Legal Question in Traffic Law in Virginia

Should I pay?

My friend was in a minor accident. He hit a car in the rear bumper. He was applying his brakes and collided at an approximate speed of 10mph. The only damage to the other car was two scrapes from the bolts of his liscense plates. The police were called but said they do not make reports for so little damage. My friend does not want to involve an insurance company. He and the other pary agreed to have an unliscensed man repair the bumper (the cost would be $200). Then the other party decided to have the repair done by someone else (Cost $350). I am unaware if the other party submitted a claim to their insurance to pay for the damage. Should my friend pay $350 (upon recieving bill from repair), Give the other party the $200 and tell them to make up the differece, or submit to insurance company?


Asked on 12/06/01, 8:08 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: Should I pay?

Two estimates would be reasonable in this situation. Unfortunately, the estimate from the unlicensed repairman should not be counted as a credible estimate since he's not licensed, and the person whose car was damaged cannot be required to have his car repaired by one who's not properly licensed.

Your friend might first offer $275.00. However, if that offer is refused, he has little choice but to pay the $350.00 (assuming that he still doesn't want to involve the insurance carrier).

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Answered on 12/06/01, 8:42 pm


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