Charlene Peele a manager at a local Starbucks was working when her car was totaled by billionaire Mortimer Zuckerman. When confronted by authorities Zuckerman claimed that he left a business card with his contact information.
Mortimer Benjamin “Mort” Zuckerman (born June 4, 1937)[2] is a Canadian-born American real estate tycoon and media proprietor. He is the co-founder, chairman and CEO of Boston Properties, one of the largest real estate investment trustsin the United States. Zuckerman is also the owner and publisher of the New York Daily News and of U.S. News & World Report, where he serves as editor-in-chief. He formerly owned The Atlantic and Fast Company. His personal net worth is estimated at $2.4 billion: Courtesy of Wikipedia.com
Peele states that her car was worth $13,055 but she owed $17,700.00 on the vehicle. Zuckerman’s insurance company is only willing to pay what the car was worth. Peele ” I have been straightforward and honest, but they are playing me off as an idiot. I had a working car. Now I dont , and I have to come up with a down payment for a new one. It’s an insult ” Peele told New York Post Driving his car south on Main Street on a clear, sunny afternoon, Mr. Zuckerman, 76, suddenly steered right, his Lexus striking Ms. Peele’s parked 2009 Ford Fusion, according to the accident report. The impact pushed Ms. Peele’s car, which was parked opposite the East Hampton Presbyterian Church, several feet forward: According to Gawker.com Can you imagine being in this type of situation. One day you are driving to work fine the next day your struggling to come up with a down payment for a new car due to an accident that was not even your fault. I feel Zuckerman should come out of pocket for this single parent and pay for her a new car. Sometimes it pays to do the right thing. Especially when your a public figure. People respect honest hardworking individuals such as Peele and this incident reflects poorly on Zuckerman. Zukerman did not receive any reprimand for leaving the scene of an accident.
“I had no idea who he was, and it’s really not important. I just want this mess straightened out so I can get my car replaced and get on with my life,” said Peele, who is in the process of being transferred to Miami and leaving for Florida in three weeks. “I called Mr. Zuckerman’s office and spoke to his assistant, and said, ‘I just don’t want any problems’ and was told ‘Don’t worry, it’ll be fine,’” Peele said.
What would you suggest Peele do in this situation? She should file a lawsuit? Should she continue to go through the process with the insurance companies like most people would have to do? Let me know what you think… Enough Said, Dr. O
