Seeking advice about an accident I had today:
This morning, while heading to work, I was in the right lane approaching an intersection when I noticed a car in the left lane with their turn signal on, preparing to make a left turn. As I crossed into the intersection, the driver made an unexpected maneuver across two lanes and sideswiped me on my left side, directly hitting my door. Despite the impact, I continued driving but then pulled over to assess the situation.
The driver exited his vehicle and admitted that he was at fault since he struck the side of my car. There was a body shop located right at the intersection, so I asked him how he wanted to proceed—either through insurance or out of pocket. He opted to settle privately and asked what I thought was a fair amount. I suggested $2,500, but he felt that was too high. I proposed we consult the body shop for an estimate to get a clearer picture of the repair costs. The shop quoted a repair cost of between $4,000 and $5,000. The other driver then negotiated with me and offered to pay $2,000, which we agreed upon. He sent the payment to my brother via Venmo since I don’t use the app.
However, several hours later, the driver managed to get my number and called me, claiming I had overcharged him and that his body shop could fix the damage for only $800. I explained that I didn’t want to use his mechanic because I didn’t know or trust him, and suggested that if he was unhappy, we could go through insurance instead. He continued to insist that I was in the wrong.
What should I do now? I understand many may suggest going through insurance, which I initially wanted to avoid to prevent my premiums from rising. I would appreciate any guidance on how to handle this situation. Thank you!
It sounds like a really frustrating situation, and I’m sorry you’re dealing with this. Here’s a breakdown of what you might consider doing moving forward:
Document Everything: Make sure you have all the details of the accident documented. This includes taking photos of the damage, the scene, and any contacts you had with the other driver. If you haven’t already, write down everything that happened while it’s still fresh in your mind.
Review the Agreement: Since you and the other driver agreed on $2,000 initially, that should stand as the agreed-upon amount. You have a right to hold him accountable for that agreement, especially since he initiated the negotiation.
Communicate Clearly: If he continues to harass you, try to remain calm and reiterate that you’ve already settled on the amount. Let him know that you’re not comfortable using his mechanic and remind him that you have his payment. You could also consider sending a polite but firm message through text or email, stating your position in writing.
Consider Insurance: While you’re concerned about your rates going up, insurance can provide more security in a dispute like this. If he continues to pressure you or if there are further complications, contacting your insurance company may be the safest route. They can help mediate the situation and handle the claim.
Consult with a Professional: If things escalate or he starts to make threats or demands that make you uncomfortable, you might want to consult with a legal professional. They can guide you on your rights and what steps you can take.
Don’t Engage Further: If he continues to contact you and it’s causing stress, consider blocking his number to avoid further harassment. You can always communicate through a legal representative or insurance if necessary.
It’s a tough situation, but do what feels right for you and prioritize your peace of mind. Good luck, and I hope it gets resolved soon!