Wanting general advise as this is my first car accident. Yes, I've learnt my lesson and now will have insurance for the rest of my life while driving, please don't hate ):
I got a letter of demand today from NRMA speaking on behalf of 2nd car who claims $5500 because I rear ended him about two months ago. The scenario happened on a highway with multiple traffic lights in qld:
- First car abruptly stopped at a traffic light which already had a line of cars
- Second car braked, then let go, and braked to a complete stop, did not rear end the first car
- Third car (me) braked, however did not brake hard enough to come to a complete stop and rear-ended the second car
Facts:
* At the time I was uninsured
* Police statement was not made at the time of incident
* Second car was a red P plater, student
* Second car was insured under his mum's name
* No witnesses (except the first car, of which I have no contact details of)
* Exchanged details, took some (poor quality) photos with second car
* Attempted to contact the second car 100 times and they ignored my messages and calls prior to receiving letter of demand
The PAV of car was stated $6000 for a 2007 Ford Fiesta 3dr, Salvage value $1000, and the chassis of both passenger and driver sides were damaged, stated from motor vehicle assessment. He decided to write-off the car and I was charged for subsequent tow & car hire for 14 days.
Attached are photos from the incident:
* My car (http://tinyurl.com/jn4hfts)
* His car (http://tinyurl.com/zdexr9m, http://tinyurl.com/j4gux4u, http://tinyurl.com/zyxacux)
What's the best plan to undergo negotiations? Personally, I don't believe his damages were severe enough for a write-off and he wanted a new car. Advice would be highly appreciated as a first time it is highly mentally exhausting; and as a poor university student, this will take a huge chunk out of my existing little savings ):
Pay insurance company $5500.
Problem solved.