Q: I have a story about dealing with an accident away from home.
While driving Interstate 80 in Fairfield, I was sideswiped by a driver trying to avoid colliding with a car it was tailgating. After impact, the driver accelerated toward a nearby exit and disappeared before I could note identifying information.
With significant damage to my vehicle, I drove slowly to a relatively safe place off the road. While I was deciding whether to call 911 or AAA, the Freeway Service Patrol came by and towed my vehicle to a location just off the freeway.
Next, I had to decide whether to leave the car in that area to get it fixed and get home by ride share or a rental car, or to have the car towed home at considerable expense. I opted for the tow.
While waiting for AAA to call me back, I tried contacting my insurance company, was placed on a long hold and disconnected when AAA called me back. It took five hours for the tow to arrive. Fortunately, when I placed a claim with State Farm, I was told that a tow after an accident was included in my policy and was quickly reimbursed the $650 tow fee.
My takeaway advice is to know beforehand what to do if involved in an accident far from home.
As an aside, after the call with AAA, I needed to find a restroom. There was a DMV right across the street. I entered the DMV at 5:04 p.m. There was a sign on the door stating that no one entering after 5 p.m. would be served. As soon as I entered, I was told I had to leave since it was after 5 p.m. I explained my circumstance and that I just wanted to use the restroom. Although there were still dozens of customers in the building, they steadfastly refused to allow me to use the restroom.
Sam Friedman, Palo Alto
A: Wow, what a day! I’m glad you were not injured in what could have been a serious accident.
Q: First, I’d like to say thank you for your column. I truly enjoy reading all the concerns and suggestions people have. I’m not alone.
Second, could you please remind drivers that just because they use their turn signal, that does not mean it’s safe to change lanes? Regardless of how small or large a vehicle is, if other drivers do not see you, how can they react?
David Mendez, Palo Alto
A: You’re right that using your signal does not mean that other drivers have immediately seen it, and understand your next move. A brief pause before changing lanes can give them an extra moment to notice.
Look for Gary Richards at facebook.com/mr.roadshow or contact him at mrroadshow@bayareanewsgroup.com.
