AboutBennie 719 Expertise I have extensive knowledge in Personal Auto, Homeowners Insurance and Personal Umbrella coverage. Also thoroughly familar with claims handling procedures. Will not be able to quote rates because I took an early retirement. I still maintain a valid California Property/Casualty Agent/Broker license.
Experience Experience in the area: I have been answering questions at allexperts.com since 2002 in the catagory of "Property & Casualty Insurance". Licensed in California since 1961, first in Life/Health for 3 years and as a Property/Casualty Agent/Broker since 1964. Retired at age 58, but still complete my 30 hours of continuing education every two years in order to keep renewing my license.
Expert: Bennie 719 Date: 4/15/2008 Subject: parked car accident
Question I was backing up and hit a parked car. I left a note and was contacted by the owner. It seemed like a small amount of damage so i was going to pay for the repair. She get an estimate and tells me the auto body will not take my money . They told her it must come from her. I am trying to avoid going to my insurance company but this sounds very strange. Is there any way i can protect myself if i pay for the repairs?
Answer Hi Justin,
It sounds like she just want's to pocket the money and ignore the damage.
Prepare a Release of All Claims for Property Damage to a( year, make and model car) owned by (owners name) that occurred on (date) and (location) in exchange for payment of ($$$) from (your name) and have it signed by the owner at the time you make the payment.
You should have at least one person sign this document as a witness.
This should totally protect you from her later trying to claim more money.
Look at the registration and make sure that she is the registered owner. If more than one person is named as registered owner, then both names and both signatures should appear on the release.
I hope this information has been of help. Please write again if you feel that I can be of more assistance.
Your feedback by rating my answer will be appreciated.
Sincerely,
Bennie
San Francisco Bay Area
