Hit & Run

[iNTeNSeBLue98]

I was pulling off my street (a one-way), making a left on to a two way. There is an intersection to my right with a traffic signal (I'm not entering the roadway at the light, but just east of it about 30 feet). The light is red for the lanes I am crossing and driving in to, the "Stop Here on Red" mark is to my left. I have to watch carefully for left turns from my right so as not to pull out in front of oncoming traffic from the other part of the intersection, which is kind of blinded by the angle.

I see my way is clear to the right and proceed to make my turn. I see a car to my left is at least half a block away. Next thing I know I'm crossing the first lane and DD says to watch out for the car. The next thing I see is the front end of another car next to my window! He almost stopped without tagging me.

He didn't me hit hard, but it was wnough to push in the fender and keep my door from opening far enough so I can get in/out. I don't know where he thought he was going, but I'm sure my way was clear and he should have been stopped, especially since he should have seen me pulling out ..... guess I'll be waiting for cars to be fully stopped behind that line from now on.

I put my car in Reverse to get off the street and clear the way, figuring the other driver would do the same - NOOO!! - he continues to go on his way, through the intersection and without a care to what might have happened. DD was able to capture most of the creep's license number, and I can identify the kind of car it was. I guess he didn't think he caused any damage to my car. I was so mad. that he didn't stop to exchange information or even ask if we were all right. I pulled safely across the street as I had intended and parked with my flashers on. I dialed 911 to report the accident but wasted my time. The dispatchers were kind but since no one was injured they suggested I call the police in the morning to file a report.

The thought of reporting this to my insurance - I probably won't because I don't have neough money to cover the deductible anyway - adding another claim (DH and I each have one from 2001), and the fact that they are now using my credit record against me to raise my rates........ What else could possibly go wrong? don't answer that

 

[SalandJeff]

Thank God that no one was hurt.

The way people drive is insane...no concern for anyone else. I saw a similar accident where the driver pulled into a driveway to get out of the traffic, and the person at fault took off. I didnt' get the plate, but called the police and told them which way the car went. And insurance...gotta have it and pay for it, but can't use it! Good luck.

 

[C.Ann]

Originally posted by iNTeNSeBLue98
the fact that they are now using my credit record against me to raise my rates........ What else could possibly go wrong? don't answer that

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Huh? How can they do that?

Sorry that happened to you.. Doesn't it just make you want to spit nails??

 

[DocRafiki]

I was a victim of a hit & run on the interstate once by someone who was reportedly (by all the witnesses) going about 100mph. If I would have had an air bag, I would have gone under a semi. Since I had an older car, I was able to see and swerve out from its path and hit a tree instead. I could have very easily been killed, but the cops didn't go after the guy.

He was trying to pass me on the right shoulder at the time.

It really makes you rething road rage, doesn't it? I know I've had my own daydreams about this, and yes they involve firearms.

 

[iNTeNSeBLue98]

Originally posted by C.Ann
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Huh? How can they do that?

I'm sorry,maybe forgot exactly what my policy said since I read it. The "consumer reporting agency terminology" confused me. The policy says they obtained a "motor vehicle report" from said agency and as a result my premium is higher. It's not the credit (though it wouldn't surprise me if they held it gainst me) but claims from 2001 jacking up my rates.

 

[browneyes]

I'm glad you and your dd weren't hurt.

 

[C.Ann]

Originally posted by iNTeNSeBLue98
I'm sorry,maybe forgot exactly what my policy said since I read it. The "consumer reporting agency terminology" confused me. The policy says they obtained a "motor vehicle report" from said agency and as a result my premium is higher. It's not the credit (though it wouldn't surprise me if they held it gainst me) but claims from 2001 jacking up my rates.

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Ah...now I see..

Of course it wouldn't surprise me if the insurers DID start doing things like that.. Seems they'll look for any kind of loophole to gouge for more money or cancel people out and then "reinstate" them in the MUCH more expensive "risk pool"..

 

[Dan Murphy]

Very scary, Kris, glad to hear you guys are okay. Hopefully the police will find the person.

 

[iNTeNSeBLue98]

It took me until lunch break to get the courage to call the police. I didn't know if it would be worth my time, but since I had most of the license plate and could identify the car I might have enough details for them to find the car & the driver.

I was just really mad that he didn't stop. He didn't hit us hard, but the fact that this is the 6th time in 6 years that this car has be in an altercation really P's me off. The police listed me as Vehicle #2 because as the officer stated "vehicle #1 is usually the one charged as being at fault". Since he fled the scene they deem him to be at fault.


I have yet to call the insurance company. Is it okay to wait to hear back from the police to see if they've found the other driver or should I report it right away? I filed the report over the phone and I don't remember if there was information in that report that I needed to give the insurance company.

It's only damage to my car that's a problem and I doubt I would take it to a body shop to get fixed because I don't have the money for the deductible right now. DH and my FIL should be able to fix it well enough for me to open the door.

 

[Boots]

How awful! {{{{{HUGS}}}}}