student driver had accident w/ no insurance yet

by Guest » Tue Feb 05, 2008 03:49 am
Guest

Just passed my driving written test and am taking driving lesson. My husband let me drive w/ him but had an accident that is my fault coz tried to avoid somebody who just crossed the strret instead hit a parked car w/ nobody inside. It was an old buick 1995 car w/ lots of millage. Our insurance didn't cover me because they said my husband didn't include me in his insurance before and he signed a waiver that I'm not driving so it will be out of pocket. The owner of the car said that it will be expensive to fix it for an old car so he just want us to pay him instead w/ the amount of $4500. But the problem is that if we'll purchase a car same like his in lesser millage and good condition, it will just cost us $1800. and he likes us to give him $4500. What should we do

Total Comments: 6

Posted: Tue Feb 05, 2008 05:52 am Post Subject:

The cost of repairing the car depends upon the parts used to mend it. Many body shops use A/M parts whereas many others fix with O/m parts. If the owner wants to fix his car with O/M parts then it may cost you high. Do you have the option of negotiating the value with him?

Posted: Tue Feb 05, 2008 06:03 am Post Subject: Qs that need to be counted upon

But the problem is that if we'll purchase a car same like his in lesser millage and good condition, it will just cost us $1800. and he likes us to give him $4500.



My friend, do I need to mention over here that this gentleman simply means business?
If you or I were in his position, would we be accepting a car that costs $1800?
Well, I don't see any way out of this till you're gonna talk to his insurance. If you don't get an opportunity, you need to consult an attorney about finding out a way to proceed with this case.
All the best! stalefaced

Posted: Tue Feb 05, 2008 06:18 am Post Subject:

Hi stalefaced,

I got to remind you one thing over here. Don't you think this gentleman's UM coverage should come into the picture now (or for that matter if he had comprehensive) ?

The owner of the car said that it will be expensive to fix it for an old car so he just want us to pay him instead w/ the amount of $4500.


The owner according to me should show the analysis as to how he has arrived at that figure! If he has arrived that figure after consulting his insurer, then surely he has an UM cover. Am I right ?
As for Genie, I believe, she needs to consult the DOI, just to make sure if there is a dearth at how this claim has been formulated as also find out if there is a ray of hope left for the couple
Gooluk Genie!
Lameman40s

Posted: Tue Feb 05, 2008 06:22 am Post Subject:

Is it possible for you get the vehicle inspected by an independent adjuster? I mean get the list of the damages that require fixing. It'll tell you about the cost. I too feel that the person in question is looking to make some money from this affair.

Posted: Wed Feb 06, 2008 06:08 am Post Subject:

I won't go into details but _very_ few states require UMPD and even if offered, even fewer people pay for it (more states require that UMBI be offered but this is completely different).

Ok, if I understand this correctly the person it telling you that the repair costs would be $4500? Has the person given you an estimate? Also, it appears your saying the vehicles value is about $1800. If the value is less then the repair cost, you only owe the value. Look up the value on NADA.com and see if its less then the repair cost. If so, offer to pay the person the value of the vehicle. You should require that they sign a property damage release (look online) before you fork over _any_ money. If they won't sign one, don't pay them the money. If you can afford to pay the loss at this time, send a certified letter to the person making the offer and include your documentation showing the amount owed. In the letter confirm that payment will be made once the release is signed. Again, before you make an offer of payment, you need to be able to make that payment.

Posted: Wed Feb 06, 2008 10:51 am Post Subject:

OP this person is trying to take advantage of you....the cost of repair exceeds the value of the vehicle...period...If you want to give us the YEAR, MAKE, MODEL AND MILEAGE, I'll look up a value for you, but I'm hear to tell you there likely isn't a 1995 buick (with high miles as you said) that is worth more than 1800.00, and more than likely would classify as basic transportation (about 500-1000.00 tops)....I'll assume this person does not have collision coverage...if they DO....Tell them they will have to file with their company and then you will repay their insurance company......At least you will know you are paying the correct amount...or....As tcope said get an acruate value from more than one source offer to pay them this amount or let them sue....

and I'm sorry but a lot of these other posts are just plain confusing...

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