Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 6/3/2011

Question
The other night, a friend let me borrow her car which is in her parents name as they bought it for her 16th birthday.  While driving, unfortunately the car was scratched.  Her parents found out, and don't like me much anyway. They now want $416 to pay for it by the end of the week, which I don't have being a full-time student working part time, or they said they will call the police. My friend told me not to worry about it when I offered to pay over time, but her parents are insistent.  How responsible am I for covering the damages to the car and what legal action could they take against me for not paying on their timeline? This is from Oklahoma, if that makes any difference.

Answer
Hi Lindsay,

This is a civil matter not a criminal matter. There is nothing the police can do unless it was you who intentionally scratched the car. Then this would be vandalism and they could press charges. If the car was damaged while in your posession then you are liable for the cost to repair it. However, if you don't have the money, you don't have the money. I thing you should tell your friends parents that you are sorry the damage occured, that you feel bad and you accept responsibility. However you do not have and can not get $416.00 al at one time. Tell thanm that you are willing to make monthly payments and that is simply the best you can do. Then if need be start delivering pizza or something to earn some money and pay them off as soon as possible. This will not only clear the debt but may also help them to think a bit more possitively about you in general. Actions speak louder than words.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbuagh