Car Accident – Seeking Advice
I was involved in a car accident last night around 9 PM and could use some advice on how to minimize out-of-pocket expenses and determine the best next steps.
Details of the Incident:
I was stopped at a T intersection with a stop sign when another vehicle, which had its hazard lights on (possibly a DoorDash driver), was parked right next to the stop sign, obstructing my view to the right. As I inched forward and slowly entered the intersection, I was struck by an oncoming car that had the right of way. My front bumper is hanging off, and the hood is damaged, while the other vehicle sustained significant damage to both the driver’s side door and the rear door. Thankfully, no one was injured. The car with the hazards drove off quickly and didn’t stick around, but I did manage to get contact information from a witness who saw everything.
My car is currently undriveable, and tow trucks arrived on the scene. Since it was my first accident, I was a bit shaken and unsure of what to do. The tow drivers assured me that my insurance would cover their fees, so I agreed to have my car taken to their yard. In hindsight, I realize I should have called AAA instead, but I was caught off guard.
Once I got home, I filed a report with my insurance and shared all the details. I’m uncertain about fault, but I suspect I might be held responsible.
Concerns:
I’m worried about the fees racking up for storing my car at the tow yard. I expect my insurance adjuster to reach out on Monday, but I’ll be traveling for work from Monday morning until Thursday evening.
Is there any way for me to retrieve my car from the tow yard? Will my insurance help with this? Alternatively, will they cover the fees charged by the yard? Should I consider contacting AAA to arrange a tow to wherever my insurance advises, even though I’m not available to verify my ID in person right now?
I’d really appreciate any guidance on this situation! Thank you!
I’m sorry to hear about your accident; I can imagine how stressful that must be. Here are some steps you can take to help mitigate your out-of-pocket costs and navigate the situation:
Contact Your Insurance: Since you’ve already reported the incident, stay in touch with your insurance adjuster as they will guide you through the claim process. Ask them directly about coverage for towing fees and whether they can assist with getting your car out of the tow yard.
Towing Fees: Most insurance policies will cover reasonable towing fees, but it may depend on your specific plan and whether you have roadside assistance. Make sure to clarify this with the adjuster.
Getting Your Car Out of the Tow Yard: If your insurance does cover the towing fees, they may arrange for your car to be towed from the yard. However, if you need to retrieve your car before your adjuster contacts you, check with the tow yard about their procedures for releasing vehicles and whether they require the owner’s presence.
Contact the Tow Yard: Call the tow yard where your car is being held, explain your situation, and ask about the fees, how long they will hold the car, and what documentation they need for release. They might have options for handling situations where the owner cannot be present.
Witness Information: Given that you have a witness, ensure that their contact information is with your insurance and that they may provide their account of the incident if needed. Their testimony may help clarify the circumstances, especially regarding the car with the hazards.
Consider Calling Your Roadside Assistance (if applicable): If you have AAA or similar services, call them to inquire if they can assist in moving the vehicle or if they can recommend any steps you can take from a distance.
Follow Up After Your Trip: Once you return, follow up with your insurance to ensure the claim is being processed and that your vehicle gets inspected by an adjuster as soon as possible.
Stay Organized: Keep documented notes of all communications with your insurance, tow yard, and any other relevant parties. This will help if any disputes arise about fees or accountability.
Remember to stay calm and patient throughout this process, as it can be overwhelming, but knowing that you’re taking steps to address the situation will help. Good luck!