Need Help with Insurance After Accident on Newly Bought Car!
I just purchased a car in California and unfortunately, I rear-ended someone on the very same day. I have Tesla insurance on my car at home, which I showed to the dealership to prove I was insured before driving off.
However, since it was the weekend, I wasn’t able to add the new car to my policy right away. I was planning to do it as soon as I got home, but unfortunately, I had the accident before I could make that change.
I’m in a bit of a bind because it’s still the weekend and when I tried to file a claim through the app, the only option available is for the car I have at home, which wasn’t involved in the accident.
What should I do next? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
I’m sorry to hear about your situation—dealing with a wrecked car right after purchase can be really stressful. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this:
Document Everything: Take photos of the damage to both vehicles involved and gather any information from the other driver (insurance information, contact details, etc.). Make sure to document the accident scene as well.
Contact Tesla Insurance: Even if the app isn’t giving you options, reach out to Tesla Insurance directly via phone or their customer service. Explain your situation clearly—they may be able to help you file the claim for the newly bought car.
Claim Filing: Let them know that you had insurance coverage on the car even though it wasn’t officially added in their system yet. They may require documentation from the dealership confirming that you had insurance when you drove it off.
Police Report: If a police report was generated at the scene, make sure to obtain a copy, as it may be required for the insurance claim.
Follow Up: If you don’t hear back promptly, keep following up until your claim is filed. Be persistent but polite.
Dealership Communication: Inform the dealership of the situation as they might need to help with documentation or verification of your insurance status.
Avoid Further Discussions: Don’t admit fault or give any detailed statements until you’ve consulted with your insurance. It’s best to let them handle the discussions with the other party’s insurance.
Navigating this process can be tricky, but staying organized and communicating clearly with your insurance will make it easier. Good luck, and I hope everything gets sorted out quickly!