Quote: "If it's raining or snowing, they can still ticket you for going the posted limit if it's deemed too fast."
That is true.
Quote: "BTW - don't post on the INTERNET that YOU hit the trailer"
When the police showed up, its obvious who hit who. And its all in the police report anyway. My insurance covers everything.
The roads were actually pretty clear at the time, the ice and slush was all on the shoulders against the divider wall. I went into the left lane to pass someone (im really not going any faster than most ppl, but some folks do 25 on the freeway) and waited to get a bit far ahead of him before merging over so I dont throw salt all over his car. Just about to merge back over when I hit the little pile of slush that had slit out from the wall. Maybe I was going too fast for the potential conditions is various areas, but I don't really care to argue it right now.
I talked with the insurance adjuster, its a total loss. Repairs estimated at over $8k. Radiator, condenser, tranny cooler, frame rails possibly need pulled and repaired. Rear corner panel replaced, both head lights, bumper. Not to mention repainting half the car. Value was increased due to consideration of low miles on the vehicle, premium sound and wheels with brand new michelins on it. The overall condition was considered dealership quality, interior was practically perfect. Value was close to $11k, which I'm going to talk to some people about it before signing the title over.
My friend has the same car, but with the 16" rims instead of the polished 17" I have. I'm allowed to swap the wheels at no loss in value. So I might do my friend a little favor.