Uninsured Accident, My Fault..

[Q]

Hello,

Okay, I live in Pennsylvania and recently I had a lapse in my auto insurance (about 40 days) because of some personal issues I had and never got around to buying insurance again (I know, big mistake). Anyway, I got into a small accident, my car, which is in my name, is perfectly fine with no dents, marks, etc. The other driver has insurance and his car (a 2003 Benz) had a small crack in the rear bumper. We pulled over and got eachothers information. No police or tow-trucks were involved (we just left after we got eachothers information, both of us are from Pennsylvania where the accident occured). Anyway, I told the guy that I didn't want to report a claim and I would just pay him cash (he didn't know I didn't have insurance, so I'd figure I pay it), but the thing is, it's a 2003 Benz and it'll cost $4,000 to fix with paint and all. I told him I'll check my funds and I'll get back to him. I don't have this much money and I haven't called him back yet.

I know this situation sucks, but if I don't have the money, what law penalties, fines, etc. am I facing?

Thanks in advance!

[aaron]

Given that the police weren't summoned, it is (possible but) unlikely that you would be issued a ticket at this late date. Meanwhile, I assume you have resolved the issue of your lack of insurance by obtaining an appropriate policy.

Ultimately, you are going to have to decide how to proceed - to pay him either a lump sum or payments (if he agrees), or to not pay him in which case he may choose to file a police report and attempt to make a claim through your non-existant insurance, or file a small claims suit.

[Q]

Thanks for the reply.

Today he called and left a voice message on my machine, it's been the first time since I heard from him in about a week. He stated that he will file a hit and run to the state police. Can this be filed even though I clearly didn't run anywhere and it's been over 2 weeks since then.

[aaron]

He can file the police report. They will likely follow up by contacting you for your version of events. They may have some skepticism of a "hit and run" claim, given that he has your name and contact information and made no earlier report.