Insurance Company Recommends End to Friendship After Fall
Dear Abby | March 24th, 2026 | Letter 2 of 2
DEAR ABBY: A dear friend of 40 years, Dorothy, came to visit me for my birthday. She has visited numerous times over the years, and this was her third trip to my current home. As we were walking into the garage to take my car for a drive, she slipped off a small step and fell, injuring her shoulder and foot. Six months later, she still wasn't healing and said she would file a claim against my insurance to cover some of her expenses (her medical was covered, but she needed more in-home care and had to board her dog for many months). My insurance company has been diligent about investigating the incident and decided I had no liability as a homeowner. They determined that Dorothy's physical condition (diabetes, neuropathy in her feet, obesity) was more likely the cause of her fall and slow recovery. They recommended I have no contact with Dorothy, so we haven't spoken in eight months. When she learns of the insurance company's decision, I suspect she may sue me next. I truly don't feel I am at fault. The area was clearly lit, there was no clutter or other impediments, and she had been up and down that step many times. I'm sorry to lose a treasured, decades-long friendship, but here we are. Am I wrong? -- INNOCENT IN THE WEST.
DEAR INNOCENT: You are wrong to end a 40-year friendship because some employee at an insurance company told you not to speak to Dorothy eight months ago. What you should have done then was tell your friend to contact her insurance company so the two companies can thresh out in court who is responsible for what and to what degree. It may not be too late to revive the friendship if you give her a call now.
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