Auto Insurance Claims: liability, rush hour traffic, payment arrangement

Question
My 17 yr old daughter rear-ended a car, which rear-ended another car.  We do not feel that it was all her fault. It was stop and go, bumper to bumper, rush hour traffic. It was raining, there was ice on the road, and both of the other drivers admitted to having to break quickly (I came to the scene, and I belive they said "slam on the brakes," but I'm not sure about how they said it). The cop arrived, very late due to lots of other accidents, and did not give my daughter a ticket.
Two days later I learned that my insurance coverage (and my daughter's) has lapsed. Now, both of the other driver's insurance companies want me to re-imburse them for the damage. The claims are for $2,597 and $9,252. Should I pay these insurance companies? Do you think they will take me to court? What is the outcome if we go to court?

Answer
Hi Tom,

Unfortunately, the law requires that all drivers be able to maintain control of their vehicle regardless of conditions, traffic or weather.

Anytime you rearend another vehicle, you are considered 100% at-fault even if the other vehicle slammed on their brakes and even if there is ice on the road. You must maintain a safe distance and speed to react to any situation that may arise.

You and/or your daughter will have to pay for these damages if you do not have insurance. You can contact the insurance companies involved to try to make a payment arrangement that is acceptable to both of you. Sorry for the bad news.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh