Accused of Causing a Car Accident

[cjm]

My question involves an injury that occurred in the state of: Texas

Hi. My dad just recieved a "lawyer's letter" today and is sued for the cause of the car accident but wasn't the driver. Here's what happend. On the 16th Nov of last year, my former friend, dad, and I, were on a highway. My former friend Victor was the driver driving my dad's car. When Victor attempted to change lane, a truck that was on the next lane that we were going to, panic and swerved hitting the next SUV(the plaintiff) behind him. Victor must have changed lane sharply near the truck behind us. The truck then chased us side by side forcing us to pull over. The SUV then followed. We got down, no one was hurt but the damages were pretty bad. Victor was claiming that he did not see the truck behind us on the next lane. Us, the driver of the truck and the SUV exchanged information. My dad then gave them his insurance information(apparently why my dad got the letter).

We all then left. Later our insurance called us to what happened. Then the next day, it seemed like nothing had happened and that maybe we were off the hook. Now a year later we have to appear on the court next monday. We can't get a hold of Victor since we haven't made any contact after the incedent. Can't find him anywhere. I do however have his address to his house which is about 20 miles away. We are now stressing about what will happen to my dad.

My questions are, how will we explain that my dad was not the driver and that it was Victor who really caused the accident? Will the home address help? The driver of the truck witnessed that my dad wasn't driving, so that will probably help. Please we need some advice. Thanks.

[That Guy]

Your dad needs to contact his insurer and advise them that he's received a letter from the other party.

[Betty3]

Agree, your Dad needs to inform his ins. co. of the letter & let them handle it/go from there.

[Who'sThatGuy]

If Victor doesn't have any assets then the attorney will pursue your dads insurance policy anyway.

If Victor has assets then the attorney will pursue Victor and your dads insurance policy.

You may also want to find out if in your state you can be held liable for the accident if you did not come into physical contact with any vehicle.