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Lending Motorcycle to a friend- my liability

Asked about 3 years ago - Atlanta, GA

A friend of mine from Europe will be coming over to the US to do a motorcycle tour with me. I am lending him one of my two bikes to use, I will ride the other.
He has a valid motorcycle license in his country of residence. Both bikes are insured, the bike he will ride has liability insurance only right now.

My question is what kind of liability I am opening myself up to by letting him ride my bike? If he is involved in an accident where he is at fault, could I be liable on some level for the damages caused by him because he is riding my bike?

What would be a good way to limit my liability? Have him get his own insurance?

Thanks for your insights.

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Attorney answers (1)

Steven I. Goldman

Reputation Level 9

Answered about 3 years ago. Car / Auto Accident Lawyer in Atlanta, GA.

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You will not be personally liable for any negligence on the part of your friend as long as you have no reason to believe that he is an unsafe rider. Your coverage will cover him as a permissive user of your motorcycle.

One note of caution: you should check with your insurance company to make sure your friend will be covered with his foreign motorcycle license. Some insurance policies require that permissive users have a valid driver’s license. You want to make sure his license is considered "valid" by your insurance company. This is really more an issue for your friend as you would not become personally liable for his negligence.

On a personal note, I ride myself. Feel free to contact me directly if you have any additional questions. Enjoy and be careful out there.

Steve

Steven I. Goldman
GOLDMAN & ASSOCIATES
The Equitable Building - Suite 2020
100 Peachtree Street, N.W.
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 577-9555
(404) 577-9556 (fax)
Steve@GoldmanLawAtlanta.com
www.GoldmanLawAtlanta.com

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