Auto Insurance Claims: Civil Case/Shelby&Michelle vs Geico, orange county courts, orange county florida

Question
I was co-signer on my niece Michelles truck on Sept.of 2004. During hurricane Frances of Sept.2004  Michelle Had a flashing red light Planiff had flashing yellow light,Michelle stopped pull out & planiff
hit her Michelle was ticketed.  Michelle payed ticketed but never admitted guilt.  Michelle had Florida PIP/Pd No fault insurance/no bodley injury.    plainiffs insurance co.Geico payed off plainiff. Now Geico has filed with Orange County Florida a Civil Suit against Me & my niece.
Geico is asking for $10000 plus lawyers fees.
Also I had my own vehicle @ time my insurance co. was Progresso but I never told Progresso that I was co-signer on my nieces truck so they will not represent me.
I have to answer back with orange county courts by April 2,2008. I contacted a lawyer who wants $500 to make calls to geico to lower suit, or he wants $300 a hour to neogiate with geico.  I & my niece have no money.
Also there was no injuries @ accident.
Am I responsible for this accident?  By law Michelle had insurance that was required by law for the state of Florida.  Also Question if after hurricane when traffic lights are flashing one way yellow & one way red when is red allowed to go,& if yellow is considered caution & drivers don't attempt to use cause & run through yellow lights. Shouldn't after all lights be considered as 4 way stops this way all drivers are given a chance to go?
Please advise...This has been very up-setting for me.
Thanks...  

Answer
Hi Shelby,

This is a very confusing situation, but I will do my best.

If Michelle's truck had insurance, it should have $10,000.00 of property damage liability coverage to pay for the other persons damage. If the damage is more than $10,000.00 then you and Michelle would be responsible for the balance. Even though you were not listed on the policy, they should pay because you were not driving the vehicle. Also, Michelle needs to contact Progressive to tell them that she is being sued. They will provide her with an attorney. You will have to hire your own attorney to defend you.

I do feel you are correct about the 4 way stop when the lights are flashing. However, Michelle will have to tell her side of the story to the judge. It is possible he may find each person to be 50% at fault.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh