A Really Rotten Day Yesterday...

[n4gix]

I was involved in a multi-car rear end collision yesterday. I'm okay, but my car isn't... It's still drivable, but with only the right headlight working, not at night.

Road construction along I65 south at the US Route 30 exit was interfering with smooth transitions from 65 to 45, folks kept trying to merge into the long line of cars. Drivers slammed on brakes, eventually resulting in a total of seven separate rear end accidents.

Unfortunately while my rear end wasn't damaged, when I was pushed into the car in front of me all the plastic molding that secures the headlights, turn signals, and the fake grill on my 1995 Mercury LS disintegrated.

It could not have happened at a worse time, as I have to travel to Dayton, Ohio on the 19th. If I don't go, I'll forfeit my four nights of hotel as it's non-refundable...

So, unless I can get the parts to fix the car, buy another car, take the bus, or fly... I lose a lot of money.

[Tom Clayton]

Have you considered renting a car? You can usually get pretty decent rates for smaller econo-boxes.

[Naismith]

Sorry to hear of your troubles. Does your insurance company not give you a rental whilst yours is off the road? I know we whinge and moan up here in BC because we have no choice really in who insures us being all Socialist and all but they really come through when need be. Repairs were made no hassle at all and best of all didn't cost us a bean. 2 years ago my wife was sideswiped by a young lad running a red in an F150 . 3 hours later she was driving home in a new Kia somethingorother.

[aeromed202]

If you're at all handy you can do what I did and cobble together a light that works and points the right way. It just has to work and be secure, not look pretty until you decide what to do when the pressure is off.

[n4gix]

I've just about decided to fly Southwest. Round trip from MDW to DAY would be $105.97. It seems a bit odd that they will charge $305.97, but then give a $200 credit on my statement...

...even without the statement credit, that's far cheaper than either a bus or a rental car! The plus being that it would be far less tiring than a long drive. I get tired just driving back and forth to the VA Clinic about 35 miles round trip!
As for the car, I don't carry collision on a 21 year old car, which would be lucky to get $600 as a trade in on a good day...

[Obie311]

Hi Bill,

Sorry to hear about your unfortunate collision. Southwest is a good choice for your travel dilemma.

Obie

[n4gix]

Ah, I found out the 'catch' for the $200 statement credit. One has to have Southwest's Visa card! So, I applied for it, got instant approval and a new credit line. Happy ending to that little mystery...