Hit and Run Incident
I was recently involved in a hit-and-run accident that left me frustrated and dealing with extensive car damage. While driving on the highway, another driver collided with me and sped off. I managed to pull over onto the same street to assess the damage—my car had deep scratches and my driver’s mirror was broken. As I was getting out to take pictures of my vehicle and their license plate, this reckless driver hit me again, causing even more damage by breaking my driver’s door and fender, making it impossible to close.
In the chaos, I tried to call the police for help, but I had to hold my door open while steering the car. I trailed the driver from a safe distance, attempting to gather information even as traffic was moving. Unfortunately, when I turned onto the street he took, he brake-checked and deliberately crashed into me again. This was completely outrageous and left my vehicle, which I rely on for work, totaled. To make matters worse, the driver is only a year younger than me.
No police report was filed at the scene, but I did file insurance claims. It appears they not only lied to the police but also to both their own insurance and mine. I’ve documented their aggressive driving—including speeding off the highway ramp, hitting my driver’s side, damaging my door, and destroying my passenger wheel, which even triggered my airbags. However, I only carry liability insurance.
I’m left wondering what my options are for taking legal action against this driver, especially since I don’t have any major injuries—just some bruises and scrapes. I know they probably reported injuries too, even though they emerged from the incident seemingly unscathed, and I have video evidence of everything that happened. As someone who drives commercial trucks, I’m worried about the impact this could have on my career if I’m unable to work due to someone else’s reckless behavior. What steps can I take moving forward?
I’m really sorry to hear about your situation. It sounds incredibly frustrating and stressful, especially with the implications for your job. Here are some steps you could consider taking:
Document Everything: Make sure you have all the evidence collected, including photos of the damage, any dashcam footage if you have it, and your recorded account of what happened. Keep a record of all communications and claims made with both your insurance and the other party’s.
File a Police Report: Even if you couldn’t file one at the scene, you should still contact the police department to report the incident. Explain the circumstances, including your attempts to report it previously.
Consult an Attorney: Given the circumstances, it might be beneficial to speak with a personal injury attorney who specializes in car accidents. They can help assess your case and provide guidance on the best way to proceed with a potential lawsuit.
Contact Your Insurance: Since you have liability insurance, you should definitely contact your insurer to inform them of the incident. They may be able to help you navigate the claims process and investigate the other driver’s liability.
Consider Small Claims Court: If you have documentation proving the extent of the damages and can assess a reasonable amount for your claims (including potential loss of income from your job), you might consider filing a case in small claims court. This could be an option if you wish to seek compensation without involving an attorney.
Health Documentation: Keep track of any lingering injuries and seek medical attention if you haven’t already. Having medical documentation can be crucial if you decide to pursue any claims for injury later.
Stay Calm and Persistent: The situation is stressful, but staying organized and keeping your head will help you navigate this challenging time. Follow up regularly with your insurance and any legal representation you decide to pursue.
Remember, laws can vary significantly by state, so it’s important to get specific legal advice relevant to your situation. I hope you find a resolution soon!