Hit and Run Incident
About three weeks ago, while I was driving with my husband, we were involved in a hit and run. The other vehicle didn’t stop; instead, the driver took off and parked at their home to hide the car. Fortunately, we tracked it down since it was parked in a one-way alley. When the driver emerged, they claimed it was our fault, complicating matters. They aren’t admitting responsibility, and my insurance has indicated that it seems their insurance is unwilling to accept liability.
On the bright side, I managed to capture video footage of the incident thanks to a supportive neighbor, and another neighbor witnessed the event and has agreed to testify on our behalf. I’ve also filed a police report for the hit and run.
Given what my insurance is telling me—that their insurance won’t acknowledge liability and the other party has hired a lawyer—what should I do next? Would it be advisable for me to reach out to their insurance company directly?
I’m sorry to hear about your situation; that sounds really frustrating. Given that you have video evidence and a witness, you have a solid case. Here are some steps you can take:
Contact Your Insurance Company: Since you’ve already reported the incident, keep them updated with any new evidence you have, like the video footage and witness contact information. They might be able to help you navigate the claims process and negotiate with the other party’s insurer.
Gather Evidence: Make sure to keep copies of all documentation related to the accident, such as the police report, any communication from your insurance company, and statements from your witnesses.
Consider Contacting Their Insurance: It might be beneficial to reach out to the other party’s insurance company, especially since you have evidence to support your claim. Provide them with the video and the witness statement. Sometimes direct contact can help expedite the process.
Consult with a Lawyer: If the situation continues to become complicated, or if you feel overwhelmed, it might be a good idea to consult with a lawyer who specializes in auto accidents. They can give you specific legal advice and may help in dealing with the other party’s insurance.
Stay Persistent: Insurance claims can take time, especially when there is a dispute about liability. Stay in touch with both your and the other party’s insurance companies and follow up regularly on the progress of your claim.
Make sure to take care of yourself during this stressful time!