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Other driver's insurance is splitting fault 50/50 but I did NOTHING wrong — what now?

This whole situation has me so frustrated I can barely think straight, so bear with me.

About three weeks ago I was sitting at a complete stop in a parking lot — waiting for a space to open up — when the SUV ahead of me suddenly threw it into reverse and came flying backward right into the front of my car. No warning, no brake lights, nothing. I laid on the horn but it was too late. Good chunk of damage to my bumper, hood is creased, and my front sensors are totally fried.

Here's where it gets infuriating. There was one other person nearby but they had already walked inside by the time the crash happened, so no witnesses. The lot didn't have cameras covering that section — I already asked the store manager.

The other driver told her insurance company that I rolled forward into her, which is an absolute lie. I was stopped. Her insurer called me, asked a few questions that felt weirdly leading, and then sent me a letter saying they're assigning 50% fault to each of us based on "conflicting statements."

I haven't signed or agreed to anything. My own insurer is involved now but they're moving slowly and I feel like I'm just sitting here while the clock ticks.

A few things I'm wondering:

  • Is 50/50 just a starting offer they throw out hoping you'll take it?
  • Does my own insurance fight on my behalf or are they kind of indifferent?
  • Should I even be talking to the other driver's insurer at all at this point?
  • Is getting an attorney actually worth it for a property damage + possible soft tissue situation?

I just want someone to tell me what the actual next steps are here. Feeling really lost.

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