Rear-ended :(

[AndysPlit]

Hello everyone. I am really upset this morning from the accident my 280 suffered last friday after work. All things considered, the damage is not that bad. I was hit from behind and all that was evident of a collision was a nasty dent in the bumper and slight tweak in the overrider. Clearly it was the other person's fault.

I am concerned about the chances of my Z getting fixed because the driver of the vehicle that hit me was not on the policy. The actual owner of the 96 Acura told me he was going to make a false report to his company and say that he was driving. Although at first this sounded like a good way to ensure that my car would be fixed, I gave it some thought and decided that it would be in both our best interests to tell the truth.

Well, he went ahead and filed the false report, I suppose thinking that he was doing me a favor. I told him that he should call them back and tell them the truth because I decided to play this by the book and mention what really happened. I filed my report last night with my company and am letting them handle the rest. Unfortunately I do not have uninsured motorists protecting me on my policy nor full coverage. So in the end I am hoping his company (Mercury Ins.) will cover the damages as it was clearly the other person's fault.

On a side note I thank God that I kept my stock chrome bumpers on my 78 280. Without those big 5mph bumpers my rear-end would've sustained even more damage. Thanks Nissan! I got an estimate for $700. Not that bad. I'm OK and no one was hurt. I have learned a very valuable lesson upon almost comitting a crime (Insurance fraud). The truth will set you free of worry. And also it is best to protect yourself and play hardball.

Anyway, I'm sure she'll look brand new pretty soon. I hope this all works out. Wish me luck guys and gals.

[Superdave68]

Andy-

To bad about your accident in the scheme of things the most important thing is your ok. Insurance changes from state to state but most policies cover anyone who has permission to drive the vehicle. Were the Police called to the scene or did you just exchange information with the other driver. If he told a Law Enforcement Officer he was driving when someone else actually was I'm sure there is a "giving false information" statute in your state. However, I'm sure all you really care about is getting your car fixed so it may be best just to let him deal with his insurance and you deal with yours.

[boyblunda]

Sorry to hear about your car but relieved that it is not badly damaged and will likely be easily fixed.

One thing that insurance companies do NOT like is being fed incorrect information so I think you have covered yourself in the best way possible by playing it straight down the line. Too many things outside your control here to even think about doing it any other way and the consequences of being caught out just not worth thinking about.

[ezzzzzzz]

Being rear-ended is my biggest fear. I always give myself ten or more feet between me and the car I'm following at stoplights. I also watch the rearview and pump the brakes to flash the brakelights to upcoming vehicles. I've thought about getting a brakelight flasher unit like the bikers use. Sometimes driving a near pristine 240Z is less than enjoyable being worryed about the drunk, distracted or stoplight running driver slamming into me.

[rtaylor]

Andy, from a risk manager's perspective, you are doing the right thing by reporting to your carrier exactly the circumstances that occurred. Let them deal with the problem. Mercury may not step up to the plate, but know that by doing the "right" thing here you have nothing to worry about, accept maybe a lighter wallet The penalties associated with being less than truthful could bring many harsh karmic paybacks, together with adverse legal consequences that could befall you.

Good luck with your claim, and your Z. Glad you were not hurt.

[AndysPlit]

Thanks for your thoughts everyone. Yes, to tell the trith is not easy at times, as I have felt tested. But not even ensuring the repair of my Z is not worth the potential dangers of lying.

It's very strange. For years I have always had this vision when I came to a complete stop that someone would slam into the back of my car. It use to really haunt me as I felt that maybe the stars (I know this sounds hoaky) were telling me something. Now that it has finally happened I feel some prophecy has been fulfilled. Anyway, all things considered everything is OK. Tough little car.

I am sending my accident report to the DMV today. I'll keep you guys posted. Cheers!

ps..no police report was filed.