Navigating the Insurance Reimbursement Process After a Multi-Car Accident

In December 2024, I found myself in an unfortunate situation on the highway during a dark and rainy morning. I was rear-ended by a vehicle that collided with mine after failing to stop in time. This incident not only affected my car but also caused a chain reaction that impacted two other vehicles. Despite the police report filed at the scene and assurances that the at-fault driver is fully responsible, I find myself struggling with the insurance reimbursement process— a situation compounded by delays and communication issues.

The Incident in Brief

As I was driving on an empty highway, traffic suddenly halted in front of me. I reacted promptly, braking in time. However, the car behind me was unable to do the same and collided with my rear bumper. This driver then swerved into another lane, causing a second crash with the first car in that lane. The impact resulted in a third vehicle being struck when it rotated from the force of the accident. Shockingly, the driver who initiated this chain reaction fled the scene.

Fast forward to May 2025—five months later—and the insurance claim is still unresolved. I filed claims with my insurer, GEICO, and the insurance of the at-fault driver, 21st Century. All parties involved have submitted their claims, yet progress has stalled because one of the affected vehicles is yet to be inspected.

The Challenge of Communication

The insurance adjusters have indicated that they cannot reach the driver of the third car involved in the accident, which they need for the investigation. I attempted to reach out to the owner of the second vehicle, only to discover that she was unaware her car required inspection. She, too, has since engaged a lawyer, complicating matters further.

As for the owner of the third vehicle—who, like me, is insured by GEICO—the situation is similarly frustrating. Despite my efforts to communicate through calls and messages, my attempts to connect with him have gone unanswered. The insurance adjuster continues to maintain that they are unable to contact this driver, which is critical to moving forward with the claim process.

Seeking Solutions

With the weight of these unresolved proceedings hanging over me, I am left to ponder how best to resolve this. My concern deepens as I do not have collision coverage, nor the financial means to repair my car without assurance of reimbursement from the insurance. Given that I rely on my vehicle for both work and school in New York