Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 12/22/2009

Question
Hi Richard!

I was making a legal left hand turn when a driver coming the opposite direction hit me. It was extremely crowded and neither of us saw each other, although the other lane had stopped for me.

Anyway, his front bumper was damaged and I sustained pretty massive injury to my passenger side: he essentially T-boned me.  We exchanged information and had a police report filed.  Now that is all said and done, and looking at my insurance card I see it expired in October.

They have my expired insurance info and I know I didn't renew it now, or else I would have had the current paperwork with me. My question is: who is at fault (in my view, it was him) and since I have no insurance, what will happen to me?!

Thank you so much for any insight you can provide.

Answer
Hi Nicole,

Anytime you make a left had turn or U-turn across oncomming traffic it will be considered to be your fault. The other driver had the right of way. Even though you may be able to argue that the other driver was partially at fault the majarity of the liability will be assigned to you.

If you have no insurance coverage, you will be responsible for paying for the damage to your own car. The other person will go to their own insurance to have their car repaired assuming they have collision insurance. The their insurance company will contact you for reimbursement.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh