Auto Insurance Claims: Hit by ice from the car in front of me, independent witness, side mirror

Question
I was traveling on I-78 in New Jersey and the car in front of me had a large piece of ice on the roof that flew off and was headed straight for our front window.  I swerved and the sheet of 2 inch ice hit the side mirror and caused over $300 worth of damage.  I was able to get the cars phone number and Lic.  Can you point to something that I can point them to to prove that they are liable?

Thanks

Answer
Hi Zack,

Unfortunately, this will be your word against the other drivers word, unless you have an independent witness who was not in your vehicle.

Even then, it may be difficult to prove negligence. When there is snow & ice on a vehicle, most people remove it fron the glass in order to see, but they do not remove it from the entire vehicle.

You should try to call the other driver and very politely tell him what happened and ask if he will be willing to pay for the damage with out the insurance companies being involved. If he refuses then you will have to deal with his insurance company.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh