I recently purchased a car, and unfortunately, a friend was driving it when he hit a deer. He had a chance to brake but didn’t. This caused damage to the car, and now the wheel well is rubbing against the tire, making it impossible to drive long distances. Additionally, the car wasn’t insured. What steps can I take, and what can my friend do to rectify this situation?
Bought a car, friend drove it and hit a deer without insurance
I’m sorry to hear about the situation. Here are a few steps you both can consider:
Assess the Damage: Take a close look at the damage to determine what needs fixing. You might want to get a mechanic’s opinion on the extent of the repairs needed.
Communication: Have an open discussion with your friend about the incident. It’s important that both of you understand each other’s perspectives and take responsibility.
Repair Costs: Determine how much it will cost to repair the vehicle. If your friend is willing, he could offer to pay for the repairs or split the costs with you.
Payment Plan: If your friend is unable to pay the full amount upfront, consider setting up a payment plan to make the repayment manageable.
Document Everything: Keep a record of all discussions, agreements, and any repair estimates. This documentation can be helpful if there are future disputes.
Consider Insurance Options for the Future: Going forward, it might be a good idea for you to consider taking out insurance on the vehicle, even if it’s not required, to protect yourself from similar situations.
Talk It Out: If emotions run high, it might be helpful to bring in a neutral third party to mediate the discussion and help both of you come to a fair resolution.
Ultimately, communication is key. Work together to find a solution that’s fair for both of you.