What Happens If You Hit a Building with Your Car?

Crashing into a building can lead to legal penalties, financial liability, and insurance disputes. While these accidents may seem rare, they occur more frequently than expected in Indiana, often due to factors such as distracted driving, medical emergencies, and mechanical failures. 

Beyond vehicle damage, these crashes can result in structural harm and potential lawsuits. Whether the accident involves a residential home, a business, or government property, an Indiana car accident lawyer can help drivers understand their legal responsibilities and defend against excessive liability claims. Here’s what you need to know:

Who Is Liable If You Crash Into a Building?

Determining liability in these cases depends on the cause of the crash and whether negligence (failing to exercise reasonable care while driving) played a role. Common liable parties include:

• The driver: If the crash resulted from reckless driving, speeding, or impairment, the driver’s auto insurance typically covers property damage.
• Vehicle manufacturers or mechanics: If a mechanical failure caused the accident, the vehicle’s manufacturer or a negligent mechanic may share responsibility.
• Government entities: If poor road conditions, missing traffic signals, or faulty infrastructure contributed to the crash, the government entity in charge of road maintenance may be liable.

Indiana follows a modified comparative fault system, meaning compensation is reduced by the driver’s percentage of fault (as long as they’re less than 50% at fault). At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we focus on gathering evidence, challenging fault assessments, and negotiating with insurers to minimize your assigned liability, if any.

Does Car Insurance Cover Hitting a Building?

Car insurance may cover property damage from hitting a building, but coverage depends on the driver’s insurance policy and the building owner’s insurance. Not all policies include the same protections, so it’s important to understand which types of coverage apply:

• Property damage liability: Required in Indiana, this covers damage to another person’s property, including buildings. However, it only pays up to the policy’s coverage limit.
• Collision coverage: Optional insurance that covers repairs to the driver’s own vehicle after a crash, regardless of fault.
• Comprehensive coverage: This applies when accidents result from non-collision events, like medical emergencies or environmental hazards, depending on the policy.
• Business or homeowner’s insurance: If the building owner has insurance, it may cover structural damage, but they could still pursue a claim against the driver.

Indiana Code § 27-7-5-3 allows drivers to file a claim with their own insurance for vehicle damage caused by an uninsured driver. However, this only covers vehicle damage, not structural repairs. So, if an uninsured driver crashes into a building, the building owner would need to rely on their own property insurance or take legal action against the at-fault driver.

What Are the Legal Consequences of Hitting a Building?

Crashing into a building can lead to several legal repercussions for the driver, including:

• Traffic violations: Operating a vehicle recklessly, such as driving at an unreasonably high speed, can result in a Class B misdemeanor in Indiana, carrying penalties of up to 180 days in jail and fines up to $1,000.
• DUI penalties: If the driver is found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they may face Class C misdemeanor charges, which can lead to up to 60 days in jail and fines reaching $500.
• Hit-and-run charges: Leaving the scene of an accident without reporting it is a serious offense. In Indiana, this can be charged as a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines up to $5,000.
• Civil liability: Beyond criminal charges, building owners may file civil lawsuits against the driver to recover damages not covered by insurance, potentially leading to significant financial liabilities.

Steps to Take After Crashing Into a Building

Following these steps after a car accident in Indiana to protect your legal rights:

1. Check for injuries: Call 911 if anyone is hurt.
2. Report the accident: Notify local law enforcement to get an official police report.
3. Exchange information: Provide insurance and contact details to the property owner.
4. Take photos: Document vehicle and structural damage for insurance claims.
5. Contact an attorney: Seek legal guidance if facing liability or criminal charges.

What If You Hit a Business or Government Building?

The liability and insurance process differs based on property type:

• Commercial property: Business owners typically have commercial insurance policies and may file claims for lost revenue, leading to larger claims or potential lawsuits.
• Government property: Damaging public infrastructure (e.g., post offices, city halls, or roads) can lead to fines or legal action from state or federal authorities.

Crashing into commercial or government property can lead to more complex legal battles, as businesses and the state have greater resources to pursue claims or lawsuits. Christie Farrell Lee & Bell can help you navigate these high-stakes cases, protecting your rights and ensuring fair treatment against powerful entities.

How Much Can Property Damage Cost in a Car Accident?

The cost of repairs varies based on severity:

• Minor damage: Scrapes, dents, or broken signs ($500–$5,000).
• Moderate damage: Broken windows, doors, or exterior walls ($5,000–$20,000).
• Severe damage: Structural integrity compromised, requiring major repairs or demolition ($50,000+).
• Business losses: If a business must close due to damage, the driver may be liable for lost revenue.

What If the Building Collapse Causes Injuries or Fatalities?

If a building collapses from a crash and causes injuries or fatalities, the driver could face multiple claims from different parties. 

Injured pedestrians, building occupants, and the property owner may each file separate personal injury lawsuits or insurance claims against the driver, who could become responsible for medical expenses, lost wages, wrongful death, and more.

Furthermore, if the accident involved negligence, intoxication, or reckless driving, criminal charges may apply. These cases are highly complex, and drivers facing multiple claims should seek legal representation to navigate liability and potential financial consequences.

When to Contact a Car Accident Lawyer

In summary, seeking legal assistance is necessary when:

• Insurance denies coverage or disputes liability.
• Facing criminal charges, lawsuits, or financial damages.
• The accident involved injuries, fatalities, or government property.

Get Legal Help After a Car Crash Involving Property Damage

If you’ve been involved in a car accident that caused property damage, legal representation can help protect your rights and minimize financial losses. With over 30 years of experience in Indiana, Christie Farrell Lee & Bell provides skilled legal counsel to drivers facing liability issues.

Contact us today to schedule a meeting and discuss your case.