AboutJay K. Williams, AAI, AIP, CIC, CRM Expertise I can answer questions relating to the following coverages: personal auto; homeowners; commercial auto; commercial liability; commercial property; business income and all other property and casualty coverages.
Experience I have been in the insurance industry in Florida since 1979. I am currently the president of a Florida domestic insurance company subsidiary. I've taught continuing education classes in Florida and across the country. I am quite familiar with all coverages including Florida Condominium master policies and unit owner policies. I also specialize in agent professional liability. I have been a professional educator since 2001.
Organizations I am a member of the Florida Associaion of Insurance Agents, the state affiliate of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America.
Education/Credentials I currently carry the following professional designations:
Accredited Advisor in Insurance (AAI)
Associate in Insurance Production (AIP)
Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC)
Certified Risk Manager (CRM)
About a month ago my car randomly caught fire while parked in the parking lot behind my apartment. I was not carrying insurance on the car because I am moving out of state soon (at the end of this month), I hardly drove it, and I was putting it up for sale.
However the fire caused some damage to the apartment building; damages to the outside storm windows, and the brick needed a good cleaning.
I haven’t claimed any responsibility for the damages because it was a random event and I don’t think I am necessarily liable. However today I received a court notice indicating that my landlord is suing me for the damages to the building. Since I am moving before the court date I offered to settle for the price of my plane ticket back and my security deposit. However, my landlord turned down that offer.
Do you think I am liable? Will this be a legal issue of negligence ? Do you think the terms of the lease will be the defining legal point ?
Thanks for any insight.
Answer Hi Aaron,
Sorry for the delay in my response. I was out of town and did not have internet access.
In my personal opinion, you are not liable. However, I am not an attorney so I am not qualified to really answer that question.
You should contact your insurance carrier for your auto liability so that they can provide protection for you. If you do not have liability coverage, then you should contact an attorney immediately.
