Expert: Anne - 2/6/2008

Question
On 1/25 I hit someone in the rear of his car as he went through a yeild (he stopped pulled through yeild sign then stopped)sign I stoped saw no cars and started foward only to find him stopped in front of me. My van had damage and since he had a rather large truck had according to police report minor bumper damage. I found out that evening that my insurance had lapsed. Of course when I called him to offer to fix his truck (no answer left message)that Sat. when I got home I found a letter from his attorney claimming personal injury. I find it hard to beleive that this guy who was standing with me waiting for the police was injured. (the police report said no injuries). In a panic what happens next?

Answer
Hello Bill,

I am sorry to hear about your situation. This is the number one reason you need insurance, to protect you against frivolous lawsuits. You can contact the attorney and tell them that have no insurance. Couple of things could happen (among other things). The person that retained the attorney might have uninsured bodily injury coverage on their vehicle. This would mean that they are covered and you would only have to deal with their insurance company (can make them payments). If that person is not covered by this coverage, then you are going to have to defend yourself.

It is always a good idea to talk to an attorney in your area about to establish what kind of rights and protections you have in your state.

I hope this helps,

http://www.auto-insurance-claim-adivice.com