Liability for damage caused by trailer - Legal Advice

Questioner

For some time now, a trailer has been parked in front of the exit of our house belonging to a contractor who is building nearby. Because we can just about drive past it with a bit of attention to get in and out, we have left it that way. There is little space in the area and the man also has to do his job. This morning I backed out of the driveway, wasn't paying attention and scraped a large part of the side of my car against the trailer. Serious damage to the rear panel and rear door of the car as a result. Trailer is undamaged. My question: can I hold the contractor liable for something and recover damages from him?

Lawyer

In principle, you are liable for the damage when reversing because this is a special manoeuvre. The insurer can accuse you of negligence because you did not pay attention. It can also be argued that you could have asked the contractor to move the trailer. On the other hand, the contractor must not cause damage to others during construction work or allow a dangerous or damaging event to occur. There is something to be said for the latter, so I advise you to hold the contractor liable. If you want to discuss