I let the valet drive my car and they caused damages. Who does the insurance company look at first? Who has to pay out for the damages? Valet liability is special insurance that valet companies use to protect themselves. Who is ultimately liable for an automobile accident will depend on quite a few factors.
Valet Causes Accident
Valet companies are hired by venues as outside contractors. These valet companies have an incentive to hire responsible drivers who are capable of driving all types of vehicles. Background checks and other checks should be used to make sure a driver is not going to be a problem.
If the valet is actually found to be at fault for damages in an accident, then the valet company will use their valet liability insurance policy and ultimately pay the claim. So, in this case, the owner of the vehicle will not need to bother their insurance company to try and cover damages.
Vehicle or Owner Causes Accident
An investigation into an accident might reveal the valet service is not at fault. The vehicle could be damaged, causing it to wreck itself regardless of the valet driving it. If the car itself is found to be the culprit in an accident, the valet service might be able to prove that their employer was set up with a faulty vehicle. The insurance claim will need to be paid out by the owner and not the valet.