Tesla Insurance & U-Haul Incident
I was involved in a four-car accident caused by a U-Haul that fled the scene.
Unfortunately, the police aren’t taking any action, likely because it’s the Bay Area, and U-Haul isn’t being helpful either.
They mentioned that the estimated damage is around $15k total, which would be divided among the four vehicles and could take 6 to 8 months to resolve. My car, a 2025 Model 3 AWD in Quicksilver with only 100 miles on it, is probably totaled, and its value is about $50k. My collision deductible is $1,000 and comprehensive is $500. How much can that actually help with compensation?
I have a Tesla appointment scheduled for March 31, but the accident occurred on February 25. Should I consider suing U-Haul? Will Tesla Insurance take action against them?
It’s frustrating because I anticipated issues with the service and policies.
I’m really sorry to hear about your accident and the frustrating situation you’re in. It sounds incredibly stressful, especially with a new car like the 2025 Model 3 being totaled.
To answer your question about insurance: If your collision coverage has a $1,000 deductible, that means that’s the amount you’ll have to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Since your car is likely a total loss, Tesla Insurance should cover the value of your car minus that deductible. However, it’s important to determine the actual cash value (ACV) of your vehicle at the time of the accident. This value can vary, so you might want to gather some comparables or ask Tesla for their assessment.
As for suing U-Haul, it could be an option if you can identify the driver and vehicle involved. Sometimes insurance companies will go after the at-fault party on your behalf, but it can often be a lengthy process. Contact Tesla Insurance to see if they have experience with similar situations and will pursue U-Haul for you.
Given the circumstances, it might also be worth consulting with a lawyer, especially regarding U-Haul’s liability and how best to proceed. Don’t hesitate to get legal advice if you feel overwhelmed; they might help expedite the process.
In the meantime, keep all your documentation organized—accident reports, photos, and any correspondence with insurance companies—this will help immensely down the road. I hope you can resolve this quickly and that you’re able to get your car situation sorted out. Good luck!