Auto Insurance Claims: insurance claims/reimbursement, lump sum settlement, letter in the mail

Question
My son was shooting at some birds with his b.b. gun and a vehicle passed by at the same time he shot the gun, resulting in their driver side window being shot out.  We made a police report and all and never heard anything back.  This was nearly a year ago and we just received a letter in the mail today saying that we have to reimburse the insurance $550 for the claim.  Nobody ever tried to contact me to settle this matter before they made the insurance claim (I've never heard of a windshield, let alone a window, costing $550!).  I thought that was what insurance was for, accidents!  And the purpose is so that you don't have to come up with the money out of pocket.  I do not plan on paying that much money.  What kind of case do I have?  Can they legally require me to reimburse their insurance company?

Answer
Hi Tracy,

Unfortunately you will be required to pay the money. As a parent, you are legally responsible for the actions of your child. Even though the driver of the car had insurance, you are responsible for reimbursing their insurance company. You can ask them to provide you with an itemization of the costs so you can see what they are charging you for. You may also be able to call them and either make a monthly payment arrangement or even possibly a reduced lump sum settlement for a smaller amount. But, you will have to pay then or they will sue you.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh