Accident Involving a Forklift
At the beginning of this month, I experienced a peculiar accident near a grocery store in California. I stopped short, expecting the forklift to pass by, but the driver couldn’t see me due to the large blue trashcan they were transporting. Unfortunately, the forklift hit my car.
After the accident, the driver exited his vehicle and called his manager for assistance. However, before I could ask for his ID, he went into the store. At the time, I wasn’t overly concerned since I had recorded the incident on my dashcam, thinking that the store’s insurance would handle everything.
Now, more than three weeks later, I’ve reached out to the manager inquiring about their insurance and was told that he had already reported the incident. He seemed surprised that I hadn’t been contacted yet, but now I’m starting to suspect that he might have been putting on an act and that the store is trying to evade responsibility.
My dad thinks I’ve been taken advantage of, and I’m starting to believe it too. What steps should I take next?
I’m sorry to hear about your situation; that sounds really frustrating. Here are some steps you can take to address the issue:
Review Your Dashcam Footage: Make sure to keep the video evidence secure. This will be crucial in proving what happened if needed.
Follow Up with the Store: Call the manager again and ask for a formal report or documentation confirming that the incident has been reported to their insurance. If you can, request a copy of the incident report.
Contact the Insurance Company: If the store has provided you with insurance information, reach out to their insurance company directly. Provide them with all the details and your recorded evidence.
Keep Records: Document every conversation you have with the store and any insurance representatives. Note down dates, times, and names for your records.
Consider Your Options: If you don’t receive a response or if the store’s insurance denies your claim, you might want to consult with a legal professional who specializes in accidents or personal injury. They can guide you on your rights and potential next steps.
File a Claim: If the situation doesn’t resolve and the store isn’t cooperative, you may need to file a claim with your own auto insurance to cover any damages. Be sure to inform them about the incident and provide the footage.
Seek Legal Advice: If necessary, consider contacting a lawyer who can help you understand your options and whether you have a case for any damages or further action.
Remember, staying calm and organized about the details will help you as you navigate this situation. Good luck!