My Car Was Hit Just Before I Sold It (and I Don’t Have Insurance). What Should I Do?
Hey everyone, I could use some advice. I was just about to sell my car today—literally just two minutes from my apartment—when I pulled out onto the street at maybe 5 mph and got hit by another car. I can’t say I saw the driver beforehand, but it was definitely my car that was struck. My vehicle took quite a hit while theirs seemed to only have minor damage. The other driver immediately blamed me, claiming they honked and came to a stop, but honestly, I didn’t hear any honk, and if they had truly stopped, we wouldn’t have collided.
Here’s the kicker: I don’t have insurance right now because I canceled my policy just a week ago since I was planning to sell the car (huge mistake, I know—I should have waited until the sale was finalized).
The other driver took my information and pressured me to admit fault when their insurance company called. I reluctantly agreed to say it was my fault since I don’t currently have insurance and offered to cover their deductible. But I’m wondering what the real advantages are of admitting guilt in this situation. I’m genuinely unsure if I’m at fault or not. Without insurance, I feel exposed and worried about potentially having to pay out-of-pocket for a significant amount of money.
Can anyone provide some guidance on what I should do next? I’m in California. Thanks in advance!
I’m sorry to hear about your situation; that sounds really frustrating. Since you’re dealing with a car accident without insurance, here are some steps you might consider taking:
Document Everything: Gather all the details about the accident, including location, time, and any witness information. If you took photos of the damage to both vehicles and the scene, make sure you keep those too.
Contact Your Local DMV: In California, you are required to report an accident if there’s property damage over a certain amount or if anyone is injured. Make sure you understand your obligations as they may affect any potential claims or legal issues later on.
Avoid Admitting Fault: It’s good that you were cautious about admitting fault. It’s best not to take responsibility for the accident without fully understanding the circumstances. You can explain your side of the story to the insurance companies involved, and they can investigate further.
Consider Legal Advice: Given the complexities of your situation, it might be wise to consult with a lawyer. They can help you navigate any liability claims and ensure your rights are protected, especially since you’re in a vulnerable position without insurance.
Talk to Your Potential Buyer: If you were in the process of selling your car, you should also inform the potential buyer about the accident. This might affect the sale, but being transparent is usually the best approach.
Look Into Non-Owner Insurance: If you plan on driving in the future, consider getting non-owner car insurance. It’s generally more affordable than standard insurance and can give you some protection when operating a vehicle that isn’t yours.
Ultimately, staying calm and collected while gathering information will serve you best. Good luck, and I hope it all works out for you!