I caused some damage
Who pays when you break something or hurt someone?
What the law says
- Anyone who causes damage to someone else through their fault must make it good (Art. 1382).
- You are also responsible for your negligence or carelessness (Art. 1383).
- You are responsible for things in your care and for the people you answer for (Art. 1384).
- Parents are jointly responsible for damage caused by their minor children living with them, unless they prove they could not prevent it (Art. 1384).
Watch out for
- Family liability insurance often covers these cases: check your policy before paying.
Who can help
Official source : Code civil (version du 26.12.2025) · Checked on 21.10.2026