Question from a reader:
I was told that while I was parked, a stone flew up and scratched the other person’s car. I wasn’t speeding, and the other party acknowledges this as well. When I called the police, they said that due to a lack of evidence, my name would not be included in the accident report, only the other person’s
name would be listed. The police informed me that depending on the insurance company, my insurance might not cover this, and I might have to pay for the repair costs myself. I couldn’t reach my insurance company since it was Sunday, and I am expecting to hear from a representative on Monday. I did not intentionally cause the damage, and since I was driving slowly, I believe the other party understands this. However, it’s impossible to prove when the scratch occurred. If my insurance does not apply, do you think I will need to pay for the repair costs based on common sense? I believe it should be covered by my insurance. I’m anxious since this is my first experience with such a situation, so I would appreciate your guidance.
Introduction
Before considering the answer to the reader’s question, let’s first clarify the situation. An accident caused by a stone while parked is something that many people might unexpectedly experience. Especially when the other party understands the situation, it can be confusing on how to handle it. In this article, we will examine this situation from legal and insurance perspectives, as well as provide insights from the entertainment industry.
Accident Situation and Legal Basics
First, it is important to recognize that the damage caused by the stone was not intentional. Generally speaking, apart from intentional damages, in the case of accidental incidents, the issues of negligence and responsibility come into play. How does the law treat accidents caused by flying stones? Under Japanese law, in the case of an accidental incident, if there is no clear negligence, it is rare to be held responsible. In this case, if the other party is aware that their car has been scratched, it is likely that their insurance company will cover the repair costs.
Considerations on Insurance Applicability
Now, as advised by the police, there is a possibility that your insurance may not apply depending on the insurance company. This depends on the terms and conditions of the insurance contract, so it cannot be generalized. However, generally speaking, if it is clear that you were not speeding or intentionally causing damage, your standard auto insurance should cover it. For example, in American auto insurance, there are often robust coverages for “no-fault accidents” or “accidental incidents.” In Japan, the concept of “no-fault liability” has been gaining traction in recent years, so there is a possibility that you could receive coverage in your case as well.
Communication with the Other Party
Next, communication with the other party is crucial. It is good news that they understand your speed and that you did not act intentionally. By speaking directly with the other party and explaining the situation to each other’s insurance companies, the likelihood of resolving the issue smoothly increases. If the other party understands your position and is cooperative, it may help avoid further trouble.
Analysis from an Industry Perspective
Now, let’s consider this situation from the perspective of the entertainment industry. In the entertainment industry, especially when accidents or troubles occur, risk management is essential. For instance, accidents that happen during film production can significantly impact insurance coverage and the cast. The production team is required to identify risks in advance and take out insurance or measures against them. Similarly, in your case, prior risk management is important. By checking the details and terms of your insurance in advance, you can prepare for potential future troubles. Additionally, in the entertainment industry, trust and communication are vital. Even if accidents or troubles arise, having a trusting relationship with the other party can lead to solutions.
Future Trends and Action Plan
Future trends include the rise of self-driving cars and improvements in safety features. While this may reduce accidental incidents, the possibility of accidents occurring will never be zero. Therefore, it is essential to regularly review your insurance and confirm the terms of your contract. Moreover, if you are interested in the entertainment industry in the future, knowledge about risk management and insurance is also important. Understanding the behind-the-scenes of the industry can be advantageous for your career.
Personal Experiences and Lessons
I have personally experienced many troubles in the entertainment industry. For example, during a project, a small accident occurred, and by quickly communicating with all involved parties, we were able to prevent further issues. In such situations, it is most important to act calmly and swiftly when an accident occurs.
Conclusion
In response to your question, it is essential to communicate calmly with the other party, ensure you confirm with your insurance company, and find the best solution. Additionally, for future risk management and accident prevention, I recommend reviewing your insurance coverage. Finally, why not share your experiences and thoughts about your situation? Other readers may also be facing similar concerns. By hearing everyone’s opinions, we can find better solutions together.
