Feeling a bit lost
My wife was feeling uneasy at a shopping mall and accidentally scrapped the lower part of the rear passenger door while backing out of a space she thought was empty. I suggested she share our insurance information with the other driver. They mentioned they’d visit a repair shop and would reach out to us by Sunday or Monday. Today around 3 PM, they filed a claim with State Farm for damages to our vehicle. Now, State Farm is asking us to select a location to have OUR vehicle examined, which we weren’t prepared for.
We’re unsure about how to proceed from here. Should I contact our insurance company and inform them that we didn’t file a claim for our vehicle? Should I also mention the minor accident we had?
I would greatly appreciate any advice you can offer. Thank you!
It sounds like you’re in a bit of a tricky situation, but there are some steps you can take to clarify things. Here’s what I recommend:
Contact Your Insurance Provider: It’s important to be transparent with your insurance company. Call State Farm and let them know that you did not file a claim for your vehicle, but you were involved in a minor incident where your wife caused some minor damage to another vehicle.
Provide Details: Explain the situation clearly, including that the other party filed a claim against your insurance without your prior knowledge or consent. This could help clarify any misunderstandings with your insurance provider.
Document Everything: Keep a record of all communications, including dates and times of conversations with both your insurance and the other party. If the repair shop has been involved, take note of any correspondence there as well.
Discuss Options with Your Insurer: Ask your insurance representative about the next steps. They might recommend an approach or explain how claims involving both parties typically work.
Consider Legal Advice: If you feel unsure or overwhelmed, considering some legal advice might help. A professional can guide you through the process and help you navigate any potential liability issues.
Stay Calm: It’s normal to feel uncertain in situations like this. Take it step-by-step, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help if needed.
Good luck, and I hope everything gets resolved smoothly!