So, earlier today, I got hit by a guy who was either on his phone or just not paying attention at a stop sign. I was waiting to make a left turn, and he ran into me with his big truck. My back is already feeling a bit sore, and my car’s bumper is dented with some scratches on the trunk.
Right after, he tried to convince me not to go through insurance, saying he’d take care of it and fix everything himself. I stayed calm but insisted on getting his insurance info just in case. He kept pushing the idea that my car is old, so why bother going through insurance, but I told him I’d see after getting an estimate. He was driving a company truck, and I don’t want him to lose his job, even though he was kind of rude. I’m worried that he might not follow through, especially since I didn’t report the accident immediately. What would you do in this situation?
Edit additional info: He knows where I live, so I’m also a bit worried that if he gets fired, he might retaliate or do something.
First thing, take some Advil. Then, call your insurance company. Relying on him to pay out of pocket usually doesn’t go well. He hit you, so it’s not your fault, and it’s his responsibility to sort this out.
File a claim with your insurance and let them handle it. Did you take any photos at the scene? Photos of both cars and his info are really important. Insurance follows the vehicle, not just the driver, so it’s crucial to have the license plate number of his truck.
@Whitney
I was so shaken up, I forgot to get his plate, but I know where he lives, and I can easily find the truck again. Also, I just realized the insurance he gave me is for his personal car, not the company truck he was driving.
@kim
You need to get the details for the truck he was actually driving. Try to get that info as soon as possible before he starts denying anything happened. Go ahead and file the claim with your insurance and let them track things down.
@kim
Looks like he gave you the wrong info. Do you remember the name of the company on the truck? If you or a friend can safely do it, try to get a photo of it, including the name and license plate.
Haven said: @kim
Looks like he gave you the wrong info. Do you remember the name of the company on the truck? If you or a friend can safely do it, try to get a photo of it, including the name and license plate.
Yes, I remember the company name on the truck. I’ll try to get that info.
@kim
He’s already been dishonest with you. I get that it’s scary, but if your back is already sore, it’s probably going to feel worse tomorrow. Consider talking to the police and definitely call your insurance company in the morning. I didn’t catch which state you’re in, but some have no-fault insurance with PIP (personal injury protection), while others don’t.
kim said: @Haven
Sorry, I’m not familiar with what no-fault with PIP means?
Hope you’re feeling better! PIP, or personal injury protection, covers your medical costs no matter who’s at fault. In some states, it can also cover lost wages. Other states have liability insurance, where the at-fault driver’s insurance pays for damages, including medical expenses. Some policies also have ‘med pay,’ which covers a set amount for medical expenses regardless of fault.
Insurance can get complicated, so it’s a good time to review your coverage with your agent. Make sure you understand things like uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage and your liability limits.