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What happens if you crash a driving instructor's car?

While taking my driving lessons, I accidentally wrecked my instructor’s car. I obviously don’t have my license yet, so I’m not sure what to do and how this will affect my ability to eventually get my license. What happens if a driver’s ed student gets into an accident?

avatar
Rob Shapiro · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
I’m sorry to hear that! Remember, safe driving takes practice, so I hope you stick with it.
If you crash a driving instructor’s car, how it’s handled will depend on where you live. That’s because each state has its own laws surrounding student drivers and unlicensed drivers.
In an accident caused by a driving school vehicle where an unlicensed driver was behind the wheel, the following parties can be held at fault:
  • The student driver
  • The instructor
  • The driving school or program and its employees
Because insurance coverage follows the car, most driving schools’ car insurance extends protection to student drivers. And most states recognize that student drivers are inexperienced and likely to make some mistakes.
This doesn’t mean that negligence is acceptable, though. Two things every student driver should do are:
  • Make sure that your instructor is paying attention at all times
  • Ask questions if you are unsure of anything
Accidents happen, so try not to let this incident get you down. Once you are licensed, make sure that you have
car insurance
that will protect you going forward.
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