Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 8/14/2009

Question
Hello, several days ago I was leaving a crowded parking lot. As I was pulling out an angry man came and banged on my window. He ordered me out of the car. Not knowing what this person wanted, I simply kept driving. (this was a nightclub in a bad part of town). The next day I found out that I apparently "knicked" a car next to me while leaving. There are no marks on my car at all. However, I did contact the other driver and ask what they are claiming I have done. I told him I would meet him today to see if the damage done to his truck was indeed caused by my car. I do not believe I knicked any car though. This guy claims if I don't meet him to discuss this, he will file a "hit and run" report. I did not hit and run because I was never aware I hit anything. However, he has my license number and name now, I think he is just looking for someone to pin it on. It has been 3 days since this "incident". I am thinking of not meeting him and telling him to do what he feels he needs to do. Can he report a hit and run 3 days later? If he does, what will happen.

Answer
Hi Patrick,

You should very carfully look over every detail of your vehicle to see if there is any damage, scuff mark, paint transfer, nicks, dings or anything else that could be seen as causing damage to someone elses vehicle. You should also take digital photos of every part of the exterior of your car. Doo all of this before you meet with the guy. If you can set your answering machine to record your call. Then call the guy and ask him to explain in detail why he thinks it was you that damaged his car. Ask him to describe exactly which part of your car hit which part of his car. Ask him if there were any other witnessess.  Then if there is no damage on your car that could be said to have caused the damage to his vehicle. You can either tell him to get lost or agree to meet him so you can show that your car did not cause the damage.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh