Legal Question in Insurance Law in New Jersey

Extent of Auto insurance liability

My son (who is 21 but is a senior in College so is still on our auto policy) bumped lightly, the car in front of him in a very slow moving traffic jam. There is absolutely no damage to his vehicle (a Chrysler Cirrus) and MAYBE a few scratches, if anything, caused by the ''tap'' to the other vehicle (a 1997 Ford Escort driven by a 60ish lady). The Police, who were called to the scene, did not even issue an accident report but an ''incident report'', stating that the were no injuries and very minor, if any, damage.

The woman has gone to a local Auto dealership and produced an estimate for $621 to remove, do body work, repaint and replace the bumper (on a 1997 car!!)....and they have highlighted a statement that says ''open estimate-possible additional damages after dismantling-or parts peice changes''

My question is: Does just tapping this woman in the rear in a traffic jam open my son up to be fleeced like this because of the 'veiled threat'' potential of a ''soft tissue injury'' claim downstream or can he vigorously defend himself against this?


Asked on 10/09/05, 12:20 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Davies The Davies Law Firm, P.A.

Re: Extent of Auto insurance liability

if she makes any kind of claim, then turn it over to your insurance company to defend. she may 'suggest' that you pay her claim directly. talk this over with your insurance agent carefully, and find out what it will cost if your son is found to be liable for an accident.

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Answered on 10/09/05, 2:20 pm


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