Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 5/15/2009

Question
hello i was in an accident and at the time my insurance had a lapse. theres two lanes on the onramp to the freeway, one is carppol one is not. its 1000 pm and a suv speeds up and cuts me off while i am still in the carpool lane as she cuts me off i slow down to realize she stops completely i swerve to the right and hit the brakes and hit her on her passanger bumper. it was just her in the suv and she stated that she was just released from the hospital.and a police report was made. i feel i am not at fault although i did rear end her. she cut me off and with the possibility of her being under the influcene of meds. as well as entering the car pool lane with only one person

Answer
Hi Christyl,

You will have to contact her insurance comapny and file a claim. Be prepared for the fact that she will likely tell a completely different story. If you do not have independent witnessess it will be your word against hers. Generally, you are considered to be at fault when you rear end some one regardless of the situation. ut you should do your best to tell your story truthfully and calmly and hopefully all will work out.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh