Expert: Bennie719 - 10/25/2007

Question
I have a car accident at night; I have hit other party car in the back bumper when he suddenly put a full stop near the highway entry. My speed at that time was either 40/mph or less. According to my agent they pay the other party $1700 for repair the back bumper a New Toyota Camry (but it was only a small dent in the middle, I still have a picture of the damage in my cell phone). But lately they also claim $800 health damage fee from the insurance company. However, during the incident I have call the police and the ambulance was also there, the male driver appear to be fine, but they say that his female passenger was feel dizzy at that time, but he tell me that it was because she is talking on the cell phone when I bump them. After the incident my insurance from 350 all the way went up to 850. That is more than double. Now I feel the other party was try defraud me. What should I do now?

Thank You


Answer
Hi David,
The owner was entitled to fair payment for his damages (these new energy absorbing bumpers that are federally mandated to help reduce injury) are extremely expensive to replace.  The passenger is entitled to fair compensation for her injuries.
Farmers is among the top 5 best companies in the US and I have dealt with them hundreds of times.  Rest assured, they are not going to pay a penny more than the fair amount they owe as compensation.
You can expect your rates to increase following a fault accident, but to more than double is totally out of line.
20% is a more reasonable number.  You need to have a discussion with your Farmers Agent for a full explanation.
I trust this information has been of help.
Your feedback for my answer will be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Bennie
San Francisco Bay Area 10-25-07 1:34 AM PST