A safe driver is responsible for whom?

Answer 1

Like people in every circumstance his first responsibility is to himself. No one can be faulted for protecting themselves. He is responsible for operating his vehicle in a safe and lawful manner. If he cannot do that it is his responsibility not to drive. A driver is also responsible to a limited extent for the passengers he allows in his car but his insurance company may not be. A drivers Bodily Injury Liability insurance coverage will not cover his own injuries or those of passengers who are relatives or members of his household but will generally cover other passengers. Also, if a passenger is not wearing a seatbelt in most of the United States the driver is issued a citation for the offense. Drugs possesed by a passenger can implicate the driver. In a traffic accident the legal responsibility for injuries to passengers, other drivers, bystanders, property or other liability is often a question for the courts dependant upon the circumstances of the event. Or commonly, the matter is settled between insurance companies. Many states have so called no-fault insurance laws that simplify this process, though the reality of that statement is debatable. If you need to know, learn about the law in your area and read your insurance policy. This is not legal advice.