Auto Insurance Claims: Claim denied, pick up truck, insurance company

Question
When I was driving in the central line of a three-line road last week, a pick-up truck traveling in the left lane crossed the line and scratched the left rear side of my car.  After both cars stopped, the other driver came to me and admitted it was his fault.  We then exchanged insurance information.  It turned out we both have the same insurance company.  I made the claim right after I came back home.  Yesterday, an agent called me and said that the other person claimed that I should be responsible for the accident.  After reviewing the stories from both sides, the agent told me they would not pay for the damage to my car from that person's policy since neither of us have witness.  I can only use my own policy for repairing after the deductible.  My questions are: 1) what should I do about this? 2) A friend of mine came to the scene after the accident and heard that the other driver said he was sorry and it was his fault.  Can my friend be a witness in this case? 3) If I accept the company's current decision about the claim, would that affect my premium in the future?  Many thanks in advance for answering my questions and giving me advices. - Juan

Answer
Hi Juan,

This is a tough situation. You can try to use your friend as a witness but since he is your friend it will not hold much weight. You may just have to let this go and have your policy pay for your repairs. And yes, this will be counted as an at fault accident. They can not change your premium until your policy renewal date. You should ask your agent how your premium will be affected.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh