Looking for advice after an accident today
This morning, while heading to work, I was in the right lane approaching an intersection when a driver in the left lane, signaling for a left turn, suddenly cut across two lanes and collided with my left side, hitting my door. After the collision, I pulled over, and the other driver admitted fault since he hit me on the side. We were near a body shop, so I asked him if he wanted to go through insurance or settle privately. He opted to pay out of pocket. I proposed $2,500 for the repairs, which he felt was too high. To find a reasonable estimate, we asked the body shop, and they quoted a repair cost of $4,000 to $5,000. Eventually, we negotiated to $2,000, and he sent my brother that amount via Venmo since I don’t have the app.
However, a few hours later, the driver called me claiming he felt ripped off and that his body shop could fix the damage for only $800. I expressed that I didn’t want to use his mechanic and preferred to stick with our agreement. He has since been persistently contacting me, insisting it’s not fair.
What should I do now? I know the common advice is to go through insurance, but I was hoping to avoid that to keep my rates down. What are my options? Thanks for any guidance you can offer!
It sounds like you’re in a tough situation, and it’s understandable to want to avoid going through insurance if possible. Here are some steps you might consider:
Documentation: Make sure to keep a record of everything that happened, including photos of the damage, the details of the accident, and any communications you’ve had with the other driver. If you haven’t already, write down all the details while they’re still fresh in your mind.
Review the Agreement: You agreed on a certain amount ($2,000) after he accepted fault. If you have any written evidence of this agreement (like text messages, emails, or a written note), that can help solidify your position.
Stay Calm: It’s crucial to keep the communication professional and calm, even if the other party is being confrontational. Try to avoid escalating the situation.
Insurance Option: If the other driver continues to pressure you or you feel uncomfortable with the situation, it might be best to inform your insurance company about the accident. They can guide you on what steps to take, even if you ultimately decide not to file a claim. Just be aware that this could potentially affect your premium.
Consider Mediation: If you’re open to it, suggest bringing in a neutral third party to mediate the discussion between you and the other driver to help reach a fair resolution.
Legal Advice: If the situation escalates further or you start feeling threatened, it might be worth consulting with a legal professional who specializes in car accidents. They can provide guidance based on the specifics of your case.
Trust Your Gut: If you feel uneasy about the other driver’s claims or their mechanic, trust your instincts. You have every right to handle your car repairs through a body shop of your choice.
In the end, prioritize your safety and peace of mind. If the negotiation continues to be a source of stress, going through insurance might indeed end up being the best option. Good luck!