Our Nanny drives a car that is owned by us. We also insure the car and her as the primary driver. Off hours, she was in a minor fender bender. No kids were in the car and fortunately no one was hurt.
The damage to the other car is less than $2,000. We may or may not submit this as a claim to our insurance. Should we hold her responsible for the cost of the accident? |
It's up to you. She may leave. Do you care? You need to consider your priorities. |
We have had nannies and au pairs, and we put everything in the handbook or contract. What did you all discuss when you gave her the car? Be glad it wasn't worse. |
IMO she should only be held responsible for whatever the deductible is, as that's all she'd be paying if the claim were submitted. |
What are the details of the incident? That would matter. Was she on the phone? I am shocked when I hear of the mom talking with nanny on the phone when she's driving. |
This is a tricky one b/c it was off hours.
FWIW, our former nanny got into 2 (expensive) but minor fender benders with our car (we provided one for transporting the kids only during work hours & of course insured it, etc.). Cost us $700 the first time and $2000 the second time. We didn't submit to our insurance either time, nor did we have our nanny pay for it. But we weren't horribly please either (especially the second time). After the SECOND time, we told her she was on the hook for the deductible for any other accidents. I think if you haven't discussed this yet, you should pay and then be very clear what happens and who pays should this happen again. |
PP, what does your handbook say for accidents? |
We would probably fix the cars involved and have the nanny stop using it in her off hours. My nanny could not afford to pay for a $2,000 repair, let alone a $200 one. We have a nanny car but it is only used to transport our children. |
Was she at fault? |
If its on their own time, they pay the $500 deductible if we get it fixed or have to report it to insurance. We're not going to worry about minor dings and such though. |
OP, the ball is in your court. If she was NOT on the clock and NOT running any errands for you then it's up to you whether you think she should pay. |
And possibly already be onto her next gig. |
Making her pay the full 2,000 wouldn't be ok since if you decide to not submit it to insurance. It's not her fault you don't want to go that route. I would definitely ask for the $500 deductible that insurance would have asked for. |
Unless nanny is paid a super livable wage, I'll bet she moves on if she's asked to pay. |
I agree with this. If you decide not to submit the accident to your insurance that is your decision, and she should not be penalized for it. |