Need Advice: My Parked Car Was Damaged
Hi everyone, I need some advice. Yesterday, I walked out of my apartment to discover that my parked car had been hit. It was pushed up onto the curb and collided with the vehicle behind me. According to witnesses, the driver accelerated from a stop in the middle of the street and struck my car from about 30 yards away.
I want to extend my gratitude to my neighbors who prevented the driver from leaving and provided their information. I’ve contacted their insurance and started a claim, and I also filed a claim with my own insurance to have my car towed since I couldn’t open the door. I hope I handled everything correctly—both providers were informed that I claimed simultaneously, and no one mentioned it being an issue.
I have full coverage, but I suspect my car might be totaled. I just got it back after another accident where I was rear-ended on the freeway, and the repairs from that incident were over $9,000. This time, the damage looks worse.
I also have some Ring footage from my neighbors, and the police came to make a report and tow the other car. However, the driver left before the police arrived, even though they initially provided their info.
What should I expect moving forward? Any advice would be appreciated!
I’m really sorry to hear about your car. That sounds incredibly frustrating, especially since you just had it repaired! It sounds like you’ve taken the right steps by filing claims with both your insurance and the other driver’s insurance. Here are a few things you can expect moving forward:
Claim Process: Since both insurance companies are involved, they’ll likely communicate and investigate the claim. The fact that you have witness statements and video footage should help substantiate your case.
Assessment of Damages: Both insurers will assess the damage to your car to determine if it’s a total loss. Typically, if the repair costs exceed a certain percentage of the car’s value (often around 70-80%), they may declare it totaled.
Payout: If it is totaled, your insurance should provide you with the actual cash value (ACV) of your vehicle, minus any deductible. They’ll consider the condition of the car before the accident, mileage, and market value of similar vehicles.
Next Steps: If you haven’t already, keep a record of everything—photos of the damage, repair invoices from the previous accident, communications with insurance, and the police report. This documentation will be helpful should any disputes arise.
Rental Car: Since you have full coverage, you might be entitled to a rental car while your claim is processed. Check with your insurer about your options.
Legal Advice: If things get complicated or if the other party is being uncooperative, you might want to consider consulting with a legal expert.
Hang in there! It seems like you’re handling everything well so far. Keep us updated on how things progress!