Am I in trouble?
I was hit by a drunk driver who then fled the scene. I reported it to the police and hired a lawyer to help with my injuries. Initially, the at-fault driver’s insurance company denied my claim because the driver ran away.
They sent an appraiser who assessed my vehicle and declared it a total loss; it was indeed badly damaged. I had a sentimental attachment to my car, so I thought I’d check the extent of the damage myself. I removed the broken parts and put them in the trunk.
Now, after four months, the insurance company is finally willing to settle and compensate me. However, I’m worried that I may have tampered with evidence. Did I make a mistake? Can they still deny my claim for the car, even though they’ve already totaled it and agreed to pay me?
It sounds like a stressful situation, and it’s understandable to be concerned about the implications of what you did. Since the insurance company has already totaled your car and decided to settle, they may not deny your claim solely based on what you did after the initial assessment.
However, tampering with evidence can complicate things. If they discover that you removed parts or altered the condition of the car after their assessment, it could raise questions about the extent of the damage and impact their willingness to pay.
It’s essential to discuss this situation with your lawyer, as they can provide you with the best advice tailored to your specific case. Full transparency with your attorney is crucial, as they can help you navigate any potential repercussions and advocate on your behalf during the settlement process.