Trust is required when you hand over your car keys to a valet. But what if that trust is broken and your vehicle is damaged?
Who Is Liable for a Valet’s Negligence?
Liability for valet accidents can be complicated. Under a legal principle called respondeat superior, if a valet crashes your car, their employer—the valet service company—may be liable. Under this doctrine, employers are responsible for their employees’ actions.
In some instances, the liability may shift to the property owner, for example, a hotel or restaurant, if he did not hire a reputable valet service. If you’re unsure who’s to blame for the accident, hiring a car accident lawyer in Alaska can explain your legal options and walk you through the claims process.
For example, if the valet crashes your car while parking or bringing it back, the valet company is probably liable. However, the company may not be liable if the valet’s act is no longer part of their job, such as taking your car for a joyride. If there’s a valet driver involved in such cases, you may want to pursue a claim against him directly.
What To Do if a Valet Damaged Your Car
If a valet damages your car, act quickly to protect your rights. If you have the opportunity, report the incident to the valet company or property manager first. Photograph the damage and the scene and document everything. Request written confirmation of the report to hold people accountable.
Then, collect any relevant evidence, such as receipts or valet tickets. Many of these documents may include terms of service that handle liability. If witnesses see the incident, get their contact information and keep it on file.
You should also contact your insurance company. Valet companies usually carry liability insurance, but your insurer can help pay repair costs while deciding who’s at fault. If negotiations with the valet service stall continue, consider finally consulting an attorney. Legal experts can help you settle disputes and get fair compensation.
Common Damages From a Valet Crashing Your Car
Many types of damages can occur from a valet crash. Repair costs for damage to your vehicle, such as dents, scratches, or more serious structural damage, are often the price you will pay. These damages can be minor cosmetic repairs or much more expensive mechanical work.
You may incur additional costs that go beyond vehicle repairs. If your car is rendered temporarily unusable, you must pay for alternative transportation, whether a rental car or a rideshare. When this happens in more serious cases, your vehicle value suffers, meaning your car depreciates because of accident history.
Valet accidents that cause secondary impacts, such as damage to personal belongings in the car. If the repair takes too long, you may also become inconvenienced, stressed, and financially strained. You don’t have to foot the bill by addressing these damages alone. If negotiations with the valet service or their insurer stall, don’t hesitate to call an accident law office.
Acting quickly can help you protect your rights when a valet crashes your car. Knowing your liability and seeking legal advice prepares you for a stress-free recovery.
Featured Image Source: https://images.pexels.com/photos/3368844/pexels-photo-3368844.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&w=1260&h=750&dpr=1
