Random Rider - I'm so sorry this happened to you, and I agree with what others are saying, that you should pursue this to fullest extent you can to have her pay for your damages.

In no way do I mean this to imply that you were in any way responsible, but as a fellow commuter, and a newbie at that, I can't help thinking that when accidents like this happen we should all try to see if there is anything we can also learn from it about preventing accidents, even ones that are CLEARLY not our own fault. At all times when I am on my bike I wear a bright neon vest (with reflector stripes built in for night visibility as well). I am hoping that this will reduce the chances of just the kind of accident you had. As bright and noticeable as it is, though, I still ride with the assumption that there will be the occasional driver who just doesn't see me and so I'm always on the lookout and don't fully trust any driver. Can you tell us if you were wearing any bright safety clothing, Random Rider, and to the more experienced commuters here, do you think it might have made a difference? Just for you own safety, Random Rider, even though it was not your fault, this incident makes me want to recommend it to you.