Expert: Charlie Barone - 11/3/2009

Question
QUESTION: I live in California, My car was rear ended, and was not insured at the time of the accident, i was not the driver. damages exceed $750 ; the other party's insurance company contacted me, saying they will pay for any damages caused by the other driver. they also requested to see the car to evaluate car damage.

if i accept any money from the other party's insurance, will they file the SR-1 to DMV???

Am I liable to lose my drivers license? for not insuring my car, even tho i was not the driver?

or should i just pay for repair out of my pocket?? and tell the insurance company i sold the car.

plase help me with any advise, thank u in advance for your help.



christian :)


Answer
I'm unsure of the California statute that controls lapsed coverage, but I would make the claim regardless of whether you had coverage at the time of the loss. Their adjuster has no reason to examine your insurance documents or to confirm coverage prior to making a settlement offer.