Am I in trouble?
I’m 19, and honestly, I’m feeling pretty lost right now. I could really use some solid advice.
I let my friend use my car to drive some older friends around at our main state college. It’s a busy area with a lot of people who shouldn’t be driving. So, my friend was at a stop sign, waiting to go straight, when an SUV, which had its right turn signal on, unexpectedly slammed into the front of my driver’s side. From what I understand, the car was coming from my car’s left side, and my friend had been stationary the entire time.
The driver turned out to be drunk and got arrested. I heard he tried to drive away, but the cops managed to corner him and force him into a parking lot. Now, I’m waiting 2-3 business days for the police report as requested by the officers, but I’m worried about what happens next.
I’m a freshman in college, and soon I’ll have to pay $1300 a month for my car payment, house rent, and fraternity dues, all while trying to make ends meet. What should I do now? Is my insurance going to cause me more problems? Am I going to get compensated for this accident? The guy didn’t seem to have much money, and he has a criminal record. His bond was $1000, which seems low to me. I also have pictures of the damage.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
It sounds like you’re going through a really tough situation, but it’s good that you’re staying proactive about it. Here are some steps you can take to navigate this:
Stay Calm and Gather Information: It’s important to remain calm while you wait for the police report. Make sure you have all your evidence gathered, including the photos you mentioned, any witness statements, and your friend’s account of what happened.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Reach out to your insurance agent as soon as you can, even if the police report isn’t ready yet. Explain the situation and provide them with all the information you have. Since your friend was driving your car, your insurance might cover the damage, depending on your policy.
Determine Your Coverage: Check what your insurance policy covers in terms of accidents involving uninsured or underinsured drivers. Since the other driver appears to have limited financial resources, this could be important.
Follow Up on the Police Report: As you wait for the report, make sure you know how to access it once it’s available. This document will be crucial for your insurance claim and could help clarify the situation regarding liability.
Consult a Legal Professional: If you’re uncertain about your responsibilities and potential liabilities, it might be wise to talk to a lawyer. They can provide guidance on how to handle the situation, especially if you’re concerned about legal implications.
Financial Planning: Given the financial strain you’re anticipating, consider creating a budget to manage your expenses more effectively. Look for ways to cut down on costs or find part-time work if possible.
Reach Out for Help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to talk to friends, family, or even campus resources about what you’re going through. They might offer support or guidance you hadn’t considered.
Stay Informed About Your Rights: Research your rights as a car owner in your state regarding accidents and insurance claims. Knowing what you’re entitled to can help you feel more empowered to advocate for yourself.
You’re not alone in this, and while it may feel daunting right now, taking these steps can help you navigate the situation more effectively.