So, it was raining this morning in Silver Spring, MD and I was driving to work, getting on to the highway ramp, then bam this SUV in front of me suddently brakes... so i brake real hard, the ABS kicks in, and I stop in time. However, the women behind me wasn't so lucky... She hits me, I hit the SUV. As soon as I get out of the car, the SUV in front speeds off on to the highway, I didn't get any of his info. The women behind me, fortunately stayed. So we both have GEICO, and tomorrow I am suppose to go to see their adjuster.

As for damage, my rear bumer has imprints from the screws on her front license plate, and some other scuffs. It also looks misaligned now. The airbags did not deploy. The front, which I did not notice at first, is alot more damage. The front bumper is misaligned (off the hinges near the headlights), and around the headlight area, the grill and Acura sign have cracks on it. But worse of all, the passenger headlight has a small crack in it. Also, most importantly no damage to me.

This is my first accident, after 5 years of driving, and I don't know how to best handle it with the insurance company. I told them this exact story, and apparently the women that hit me from behind is not contesting it. Should I demand that only dealer fix it? What do i tell them, are there any caveats? Would it be a problem that the guy in the front (on the SUV) that i hit sped off? Also, will my insurance go up -- shouldn't right, cause she rear-ended me? If anyone has any suggestions/experience in these types of situations, I appreciate your suggestions.

Oh and this happened to my 2006 2month old TL, so yes, I am very freakin pissed.

Thanks alot.

 

Man, sorry to hear...

The SUV probably didn't have insurance and/or a reason to avoid the police... so I wouldn't worry about him.

In any case, the driver behind you caused the accident, therefore she's at fault for all three cars.

Pick a reputable bodyshop (AAA has direct repair shops where you have AAA's guarantee, not just the shop's. See if Geico has something similar) - not necessarily the one the dealership has/recommends. Maybe AZ members in your vicinity can help you with that...

Your insurance *may* go up. I think they determine your rate on how many claims you make, not just on how many accidents you cause. Even if it does go up, it won't be drastic.

Be sure to insist on OEM replacements, not aftermarket parts/repairs.

Good luck with the repair!

 

Another thing is that when the women called the cops, they apparently told her that they dont come out for "minor" accidents. Maybe its a maryland thing, i don't know. I know in nyc they always come. So that's another potential problem....

 

If you are willing/able to go to Virginia for a body shop, I HIGHLY recommend Quality Auto Body on Draper Drive in Fairfax (a short distance west of Fairfax Circle). They do excellent work and are honest—I've taken three cars there on four different occasions and my brother and father have done business with them as well.