Hit and Run Incident
I was involved in a hit-and-run accident on the highway, and it’s incredibly frustrating. While driving, someone recklessly collided with my car and then sped off. I exited the highway and pulled over to assess the damage, only to find that he had managed to scratch my car and break my driver’s side mirror. As I was getting out to take photos of my vehicle and his license plate, he smashed into me again, causing significant damage to my driver’s door and fender, making it impossible to close the door.
In the chaos, I tried to call the police but struggled because I had to hold the door open to steer my car. I followed him from a distance, attempting to get a glimpse of his license plate as the traffic moved. When I turned onto the street he took, he intentionally brake-checked and collided with me once more. It’s absolutely unbelievable. This reckless individual, who is just a year younger than me, has completely totaled my work vehicle.
No police report was filed at the scene, but I’ve initiated claims with my insurance. However, it seems that this guy is not only lying to the authorities but also to both of our insurance companies. His aggressive driving and reckless behavior resulted in damage to my driver’s side, destroyed my passenger wheel, and even deployed my airbags. Unfortunately, I only have liability insurance.
I’m seeking advice on what steps I can take to pursue legal action against this person. Although I reported some minor injuries, mostly bruises and scrapes, they’re not severe. I’m worried about the impact on my job driving commercial trucks, especially since I may have to give up my career because of this reckless driver’s actions. What options do I have?
I’m really sorry to hear about what happened to you; that sounds incredibly frustrating and stressful. It’s definitely a complicated situation, especially without a police report, but there are some steps you can consider taking:
Document Everything: Since you recorded the incident on your phone, make sure you keep that footage safe. Document your injuries with photos and keep a record of all your communications regarding the incident, including claims made to your insurance and any statements from witnesses.
Consult a Lawyer: It might be worth speaking to a personal injury attorney who specializes in car accidents. They can provide you with guidance on whether you have a case and help you understand your legal options, especially since you may still have a basis for a personal injury claim even without severe injuries.
Insurance Claims: Since you have liability insurance, make sure to file a claim. They may be able to handle the situation better than you can on your own, especially if the other party is denying responsibility.
Contact the DMV: Depending on your state, you may still be able to file an accident report with the DMV. This could be beneficial for your insurance claims and any potential legal action.
Consider Filing a Lawsuit: If the damages are significant and you have evidence of their reckless driving (like your footage), you may have grounds to file a lawsuit. Your attorney can help you understand the feasibility and potential outcomes.
Focus on Your Recovery: While dealing with this situation, don’t forget to take care of your physical and mental health. Even minor injuries can take time to heal, and it’s important to prioritize your well-being.
I hope you find some resolution soon and that you can get back to doing what you love without further complications.