What to do if 2 months ago I hit a parked vehicle and informed my neighbor who didn’t file a police report but now she wants to take me to court for the damages?
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What to do if 2 months ago I hit a parked vehicle and informed my neighbor who didn’t file a police report but now she wants to take me to court for the damages?
The car is not hers, it’s her husband’s. I tried to get the car fixed at a shop of my choice (because she allowed me to pick) but now she is refusing. Will I lose by going to court?
Asked on January 18, 2014 under Accident Law, Florida
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
You could assert as a defense to a lawsuit from your neighbor that she does not have standing to file the lawsuit against you because she is not the registered owner of the vehicle. Her husband is the registered owner of the vehicle and he would have standing to file the lawsuit against you. It is not possible to predict how a judge will rule in the case, but that is a valid argument you could raise.
It would be advisable to contact your insurance company and have your insurance company pay for the property damage to your neighbor's vehicle instead of waiting to be sued by your neighbor. Eventually, you will be held liable for the accident since you hit a parked car.
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