Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 9/18/2009

Question
Hi:

I was involved in a multi car accident in Washington State. I was on the interstate and the traffic had come to a halt. I stopped my car and was rear ended by another car. As a result of this, my car was pushed into the car ahead of me.

1) I want to know if i will be held responsible for the damage to the car in front?

2) Should I report a claim to my insurance company or should I contact the insurance company of the guy who rear ended my car?

Thanks.


Answer
Hi Dave,

You are not responsible for the car in front of you since you did nothing to cause the damage. The only reason you hit the car in front of you is because you were hit and pushed into the car in front. The person who hit you is responsible for all of the damage they caused.

You should contact the at-fault persons insurance company. Since there were multiple cars involved and depending on the extent and cost of the damage, that insurance company may direct you to file a claim with your own insurance company if their insured did not have enough coverage to pay for all of the damage that they caused. If that happens your insurance company will be reimbursed a pro-rated share of the available coverage.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh