It happened in a church parking lot, and my friend saw it happen. A lady, backing out of her parking space, rammed my friend's car, causing considerable damage. My friend was able to talk to the woman before she drove away. She was distraught and he was distraught. But, after exchanging the appropriate information, they departed to leave it in the hands of the insurance people.

When it got into the hands of the insurance people, the no-fault insurance clause went into effect. Yes, the woman's insurance company agreed to pay the damages — but only up to a point. My friend had an older car. The repairs would cost more than the car is worth, they told my friend. Therefore, we are only going to pay you a fraction of the repair costs.

My friend went to small claims court to try to collect the…