Auto Insurance Forum

If my son has his own car and his own car insurance and has an accident, but the damages exceed his liability coverage, can the assets of the parents then be attached to cover the claim against the son?

Florae, Connecticut

According to the National Association of Independent Insurers, if your son is over 18, has his own car and own insurance, and he is no longer listed on the parents' policy, there is little chance the other driver will be able to attach the assets of the parents. Such parental liability is limited under the Vicarious Liability Limits Act, which severely restricts the liability of parents once a child reaches adulthood.

If, however, the son is still listed as a driver on the parents' insurance policy, the other driver could file a claim against the parents' insurance policy, but not against personal assets.

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