Bump to the Bumper

[Katxoxo]

On my way home from work today, someone rear-ended by pretty DSB.

Bad scuffing on right bumping, scratch/scuff on black license plate surround -- and now that I am no longer adrenaline pumped, I see the right side bumper is pushed into the right rear corner panel -- just a touch.

And, the guy who hit me was ANNOYED that I asked for his driver's license and insurance card (which he didn't have) for what he thought was nothing big.

I have a word for him - but I will remain a lady.

[Lonestar]

Re: Bump to the Bumper

This is way too bad. I hoped you immediately called the police when the person could not provide proof of insurance. One of the cities near me, Irving, now has an ordinance that basically saya that if an individual is pulled over for a violation or is involved in an accident and can not show proof of insurance their vehicle is towed. 0 tolerance.

[Sandman]

Re: Bump to the Bumper

Kathleen,that's a bummer. At least you were not hurt. Now you can
sweet talk the insurance agent to total the car and you can get the RED one ! Only kidding,but glad you're OK.

Ron

[FEsTbird]

Re: Bump to the Bumper

Kathleen--
The guy who hit you will be surprised at the cost of repairing your bumper. Based on a parking lot accident I had and both parties decided to not report it, my offhand guess will be in excess of $300. The way that your post reads to me, you were able to get his name and address (driver's license).

I would report the accident to your insurance company with the particulars you speak of. My bet is that they will be able to find him. If he does have insurance they will be able to get to it. Ask them about making a police report since he did not have insurance proof in the car. Does your policy include uninsured motorist collision? If so, you will be covered over your deductible. They should be able to send the insurance adjuster to look at your damage and make a repair estimate.

[SugarBabe]

Re: Bump to the Bumper

Sorry Kathleen. Hopefully they can repair her like new!!! Good luck!! Why is it that when someone hits you, they never have insurance?? It is even a law in CA and it still happens!!

[JoelK]

Re: Bump to the Bumper

Sorry to Here it Kathleen. Deffinately recommend you let you file a claim with your insurance company and let their lawyers chase him.

[Katxoxo]

Re: Bump to the Bumper

Thanks, all. I am truly okay albeit slightly sore in my neck and lower back. I am more disappointed than anything else.


He didn't have his insurance card on him but I told him that I wanted the account number and name of insurance company before leaving the scene. If he continued to be resistant, I 'was' going to call the local police. He got on the phone and gave me the details. By the time I finished posting this original thread, the phone rang and it was the other driver's insurer to discuss my claim. (So no - no police report filed as of yet.)

The insurer told me to make sure I check the shocks underneath when I get to the body shop. My dad and I took another look at the bumper today and while the superficial blemishes are not too bad, the bumper is misaligned and pushed in more than I realized in other places. With the holiday weekend, the car won't make it to my bodyshop until Tuesday.

And Ron -- indeed the red, as you know, is tempting me! Really tempting me!

[Brad]

Re: Bump to the Bumper

Not sure if NY is a "no-fault" state, however I know here in IL it is VERY important that you file a claim with your insurance company (mainly if his doesn't cover it). The first thing they ask for here is a copy of the police report when filing a claim. With "no fault" even if your company has to pay, if it wasn't your fault it isn't held against you.

As far as my experience with cost (I've had 4 Tbird bumpers replaced:
New bumper cover, $1,200. Paint and prep, $400. The re-enforcement is often damaged and needs to be replaced in anything faster than about 2 miles per hour. Make sure no damage to your license plate frame or exhaust tips. I got hit in the rear wheel and bumper at about 10 MPH or less and had $2,500. in damage to the rear suspension (well beyond just the shocks).

You can save a lot of money if you have them repair your bumper or you buy a re-manufactured one, but someone should still pay you the full amount of the damage regardless of how you choose to fix it.

[SugarBabe]

Re: Bump to the Bumper

Glad he had insurance....still doesn't help all the grief you are feeling!! Now you are the one that has to go without your car!!

[islandtime]

Re: Bump to the Bumper

The insurer told me to make sure I check the shocks underneath when I get to the body shop.

At least it sounds like the insurer is actually concerned about your Bird. I hope all goes well from here on with the repair.

[Handyman]

Re: Bump to the Bumper

Kathleen, Glad your OK...Good luck getting all the paperwork in order for the repair work...in Florida we have the second most uninsured motorist in the country next to Arizona...

Handyman(Dennis)