[constablechuck]

So a few weeks ago my wifes car was parked on a busy road in Chch and when she returned she saw where her car had been hit in the rear and then found a note on the window with the name and phone number of the person who caused the damage, we called and he suggested that we "let sleeping dogs lie" I told him no, we expect him to pay for the damage, he said he would call his insurer and that was the last we heard from him, whenever we call his secretary says he's out of town on business, so we sent him a letter with a copy of the repair estimate (about $450) and said that we expect payment in 10 days or we were going to have to take him to court, it's been more than 10 days with no response so we are going to follow through and file a claim with the disputes tribunal, I was wondering if anyone here has been through this and has any advice ?

[stu70]

So a few weeks ago my wifes car was parked on a busy road in Chch and when she returned she saw where her car had been hit in the rear and then found a note on the window with the name and phone number of the person who caused the damage, we called and he suggested that we "let sleeping dogs lie" I told him no, we expect him to pay for the damage, he said he would call his insurer and that was the last we heard from him, whenever we call his secretary says he's out of town on business, so we sent him a letter with a copy of the repair estimate (about $450) and said that we expect payment in 10 days or we were going to have to take him to court, it's been more than 10 days with no response so we are going to follow through and file a claim with the disputes tribunal, I was wondering if anyone here has been through this and has any advice ?

Sounds like an episode of soprano "keep it quiet and no body will get hurt". It is very strange he left his contact info yet asked you to not bother him with the costs:confused:
I had someone hit my new car from behind (she forgot the cars now come with brakes). As luck could have it she was a cop's wife and sure enough he comes to the scene within 15 minutes in cruiser (not as the officer responding). Anyways, he asked to settle it for $200. I said NO. I took him to the dealer who promptly quoted $1500 for the repairs. He swore at his lovely wife and paid the dough. No one got hurt.
I'd pursue it till he coughs up. Good luck with it.

[ellenmelon]

maybe head to the citizens advice bureau if you're still having no luck? they'll be able to advise you on what to do next, or refer you onto someone who can. ive found them helpful in the past.
keep on top of it..$450 is a bit of dosh!!

[barryp]

I agree that the CAB would be a good way to go. Strange behaviour.

His insurer is not responsible for payment - he is. His relationship, or lack of one, with his insurance company is not relevant. If you file a damage report, you can pursue a small claim, and the Ministry of Justice's collections unit will recover the money. (Probably won't be necessary.)