I accidentally rear-ended a parked car last week, and although it was a minor bump, I feel like the other driver is trying to charge me more than necessary for the damages. My car has a small mark on the rear, and the other vehicle also sustained a minor scratch. We exchanged insurance information, and I reported the incident to my insurer. They informed me that since the other car was parked, I am at fault and responsible for the damages, which seems reasonable. However, the other driver later sent me a repair estimate via WhatsApp that includes replacing the entire rear bumper and addressing other issues that don’t seem related to the incident. What can I do in this situation? Do I have any say in the matter, or should I just let the insurance companies handle the payment?
Rear ended a parked car but feels like person is making me pay more than the actual damage
It sounds like you’re in a frustrating situation, but you do have a few options to consider:
Review the Damage: If you believe the repair quote is excessive and covers more than what was actually damaged, you have the right to request a detailed breakdown of the costs. You can compare this quote to other estimates from reputable garages to see if the charges are reasonable.
Get Your Own Estimate: Consider taking your own car to a repair shop for an assessment. If they determine that the other vehicle’s damage can be repaired for a lower cost, you can present this information to the other driver or your insurance company.
Negotiate: If you find that the repair costs are inflated, you can negotiate with the other car owner. Sharing your findings from other estimates could help in reaching a more fair agreement.
Involve Your Insurance: Since you’ve already informed your insurance company, they may want to get involved. They can help evaluate the claim and determine whether the repairs are reasonable and necessary.
Document Everything: Keep records of all communications and estimates. This information will be valuable if there’s a dispute about the claim later on.
Ultimately, while you are liable for the damages, it’s fair to ensure that you are not overpaying for repairs. You have a voice in the process, and it’s worth advocating for a fair outcome.