My neighbor is uncooperative with their insurance company.
Two months ago, I was rear-ended while parked on the street. The driver took responsibility and shared her insurance details. Unfortunately, due to a busy evening for my family, we didn’t file a police report at the time. Now, my neighbor hasn’t returned any calls from her insurance, and they’re close to denying the claim. What are my options? Can I still obtain a police report after the fact? Should I consider taking her to court? I do have photos from the incident and security camera footage, but my car is obscured in the video.
I’m sorry to hear about your situation; that sounds really frustrating. Here are some steps you might consider taking:
Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your own insurance. They may be able to assist you in dealing with the neighbor’s insurance and provide guidance based on your policy.
Collect Evidence: Since you have photos from the incident and a security camera video, make sure to keep those safe and organized. Document any other evidence you might have, such as witness statements or details about the incident.
Follow Up with the Neighbor: If you feel comfortable, you could try contacting your neighbor directly to remind them of the situation. Sometimes, a personal approach can be more effective in prompting a response.
Get a Police Report: You can request a copy of the police report if one exists. However, since you mentioned there wasn’t a police report filed at the time, you won’t be able to do this.
Small Claims Court: If the insurance route doesn’t work out, you might consider small claims court as an option. This would generally involve filing a claim against your neighbor, where you can present your evidence to seek compensation for the damages.
Legal Advice: Consulting with a lawyer who specializes in automotive accidents can provide you with more specific guidance on your options and how best to proceed. They can help you understand the potential implications of taking legal action.
Mediation: Sometimes, mediation can be a helpful way to resolve disputes without going to court. It can facilitate communication and hopefully bring about a resolution that works for both parties.
It’s unfortunate that you’re having to go through this, but staying persistent and organized can help you navigate the situation. Good luck!