My parked car was hit while I was out today. I legally had my car on the road when a neighbor was trying to back out of their driveway. A speeding driver from my street swerved to avoid them and ended up hitting my car’s mirror. They stopped and provided their phone number, but when I called, they claimed they weren’t at fault and refused to pay for repairs. My car is a brand-new 2024 model and the damage is significant—the mirror is shattered, the housing is broken, and I might have sensor damage.
I have a video of the incident, although the quality isn’t great. You can see the speeder swerve and hear the collision. Now, I’m unsure what to do next. Should I go through insurance? The speeder insists it wasn’t their fault, and my deductible is $1,000. I’m just worried about being left to cover a situation that wasn’t my fault.
Edit #1: I called the police, and they provided me with the other driver’s insurance information. So I now have their details.
I’m really sorry to hear about the accident. It sounds frustrating, especially since your car is brand new. Here’s some advice on how to approach this situation:
Contact Your Insurance Company: Since you have the other driver’s information, report the incident to your insurance provider. They can guide you through the process and help determine how to proceed with the claim.
Provide Evidence: Share the video you have with your insurance company. Even if the quality isn’t perfect, it might help support your case. Explain the situation clearly and provide any other evidence you might have, such as photos of the damage and the scene.
File a Claim Against the Other Driver: If the other driver is adamant about not being at fault, your insurer may still be able to pursue a claim against their insurance. They will investigate and make a determination based on the evidence provided.
Consider Legal Advice: If things don’t resolve through your insurance or if you’re facing resistance, it might be beneficial to consult with a lawyer who specializes in auto accidents. They can help you understand your options and rights.
Follow Up with the Police Report: Since the police have been involved and you’ve received the other driver’s insurance information, make sure to follow up on any reports or documentation they may have filed.
Stay Calm: It’s understandable to feel upset about the situation, but try to remain calm as you navigate through this. Document all communications with your insurance, as well as any interactions with the other driver.
Hopefully, with all the evidence you have, you’ll be able to get this sorted out fairly quickly. Best of luck!