What can happen if I hit someone from behind and was uninsured?
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What can happen if I hit someone from behind and was uninsured?
The police were not called but info was exchanged. A whole day has passed with nothing done.
Asked on February 14, 2014 under Accident Law, Washington
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
Generally speaking, a "hit in the rear" is a good case for the person hit, especially if they were stopped. If this should ever happen again a police report really would be what needs to be done since it would protect you in many ways, even though it may seem that it would hurt you at the onset. Washington state statutory laws require insurers in Washington to offer uninsured motorist insurance to anyone purchasing liability automobile insurance. What that means is that if the person you hit had uninsurance coverage they could be going against their own policy and then their carrier has a right to "subrogate" the matter - sue you for the cost of repairs. However, no police report leaves it difficult for the person you hit as well since insurance companies like those when making a claim. What could happen is that they will try and sue you for damages to the car and possibly to themselves if they can prove that they were injured. They have until the statute of limitations runs in your state (3 years) to file a claim against you. It may be best for you to take the initiative here and seek help in having the matter settled. I would speak with a lawyer in your area. Good luck.
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