Navigating Post-Accident Repairs: When Your Car Won’t Start After Service & Insurance Denies Responsibility
Experiencing a car accident is stressful enough, but complications can often arise during the repair process, leaving vehicle owners feeling stranded. Recently, I found myself in this challenging situation after being rear-ended by another driver and undergoing repairs through their insurance company. Here’s a detailed account of what happened and some insights on how to handle similar scenarios.
The Incident and Initial Repairs
A few weeks ago, I was involved in a rear-end collision. The at-fault driver’s insurance promptly accepted responsibility, and my vehicle was directed to one of their authorized repair shops to address the damages — primarily to the rear bumper and backup camera system. Throughout the repair process, the shop kept delaying the pickup date, but eventually, I received a call confirming my car was ready for collection.
Unexpected Post-Repair Issue
Upon arriving to retrieve my vehicle, I was surprised to learn that it wouldn’t start. The shop claimed there was now an electrical wiring issue, asserting that this fault was unrelated to the repair work. Worse still, they insisted I was responsible for towing and repairing the car at my own expense, denying any liability for the new problem.
Pre-Accident Condition vs. Post-Repair Issue
Before the accident, my vehicle was in excellent condition, running smoothly with no electrical issues. I had personally driven it to the repair shop, which had conducted multiple diagnostic tests confirming its good health, aside from the damaged backup camera. The only known issue at the time was the visual damage the repair was supposed to fix.
Insurance Response and My Concerns
After raising the problem with the insurance company representing the at-fault driver, I was met with the frustrating response that they wouldn’t cover any additional issues, including the electrical wiring problem that emerged after repairs. Now, I find myself with a non-starting vehicle, a mounting tow bill, and no clear pathway to resolution.
Seeking Solutions and Advice
Has anyone experienced a similar situation? What steps can I take when repairs, initially covered by insurance, result in new issues that are denied responsibility? It feels unjust to be left with a malfunctioning car and unexpected expenses due to someone else’s mistake.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with post-accident repairs can be complex, especially when new problems surface unexpectedly. It’s crucial to document all communication, get detailed repair estimates, and consider consulting a legal professional or an independent mechanic for second opinions. Protecting
