Q: Can you change your mind and decide to file a insurance claim after it was verbally agreed upon there was no damage
I posted this once but apparently need to reiterate with more details.
I accidentally lightly hit the rear bumper of a co-workers parked auto while parking mine.
He was not in the car. I got out and inspected both cars and it appeared to me there was nothing more than a few scratches.
I went to the break room after punching in knowing I would see him. Apparently another worker informed him I hit his car. He came in “jokingly” saying I hit his car and exaggerated I damaged his car. He was joking as we kidded around.
I took it as it wasn’t much and that was it. He never asked for my driver license, registration or insurance. He never said he wanted or was going to file a claim either. A few days later we even had conversations never bringing up the accident.
Now it’s been over a week. My question is can he now approach me with an estimate for damages and how long does he have to file a insurance claim. Given the time who’s to say the damage was caused by me. I’m in California.
A:
more info needed.
yes, he can change his mind based on facts you shared.
you could have exposure having hit his car and not having left a note ID'ing yourself.
technically that is a misdemeanor hit and run and you don't want someone to press for that.
A: The prior answers apply. We understood the first time.
A:
Yes - up to 3 years to file a claim is the S.O.L. for property damage only claims
you should have left a note and provided your insurance info on the spot or notified him immediately,
this could be a hit and run case and would involve the police if info is not provide and depending on the amount of the estimate of damages the DMV / SR-1 may need to be filed.
in the future you should also take photos of the damage immediately to answer your question "who's to say the was caused by me"
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