Unless the car was stolen they(Wawanesa) are responsible. Years ago Allstate tried to pull that crap on me and failed when my car was hit and run in front of my house. The reality of the matter is bottom line it is the car that is insured not the driver. The girlfriend of the policyholder’s son was driving and Allstate tried to get out of paying because I couldn’t prove who was driving.
Just before Christmas my daughter’s boyfriend’s car was hit in front of my house. Liberty Mutual dealt with him quite fairly I thought. It was 1991 corrolla in fair condition with over 200,000 and they settled for $1297 total after deducting the salvage value ($181) and giving him credit for recent repairs ($200)
If she has made recent repairs like brakes, tires, or a new battery within the last 6 months she should get partial credit for them. Also she should get some money for each day she has lost use of her car, from the time it was wrecked till they settle she should be compensated for this.
I realize this a a big loss for your friend but I think this is too small a loss to bother with an attorney.
Unfortunately, no matter what, even if you are dealt with fairly you are never going to be made totally whole when your car is wrecked. It’s just the way it is.