Hit-and-Run Incident
I was recently involved in a hit-and-run accident on the highway. Some reckless driver clipped my car and then took off. After pulling over to assess the damage—his actions had left my car significantly scratched and had broken my driver’s side mirror—I got out to document the incident. Just as I was starting to take pictures of my car and his license plate, he crashed into me again while I was literally standing outside my vehicle, causing further damage to my driver’s door and fender, leaving it unable to close.
I tried to call the police, but it was tricky since I had to hold the door open and steer my car at the same time. I followed him at a distance, hoping to get the plate number despite the traffic moving quickly. When he turned onto a side street, he brake-checked and crashed into me again on purpose. It’s unbelievable. My car, which I rely on for work, is now totaled, and the driver responsible is only a year younger than me.
No police report was filed, but I did manage to submit insurance claims. It seems they are not being truthful with the police, and I suspect they’re also lying to both their insurance and mine. They were driving aggressively—speeding off the highway ramp, scraping the side of my car, damaging my driver’s side door, ruining my passenger wheel, and deploying my airbags. Unfortunately, I only have liability insurance.
Now I’m wondering what steps I can take to sue this driver, especially since I don’t have any serious injuries to report. I mentioned having some bruises and scars, but it’s nothing extreme. I’ve documented everything on my phone after the incident, showing that the other driver exited his vehicle unscathed. As someone who drives commercial trucks, I’d be devastated if I had to give up my career due to someone else’s reckless behavior. What options do I have?
I’m really sorry to hear about your experience—that sounds incredibly frustrating and stressful. It’s important to know that you’re not alone in dealing with this type of situation, and there are steps you can take. Here are some suggestions:
Document Everything: Since you recorded the incident on your phone, make sure to save those records. Document your car’s damages with photos, and keep a record of any conversations you have with insurance companies.
File a Police Report: Even though you didn’t file a report at the time of the accident, you can still report it. Contact your local police department to see if they can file a report based on the circumstances.
Insurance Claims: Continue to work with your insurance company. Since you only have liability insurance, your coverage might not pay for your damages, but they can assist you in pursuing a claim against the other driver’s insurance.
Seek Legal Advice: Given the circumstances, talking to a personal injury lawyer might be beneficial. They can help evaluate your situation and advise you on the potential for a lawsuit, even if you don’t have serious injuries.
Investigate Medical Documentation: It’s important to document any injuries you sustained, no matter how minor they may appear. This includes visiting a doctor for an evaluation of your bruising and scars—having a medical record can support your case.
Focus on Future Impact: Since you drive commercial trucks for work, you should emphasize how this accident impacts your ability to work. Any financial losses from unable to drive due to damages could be part of your claim.
Stay Calm and Persistent: Legal processes can be long and frustrating, but staying organized and persistent will help you through the process.
It’s understandable that you’re concerned about your career and the repercussions of this accident. Taking these steps can help you navigate the aftermath. Good luck, and I hope you get the resolution you deserve!