Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 5/11/2010

Question
I was parked waiting for my husband to grab a coffee from Dunkin Donuts. Legal spot, surrounded by other cars when I was hit by a car turning into the lot.
I got out and she was apologizing time and again that she wasn't paying attention, etc. Cop shows up, write the details- mine being (the truth) I was sitting in a parked vehicle waiting for husband- hers was totally fabricated. She stated she hit me while I was reversing.... I almost died. That day it was all her fault, she was sorry, she'd pay for it, etc... Now I was moving?!?!?!
How do you fix this? I called the lot to see if they have cameras and they do not. The cop who did the report can only go by what he was told. No witnesses. She did get a citation for not paying attention, I got nothing because, well, I did nothing.
What will the judgement be for? We do not have much $$$, and I know our insurance will be going up as well.I thought this would be cut and dry, now she is not only a lousy driver, but a liar as well.

What do you see the outcome, and what route would you take to get the best, and honest results???

Answer
Hi Lily,

Unfortunately, without any witnesses it is just your word against hers. You should explain everything in as much detail as possible to your insurance company. Be very emphatic that you were not moving and that she hit you and demand that theynot pay her or her insurance company anything. Then all you can do is hope for the best.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh