Such a shame.
A week ago, I opened my car door and dinged the pick up beside me. Chipped the paint. As I started to write a note with my contact information, I noticed a woman approaching with keys in hand. Only one other car was parked with me. I asked if it was her truck. She said, "Yes." I showed her the damage and told her I did it. She thanked me for letting me know. We exchanged insurance info.
Then she said something like how she'd get back to me to let me know about the estimate for the paint and the taillight. I told her that I had nothing to do with her truck's taillight. She said, "Well, you must have hit it with one of your doors. The back door maybe?" Our cars were parked parallel to each other in a parking lot. Both of our grills were at the curb. I showed her earlier where my driver's side door connected with her paint chip. She was driving an extended cab, long bed pick up. I was driving a very small 2-door, 2-seater coupe. There was no way any part of my car could have swung out to smash her taillight. She had nothing else to say. I left and contacted my insurance company.
Today, I had three missed calls from this woman. I answered her on my lunch break. She asked to meet with me to explain the truck repair. I'm like, "What's to explain?" She told me that it would be better to hear it in person. Sensing that she wanted cash in hand, I agree to meet. (At a time and location convenient to me.)
She started off about how hard it must be to be single, working mom putting myself through college (WHAT?). How she applauds my effort and my character for even wanting to leave a note. Then there was a ramble about the economy and how we all have to help each other save money. Finally, she shows me some estimates for repairs and receipts for her car rental. I think I managed to keep a pleasant face. She summed it up with how much better off I'd be if I just paid these expenses, plus the future car rental, myself. Then I could avoid a hike in my insurance and points on my driver's license.
I told her that I was very happy with my insurance company and, if she contacted my agent, she could enjoy that same prompt and helpful service. She tried to change my mind, but I thanked her and told her that I'd be late for an appointment if I stayed any longer. (Not really. Just the gym.) Then she needed my insurance info again because she'd lost it.
Am I alone in thinking this is rude? I'm not from around here, so maybe I just haven't caught on to how the locals operate, but I thought she was rude and greedy.