Auto Insurance Claims: Hit and Run, rental insurance, reckless drivers

Question
My husband was recently in a hit and run where the other driver was at fault and left the scene.  My husband followed the car and was able to get his plate # and found the car is registered out of state and it was a rent a car.  The man that hit him does live here in Michigan and went to court and plead guilty.  His only fine was $100 and nothing else was asked or said.  Meanwhile we have a $500 deductible and would like to file a mini tort but the rental insurance company is avoiding our calls as well as our insurance agent.  I guess my question is who is responsible for paying this money?  Are rental insurance companies responsible for reckless drivers or should I just sue the driver himself?  My husband has a witness but would it be necessary if he already plead guilty?


Answer
Hi Kim,

Any law suit filed would be against the at-fault driver. I am not very familiar with Michigan law so it's hard for me to answer specifically. You may have to speak with an attorney in your state to get the proper procedures.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh