Yesterday as I was driving straight on a two-way double lane street, a Sienna from the opposite side of the cross street was trying to make a left turn into my street. The driver didn't even see me as she make the turn and cutting into my lane at the same time (I was on the right lane). As her car was getting closer and closer, I honked to avoid collision, however at the same time I had to swirve right a bit, which caused the right side of my car (fender and bumper corner) to make contact with the parked cars on the side of the street. My mirror was knocked down and there were one deep stratch on the bumper flare and minor scratches on the fender. There was no direct collision between me and the Sienna. I got all that driver's info, but I'm not sure whether I should make the claim. Any suggestions?

 

Oops, just realized I posted in the wrong section...my bad. This belongs to General Talk

 

Moved.

 

I'd recommend getting an estiamte first. If the cost is less than your deductable, there you go. If not, consider making the claim, but without contact between you two or a police record saying the Sienna was at fault, I doubt they'd have a way to go after her insurance. Yours however should cover.

 

No matter how minor an incident, the police should be called to the scene and only move the vehicles if it blocks the natural flow of traffic. Without a police report saying the sienna was at fault, then there is absolutely nothing the sienna's insurance can do. Your insurance will end up covering it and most likely your premium will increase. If the damage is not too severe and costly, then I would recommend paying out right cash for the damages. Assuming of course that the costs do not exponentially exceed your deductible.

If you have any further questions, I can contact my friends/family in the police department and get you more precise information.

 

hope you left a note for the parked cars you hit. sadly, you're 100% at fault here.

 

ah right, I didn't make point to that. Technically, if you didn't notify the owner of the vehicle then you could potentially be charged with hit and run... not a good thing to have on your record. If you have yet to do so, notify the vehicle owner immediately and inform them that your insurance/you personal funds will cover the damages.

 

Sometimes it is best to just hit the other car when you can't avoid the collision. (especially when you're not the one at fault)

Screw or get screwed, my friend. I learned that the hard way a while back.