Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 10/29/2010

Question
We had two vehicles parked in front of our house after driveway was paved. Vehicle 1 struck vehicle 2 and vehicle 2 struck vehicle 3 then veered to left up onto curb across the street, total of 74ft from originally parked. After Vehicle 2 veered across the street,vehicle 1 struck vehicle 3. Driver of vehicle 1 left scene before being seen by victim/witness. Victim/witness got license plate and reported incident 911 when vehicle 1 was behind vehicle 2.  Also they left front license plate.  Officers were never dispatched to vehicle 1's home although they had the plate as evidence. Two tickets were issued after an officer called the vehicle 1's home and vehicle owner stated they did it. The two tickets that were issued were 1-not leaving info  2-negligent driving
Vehicle 2 was totaled-Vehicle 3 is being fixed, but since it is a 2010 is there diminution because of the damage to the rear end. Vehicle 3 is a 2010 VW TDI 13,000 miles. Do we need to seek an expert? Lawyer?
We live in IL.  Should there have been a larger charge- misdemeanor for property damage? Over 10,000 in damages with vehicle 2 and vehicle 3.  We have pictures of the accident.  Need your advice.

Answer
Hi Aimee,

This is a very confusing situation but I will do my best.

From your description, I will assume that vehice #3, the 2010 VW TDI is your vehicle and was hit in the rear by the driver that fled the scene. This being the case, it does not matter what charges he was ticketed with. The bottom line is that is was found to be at fault and his insurance company is paying for your damage.

Yes you are entitled to be paid for the diminshed value of your new vehicle. You will need to hire an independent appraiser to determine the amount and instruct you through the process. To learn more about diminished value visit www.collisionclaims.com .

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh