Dealing with People At Fault Who Refuse to Cover Your Damaged Car
It’s tough enough that your car gets damaged during a collision. Having the other driver refuse to face the responsibility is added stress, especially if it is completely the other party’s fault. There are people who just want to make things doubly difficult. It may be only pride that is keeping the other party from paying for the damages. Why? Most car insurance companies have third party insurance. Third party insurance will pay for the damage done on the other driver’s property but not on the insured person’s property. It should not be a problem then if the insured party were to blame. If the guilty party does not have car insurance, however, that would be a completely different story.
Recall events leading to the accident or collision.
Should you be covered by any insurance policy?
Think about your insurance policy, whose basics may not be that different from the other person’s insurance. Are you sure the other driver is to blame? These questions should lead you back to the time of the accident. It would be best, of course, if you have somehow documented the incident. This way, the details are clearer. Find explanations for possible loopholes to your story. You may be innocent but not being able to remember the details may make you sound like the guilty party.
Get a police report.
Report the incident. This way, both you and the other party are noted by the police. Once the investigation proves the other driver’s guilt, he or she can no longer refuse to pay for the damages. The only problem you may have to encounter here is if the other party has no car insurance and no money at all to pay for the damages. You should also ask the police for a copy of the report. This way, you always have a copy of very substantial evidence.
Get advice from an insurance agent.
Of course, you should have read your whole car insurance policy just to give you an idea about claims. However, because every situation is unique, it is best if you consult an insurance agent. Relate the details that have led to the collision, making sure that you have considered all angles. Ask your insurance agent whether or not the case is as clear-cut as you first think it is. The consultation can either provide you a better chance for claims or show you your own liabilities.
Ask for a meeting before considering legal actions.
Before going to court, try settling the matter with the other driver. This way, you can both avoid unnecessary expenses and additional stress. Hopefully, both of you would keep an open mind during this meeting. If needed, have both of your lawyers or an insurance agent witness your dialogue. Settling out of court may also be the best option if you and the other driver have the same car insurance company.
When another driver is to blame for damaging your car in a collision, it can be annoying or even infuriating. However, once you have sufficient evidence, either a court hearing or out of court settlement will go your way.
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