Dispute Over Insurance Liability in Minor Traffic Incident: A Personal Experience
Navigating insurance claims after a vehicle incident can often be complex and frustrating. Recently, I encountered a situation where my car was involved in a minor collision within a gas station parking lot. The other driver’s insurance has assigned me 35% responsibility for the incident, despite clear evidence suggesting otherwise. I wanted to share my experience and seek advice on how to proceed.
The Incident
While driving through a gas station parking lot at a slow speed—approximately 5 miles per hour—the other vehicle reversed out of a parking space and directly into my passenger side door. The impact was minor, and I was able to review footage from the gas station security cameras, which unequivocally shows I was not at fault. Despite this evidence, the insurance company representing the other driver, State Farm, has assigned me 35% liability, leaving me with the question: what are my options?
Insurance Response and Challenges
I contacted a supervisor at State Farm to dispute the claim, but unfortunately, my efforts did not lead to a resolution. I have full coverage, including collision insurance, which affords some protection, but the apparent misassignment of liability is concerning and frustrating.
Next Steps and Advice
In situations like this, it’s crucial to understand your rights and options. Typically, you can:
– Submit the video evidence directly to your insurer and request a reevaluation of the liability determination.
– Consider formally disputing the claim through the insurance company’s appeals process.
– Seek advice from a legal professional or a consumer advocate specializing in insurance disputes.
– If necessary, file a claim with your own insurer and let them recover damages from the other driver’s insurance.
Conclusion
Being involved in even a minor traffic incident can become complicated when liability is contested. Ensure you document everything thoroughly, including videos, photos, and communication with insurers. If you find yourself in a similar situation, do not hesitate to seek professional guidance to protect your rights and obtain the appropriate resolution.
Remember, having full coverage, including collision insurance, is beneficial, but understanding how liability is determined can make all the difference in settlement outcomes.
