My car was dinged by a customer while I was getting it serviced. I dropped it off at the dealership, and when I returned, I found a small dent and a paint chip. The person who caused the damage left a note offering to pay for it, but then later claimed the repair costs were too high and asserted that the dealership was liable, stating he wouldn’t be paying. He even mentioned the possibility of small claims court.
I called my insurance company for advice since the dealership claims the situation falls between him and me, as it’s considered a typical accident. However, my insurance representative said the dealership might still be liable due to their insurance covering issues of this nature, and she’s going to confirm this with her supervisor and get back to me on Monday.
Has anyone else faced a similar situation? I know insurance coverage and liability can vary by location.
Edit: The individual left his license plate number, phone number, and details about his vehicle (make, model, and year). Additionally, there’s clear 4K video footage showing him carelessly opening his door into my car with enough force to make it shake. While the dent is in a small area on my leased vehicle, it’s still quite noticeable.
I’m sorry to hear about your situation; that sounds really frustrating. It’s good that you have video evidence of the incident, as that should strengthen your case. Since the person who dinged your car admitted responsibility by leaving a note, that adds more weight to your claim.
While it can be a complicated situation involving multiple parties, here are a few steps you might consider:
Document Everything: Keep a record of all communications with the other driver, the dealership, and your insurance company. Make sure to note any conversations and agreements made.
Contact the Dealership: Since they were responsible for the custody of your vehicle, they may help facilitate a resolution between you and the driver. They might also have insurance that could cover the damage.
Insurance Follow-Up: Continue to follow up with your insurance company. If they determine that the dealership is liable, that could streamline the claims process.
Small Claims Court: If it comes down to it, having the other driver’s information and video evidence might help if you choose to pursue a small claims case. Consult with your insurance or a legal expert for advice on this option.
Know Your Options: Different states have different laws regarding liability and chain of custody. It’s wise to check local laws or consult an attorney if you feel that it’s necessary.
Hopefully, it gets resolved soon and without too much hassle. Good luck!