I need some advice.
I was on my way home when I was stopped at a stop sign and got rear-ended. While the damage isn’t severe, my truck is in bad shape and the bumper is gone. I was in shock at the time and didn’t think to call the police, especially since the driver who hit me provided his insurance policy information. (My car is a 2008 Chevy Impala.)
The next day, I took my car to the mechanic and informed the insurance company about the incident. Now, a month later, I’ve been in touch with the insurance, and they tell me they need a statement from the driver who hit me. However, he hasn’t been responsive and the insurance is having difficulty contacting him. When I reach out to him, he claims he’s been in contact with them, but it seems that’s not the case.
The insurance adjuster has already assessed my car and stated it’s a total loss.
What should I do? Is it possible for me to report this incident to the police even though it’s been a month? If everything works out and the driver admits fault, how much might the insurance company pay for my car?
I apologize for any language mistakes, as English is not my first language.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
I’m sorry to hear about your situation. Here are some steps you can take:
Contact Your Insurance Company: Even if the other driver is at fault, your own insurance can sometimes help expedite the process. Inform them about the issue with the other driver and their insurance.
Document Everything: Keep track of all communications with the other driver’s insurance, any statements received, and notes about your conversations with the other driver. This documentation can be useful in resolving the issue.
Get a Police Report: Even though it has been a month, you can still file a police report about the accident to have an official record. This may help in dealing with the insurance companies.
Consider Legal Advice: If you’re having trouble with the insurance process and the other driver isn’t cooperating, consulting with an attorney who specializes in car accidents might be beneficial. They can guide you on your rights and options.
Understand Total Loss Payments: If your vehicle is deemed a total loss, the insurance company will generally pay you the actual cash value (ACV) of the car before the accident, minus any deductibles. You can look up the value using online resources like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds to get an idea of what it may be.
Patience and Persistence: The insurance claims process can be slow, but staying persistent in communication with both insurance companies is important.
I hope this helps you navigate the situation. Good luck!