Car Accident Before Selling: No Insurance – What Should I Do?
Hi everyone, I need some advice. Today, as I was just two minutes away from selling my car, I got into an accident. I was pulling out onto the street at about 5 mph when another car hit me. I didn’t see the other driver coming, but they clearly struck my vehicle. My car suffered significant damage, while theirs had only minor scratches.
Right away, the other driver insisted that it was my fault, claiming they honked and stopped. I didn’t hear any horn, and honestly, if they had stopped, I wouldn’t have been hit.
Here’s the catch: I canceled my insurance just a week ago because I was in the process of selling the car (definitely a mistake—I should have waited until after the sale). The other driver took my information and pressured me to say it was my fault when their insurance called. I agreed, since I don’t have insurance and even offered to cover their deductible. But now I’m questioning if it’s better for me to accept blame or push back.
I’m not sure if I’m truly at fault, but being uninsured makes me feel incredibly vulnerable. I’m worried about the financial repercussions and not wanting to be hit with a massive bill out of pocket. Can anyone offer guidance or share what I should do next? I’m in California. Thanks in advance!
I’m really sorry to hear about your situation; it sounds incredibly frustrating. Here are some steps you might consider taking:
Document Everything: Write down as much as you can remember about the incident, including the time, location, and any details about the other car and driver. If there are any witnesses, try to get their contact information.
Gather Evidence: If you took any photos of the damage to your car or the other vehicle, save those. They can be crucial in establishing the circumstances of the accident.
Contact Your Local Police: Since there was an accident, you might want to file a report with the local police if you haven’t already. They can create an official record which might help clarify the situation.
Consider Your Options: Since you admitted fault, it may be tricky to retract that, but you can explain the circumstances to your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or consult with a legal expert. Depending on the specifics of the collision, you may not be entirely at fault.
Discuss with a Lawyer: Given the potential implications of liability and the fact that you were uninsured, consulting with a personal injury or traffic attorney could provide clarity. They can help you understand your rights and options.
Look into Pay-As-You-Go Insurance: Since you’re in California, you might find temporary insurance options that can cover you until the sale is finalized.
Future Insurance: This experience highlights the importance of maintaining insurance even during sales. In the future, consider keeping coverage until the transfer of the title is complete.
Remember, being proactive and gathering evidence will serve you well as you navigate through this issue. Good luck, and I hope things work out for you!