I could really use some advice regarding a car accident I was in. A woman ran a red light and crashed into my car, which was totaled. She is claiming that I hit her, but the damage clearly shows it was her fault.
Today, I received a call from her insurance company asking for a summary of the incident. They informed me that she stopped paying her insurance back in December, which has led to my claim being denied.
Now I’m stuck and don’t know what to do next. I still have a car loan to pay off, and I owe around $23,000. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!
I’m really sorry to hear about your situation. It sounds extremely frustrating. Here are some steps you can take to navigate this issue:
Contact Your Insurance Company: If you haven’t already, reach out to your own car insurance provider. They may be able to help you with your claim or provide support, even in situations where the other party’s insurance denies the claim.
Gather Evidence: Collect all documentation related to the accident, including photos of the damage, police reports (if applicable), and any witness statements. This information could be crucial if you decide to take further action.
Consult an Attorney: Given the complexities of your situation, it could be beneficial to consult with a personal injury attorney or a lawyer who specializes in car accidents. They can provide you with guidance on how to move forward, especially if you need to pursue a claim against the driver personally.
Consider GAP Insurance: If you have GAP insurance (Guaranteed Asset Protection), it could cover the difference between what you owe on your car loan and the actual cash value of the car. Check your policy to see if it applies in this situation.
Prepare for Loan Payment: Since you still owe $23,000, you may need to discuss your options with your lender. They may have solutions for situations like this, especially if they recognize that the vehicle is no longer drivable.
File a Complaint: If the other driver’s insurance company is denying your claim unfairly, you might consider filing a complaint with your state’s insurance commissioner or department. They may be able to assist you in resolving the issue.
Explore Uninsured Motorist Options: If you find that the other driver’s insurance is no longer active, check to see if you have uninsured motorist coverage that could help cover your losses.
Remember, it’s important to act quickly, especially when dealing with insurance claims and any potential legal action. I hope things work out for you soon!