Question from a reader:
I’m worried about riding in a friend’s car. Should I avoid getting in a car that belongs to a friend who is not the owner? If I absolutely have to ride in it for work reasons, who would be responsible if an accident occurred? I feel anxious thinking about the worst-case scenario.

Legal Perspective on Riding in a
Friend’s Car

Hello everyone. Today, I want to talk about a somewhat serious topic: the concerns surrounding “riding in a friend’s car.” This is something that many people might think about at least once. Especially when you have to ride in a friend’s car for work or urgent matters, the anxiety can increase. I remember feeling uneasy about riding in a friend’s car in the past, so I completely understand your feelings. Today, I want to address this issue from a legal perspective to help alleviate your concerns.

Is There a Risk in Riding in a Friend’s Car?

First of all, there are risks associated with riding in a friend’s car. Specifically, if an accident occurs, who is responsible? Generally, the driver is often held responsible for the accident, but the vehicle owner may also bear some responsibility. I recall a time when I rode in a friend’s car. He was a very trustworthy friend, and I got in casually, thinking, “It’ll be fine; we won’t have an accident.” However, at one moment, I missed a traffic signal, and when he slammed on the brakes, we made contact with the car behind us. Fortunately, it didn’t lead to a major accident, but it made me start to worry about how my friend’s car insurance would work.

Responsibility in the Event of an Accident

So, what happens if an accident actually occurs? Under Japanese law, if the driver is the cause of the accident, that driver primarily bears the responsibility. However, remember that the vehicle owner may also have some responsibility. This is known as “vicarious liability,” which can apply if the vehicle was driven without permission or if the owner intentionally allowed the driving. For example, if riding in a friend’s car is based on a reasonable cause (like an urgent work matter), the responsibility can become a bit more complex. If the friend driving causes an accident, the driver’s responsibility will be primary, but if the friend had not properly maintained the vehicle, the owner’s responsibility might also come into question.

The Importance of Insurance

At this point, the importance of auto insurance comes into play. Before riding in a friend’s car, it is crucial to check what kind of insurance your friend has. Depending on the type of insurance, there may be no coverage for carrying passengers, or the compensation in case of an accident could vary significantly. I had heard that my friend had solid insurance on his car, but I was surprised to learn that “a special option is required when carrying others.” By confirming these details in advance, you can feel more secure in case of an unexpected accident.

Mindset to Avoid Accidents

So, what can you do to avoid accidents? First and foremost, the most important thing is to “stay focused while driving.” Even if you are not the driver when riding in a friend’s car, it is essential to pay attention to your surroundings. If the driver becomes distracted, the risk of an accident increases. Additionally, even if it’s a trustworthy friend, if they lack confidence in their driving or are not feeling well, it’s wise to ask them not to drive. Personally, if I notice my friend’s face looking pale or if they seem anxious while driving, I immediately suggest, “Shall I take over driving?” Acting with that level of care can help reduce the risk of accidents.

In Conclusion

Riding in a friend’s car may sometimes be unavoidable. However, by thoroughly understanding the risks and making the necessary checks, you can alleviate some of your anxiety. Furthermore, having a solid understanding of the responsibilities in the event of an accident can prepare you for any unforeseen circumstances. If you are considering riding in a friend’s car while reading this blog, please keep these points in mind. The key is to think about what you should do to protect yourself. Drive safely and enjoy your ride! Well then, see you in the next blog!