Unexpected expenses from a hit and run

Hi, my name is Jennifer Walters, and I am setting up this fundraiser for my son and Jenny Petersen's grandson Christopher Walters. Most of you know he is one of the triplets.

My son woke up on Sunday and upon going to his car he found that someone had hit his vehicle and left it severely damaged and unable to be driven due to some suspension damage, wheel damage and potentially more. Chris had just finally finished getting his car fixed from an accident that happened in June of 2022 where his insurance had to fight to recover funds for damages due to the other drivers’ fault. He barely had it back from being fully fixed for a little more than a week.

If that wasn't a hard enough blow Chris had to miss work due to not having an operating vehicle, waiting for police to file a report, and dealing with insurance. He received a call later that day and was terminated from his job. As we all know the cost of living is excessively high right now. In Albuquerque car theft is at an all-time high driving insurance rates through the roof.

My son had his vehicle taken to the collision repair shop and there was more damage than originally thought by the insurance adjuster. They are currently working with the insurance to cover the costs over his deductible. What Chris needs help with is the cost of his deductible and the cost of a rental car since he did not have that coverage on his policy to try to compensate for the increasing rates. Which is also the same reason for the high deductible. As of Thursday, the collision shop said they are looking at October 11th for the vehicle to be repaired. It could be sooner, or it could be longer.

Chris must also be able to pay his rent, other bills, and be able to eat. Of course, as a young adult he doesn’t have much if any savings especially after having been at annual training for the US Army for 29 days in May into June this summer. Having already missed that time from his full-time job had taken a toll on his finances. I am a college student (a very broke one) getting my bachelor’s degree and am trying to find ways to help while I still have a younger son at home.

The deductible is $2000 and currently the rates we are seeing for a rental car for the period now up to October 11th is at least $1100 or more depending on any potential deposits. Albuquerque car rental places give local residents more rules and requirements due to crimes and issues from people abusing them. The money will also help to provide some gas to be able to look for a new job and or go to any interviews.

I know that this is a big ask and we would rather not have to but unfortunately, I am 1500 miles away and can’t just go drive him around myself or I would definitely do that.

If you can’t donate or want to donate a different way, I can provide alternative methods. Or we ask for you to share and pray for Chris.

Thank you for your time and consideration. God Bless.