Seeking Advice on a Complex Hit-and-Run Incident with Multiple Cars
I’m looking for some guidance regarding a complicated accident involving three vehicles in California where I was a passenger in my boyfriend’s car. About a month ago, we were on the freeway when our vehicle was struck. Two cars (Car 1 and Car 2) were racing when Car 1 collided with an uninvolved vehicle (Car 3), which then hit the right side of our car. After bouncing off us, Car 3 collided with Car 1 again, spun around, and hit us a second time. We finally stopped when our car hit the wall on the right side of the freeway, approximately 50 feet behind Car 3. Car 1 ended up stopped on the opposite side of the freeway, facing perpendicular across several lanes, while Car 2, unscathed, pulled over beside Car 1. The driver of Car 1 then exited the vehicle, entered Car 2, and fled the scene. First responders arrived around 15 minutes later to take statements from the driver of Car 3, my boyfriend, and me. All three vehicles were totaled. Unfortunately, we couldn’t get the driver’s license or insurance info, but we do have photos of the license plates for Car 1 and Car 3, along with a business card from the officer who took our statements.
My boyfriend and I have engaged a personal injury law firm to represent us. They traced the plates from Car 1 and contacted the owner’s insurance, but the insurer is refusing to accept liability because the owner claims the car was stolen. We’re still waiting to hear about Car 3’s insurance. My boyfriend has UIM (Uninsured Motorist) coverage of 15/30k for injuries and $3,500 for property damage, but no collision coverage. We’ve both sustained minor injuries and incurred some medical costs. My boyfriend had just paid off his used car worth around $12,000. For what it’s worth, I have full coverage under my own car insurance policy.
Are we in a tough spot? If the owner of Car 1 is being dishonest, can they really get away with it? I’m unsure of our next steps and what our options are. The law firm has advised us to hold off on seeking further medical treatment for now.
I’m sorry to hear about your stressful situation. It sounds complicated, but there are a few points to consider that might help clarify your options.
Insurance Claim: Since you have pictures of the license plates and eyewitness accounts, that documentation may help establish liability, especially if the owner of Car 1 is being dishonest about the vehicle being stolen. It’s crucial that your PI law firm continues to pressure the insurance company to take your claims seriously.
UIM Coverage: Your boyfriend’s underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage may come into play here. Though it has limits (15/30k for injuries and 3500 for property damage), you could potentially file a claim with his insurer if it’s established that Car 1 is liable. This is especially relevant if the other driver’s insurance cannot cover your losses.
Medical Treatment: It’s concerning that your law firm has advised to hold off on further medical treatment. It’s important to continue seeking care if you’re experiencing symptoms, as this can impact both your health and the legitimacy of your claims. Discuss this with your lawyers, as they should advocate for your medical needs as well.
Car 3’s Insurance: The driver of Car 3 may have a responsibility too, depending on their actions. If they were not at fault in causing the initial collision but suffered damages to their vehicle and injuries, their insurance could be another avenue to explore for recourse.
Legal Advice: Continue working with your current law firm to explore all avenues. If you feel unsure or uncomfortable with their advice (like delaying medical treatment), consider seeking a second opinion from another personal injury attorney.
Documentation: Keep thorough records of all medical visits, expenses, and any communications with your law firm and insurance companies. This documentation will be crucial if you need to push your case further.
While this situation is challenging, it’s not hopeless. A thorough investigation and persistence in your communications with insurers—backed by your law firm—can help you move forward. Keep advocating for your rights and well-being!