
This is one of the things that happens when we don't have auto liability insurance. How you proceed depends on your willingness to resolve the claim as opposed to putting up with phone calls, letters, a lawsuit, and other steps which go into collecting a debt like this.
I think your claim about the brake lights not activating will likely have very little effect on the determination of fault. There are situations under which this could be persuasive, and many under which your claims would be falling on deaf ears.
Many of the attorneys who represent insurance companies in cases like yours will work out payment plans to resolve these claims. You will have the best chance of working out favorable terms if you do it before there is actual litigation, commit to reasonable terms that you can afford (be honest with the collection attorney) and follow through on your commitment.
Good luck!
Brian Chase
BISNAR|CHASE, Personal Injury Attorneys.
http://www.BestAttorney.com
http://www.California-Lawyer-Attorney.com
800-956-0123.