Car hit by neighbor

[dwcc]

Our van was hit in the parking lot of our apartment complex during the last 48 hours. I found a truck with matching paint marks on the front bumper and a screw that matches the height of a large scrape in the back end of our van. I filed a police report and they looked at the truck and said there was nothing I could do without an eye witness. I am positive this person is the culprit. Is there anything we can do to make sure this person doesn't get away with this hit and run? I would appreciate any advice on this matter.

 

[lawrat]

I am a law school graduate. WHat I offer is mere information, not to be construed as forming an attorney client relationship.

Yes, take pictures, bring an autobody expert and an insurance adjuster and have them take video, samples, etc. and go to small claims court.

See what happens from there.

 

[dwcc]

I did take pictures, and will take the videos today. Should I contact the person directly and give them an opportunity to resolve this, or go directly to court? This incident happened in Texas, if the state laws are different. I appreciate your response, and any advice that anyone can give in this matter.

 

[lawrat]

Go directly to court.

Remember, since you DIDN'T witness it, you have the burden to prove it was the owner of this truck.

 

[dwcc]

I believe I have enough evidence to prove it was the truck that struck my van, but I don't think I could prove it was necessarily the owner driving at the time. As the owner of the truck, would this person be ultimately responsible or should I seek further proof of the actual driver? I appreciate your advice in this matter.

 

[lawrat]

Seek further proof of the driver because owner may say he/she never gave driver permission to drive van.

 

[dwcc]

That is possible, but I doubt it was anyone but the owner. They live downstairs from us, and I have only seen the one person drive the truck. But I will look for further proof.

Thanks.