What do I do about a letter from an insurance company I just received?
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What do I do about a letter from an insurance company I just received?
I have no insurance and was in an accident that was my fault. There was minor damage to the person’s bumper. I just received a letter from her insurance company telling me to pay a $3000.00 bill. What do I do?
Asked on June 4, 2009 under Accident Law, Wisconsin
Answers:
B. B., Member, New Jersey Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 14 years ago | Contributor
If the accident truly was completely your fault, and you did $3,000 worth of damage to the other person's car, you have two options, really. One is to find a way to pay the money, perhaps by negotiating with the insurance company for a payment plan. The other is to wait for them to sue you, which they will, and get a judgment and come after you with it.
But without knowing all the facts, I can't tell you that you were 100% liable, and you might be surprised to find out that maybe you weren't. You also haven't said what proof you've been given of the dollar amount; I'd expect to see a detailed repair estimate at the very least -- but don't be surprised if it is a $3,000 bumper, because the crash safety features built in -- and which might have made it look like just "minor" damage outside -- often have to be replaced.
For reliable advice about what to do next, you need to speak to an attorney in your area, who can review the entire situation. One place to find a qualified lawyer is our website, http://attorneypages.com
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