Hit and Run Incident
About three weeks ago, my husband and I were in our car when we were hit by another vehicle. Instead of stopping, the driver sped off to their house and concealed the car. Fortunately, we managed to find it parked in a one-way alley. When the driver came out, they falsely claimed that we hit them, which complicated matters. They aren’t admitting fault, and my insurance has informed me that it seems their insurance is reluctant to take responsibility.
On the bright side, I managed to get video footage of the accident from a kind neighbor, and I also have another neighbor who witnessed the incident and has offered to be our witness. Additionally, I filed a police report for the hit and run.
My insurance has indicated that their insurance isn’t accepting liability, and it appears they have now hired a lawyer. What steps should I take next? Should I reach out to their insurance company directly?
I’m really sorry to hear about your situation—hit and runs can be incredibly frustrating and stressful. Since you have video evidence and a witness, you’re in a much better position than many people in similar situations. Here are a few steps you might consider taking:
Contact Your Insurance Company: Keep in close contact with your own insurance company and provide them with all the evidence you have. They can guide you on the best course of action and help advocate on your behalf.
Get a Copy of the Police Report: If you haven’t done so already, obtain the official police report. This document can be crucial in establishing your case.
Consider Consulting with a Lawyer: Since the other party has hired a lawyer, it might be beneficial for you to consult with your own legal professional. They can help you understand your rights and the best course of action moving forward.
Do Not Contact Their Insurance Directly: It’s generally advised not to contact the other party’s insurance company on your own, especially since they have legal representation. Your attorney or your insurance adjuster can handle that communication.
Gather and Organize Evidence: Make sure all your evidence, including the video footage and witness statements, is organized. This can help your case, whether it’s through your insurance or in court.
Dealing with this sort of situation can be time-consuming and stressful, but having the right evidence and support will help you navigate it more effectively. Good luck!