Looking for advice regarding a minor auto accident
I was recently involved in a minor car accident in California where both of us attempted to merge into the same lane at the same time, resulting in a scratch on the other person’s car while my vehicle sustained barely any damage. The mark on my car was so small I had trouble even locating it, whereas the other car had a noticeable dent and scratch on the door.
After the collision, I checked to ensure he and his family were alright, we exchanged information including insurance details, and agreed to try to settle the matter privately. Given the minimal damage to my vehicle, I asked him to provide a quote for the repairs needed on his car.
However, two days later, he hasn’t responded to my messages. I also discovered that the insurance information he provided was expired and not even in his name! I informed my insurance company, GEICO, about the incident, and they advised me that if we’re proceeding with an out-of-pocket settlement, I don’t need to file a claim just yet. Given the minor damage to my car, I don’t plan on having any repairs done. My main concern is addressing the damage to his vehicle.
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Should I just wait for him to send me a quote? If he provides a quote that seems too high, is filing a claim with my insurance the best course of action?
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What should I do if he continues to be unresponsive? Should I take any steps, or just wait?
This is my first accident in 12 years of driving, and I want to ensure I handle everything correctly and protect myself. After all, that’s why I have insurance, right?
It’s understandable to feel uncertain after an accident, especially with this being your first one in over a decade. Here’s some advice regarding your situation:
Communication: Since you’ve already reached out and he hasn’t responded, it’s reasonable to wait a bit longer. People can be slow to act after accidents for a variety of reasons. If you still don’t hear back in a week or so, you might consider sending a follow-up message.
Handling Quotes: If he does get back to you with a quote that seems high or unreasonable, you can definitely file a claim with your insurance at that point. They can help assess the situation and negotiate on your behalf if necessary.
Non-responsive Party: If he continues to be MIA and you’re not able to reach him, it’s best to document everything (like the text messages and details of the accident) for your records. You might consider keeping your insurance informed about the situation. They can advise you on the best steps moving forward, which could include filing a claim if necessary.
Insurance: And yes, you’re absolutely right about having insurance to protect yourself. Should any complications arise, like the other driver trying to file a claim against you or if there are any unreported injuries, your insurance will be valuable.
Final Note: Remember to keep all your documentation organized—notes from the accident, correspondence, and any photos you took. This might be useful for your records or if you need to escalate things.
It seems like you handled the situation well so far, prioritizing safety and open communication. Just stay patient and keep an eye on it!