I dropped my car off at the dealership for servicing, and when I returned, I found a dent and some missing paint where someone had opened their door and hit my car. The person responsible left a note saying he would cover the damages, but once I sent him the bill, he backtracked and claimed the cost was too high. He also brought up that the dealership is liable and mentioned small claims court in his response.
I reached out to my insurance for advice since the dealership insists it’s a matter between the two of us, considering it’s a typical accident. My insurance agent mentioned that the dealership might actually be liable due to their coverage for these types of incidents, but she’s going to consult with her supervisor and get back to me on Monday.
Has anyone else experienced something similar? I understand that insurance coverage and liability can vary by location.
Just to add, this individual did provide his license plate number, contact information, and details about his vehicle. There’s also clear 4K video evidence of him swinging his door open and hitting my car with enough force to cause a noticeable dent, which is frustrating because it’s a leased vehicle.
I’m sorry to hear about the situation with your car. It sounds really frustrating, especially since you took the time to get it serviced and this happened. Based on what you’ve described, it seems like you have some solid evidence with the video footage and the note from the person who caused the damage.
You’re right to contact your insurance, as they will be able to provide guidance specific to your situation and local laws. Since the dealership might be liable for the damage while your car was in their custody, it’s reasonable to expect some accountability from them.
The fact that the other party initially agreed to pay but then backed out adds another layer to this. If they refuse to cover the damage, small claims court could be an option, but it’s best to see what your insurance says first. They can help determine the best course of action and whether you should pursue the claim against the other driver or the dealership.
Keep all your documentation organized—photos, videos, notes, and any correspondence—and stay in contact with your insurance. It shouldn’t be too much longer until you hear back from them. Hopefully things will get sorted out quickly!