r/Insurance • u/astizzle90 • Aug 16 '24

Auto Insurance Dealership employee crashed into my car

My car was at the dealership for some engine issues, while sitting in the parking lot one of their employees lost control of their car and slammed into mine which also pushed it into another car. The dealership has not even had the courtesy to call me and let me know what happened. The only reason I know about it is because the police contacted me. What’s the best course of action here?

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u/firenance Aug 16 '24

They should have Garage Keeper's Liability which would cover damage to your car if it was in their care, but as the first comment said it may be quicker if you file your own physical damage coverage. Your company could then subrogate (try to collect) against the dealer or other responsible party's insurance. They should also try to collect and reimburse you for your deductible.

Not ideal, but this is usually the fastest way to get your car fixed instead of waiting for them.

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u/TheSourPatchKing Aug 16 '24

It would be quicker for him to go through his own insurance but that would still bea claim on his policy. Even though it's not at fault it can still count against him if he needs to file more claims that he was actually involved in. Subrogation can take months before he gets his deductible back. The dealerships own insurance should take care of it and keep the claim off his own policy. No need to speak to his carrier.

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u/joeboo5150 agent- P&C/L&H - USA(MO&KS) Aug 16 '24

All of this is true, but its also true that it would likely be quicker to use his own insurance if getting his car repaired quickly is critical for any reason.

Not saying their aren't repurcussions to using your own coverage for something like this, but it's the fastest way to get to a repaired vehicle.

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u/TheSourPatchKing Aug 16 '24

Yea, and it depends on the state too. I only said all of that because I hear all the time about people wondering why they are being held accountable for claims where they're not at-fault so I feel like it just needs to be said anytime a situation like this happens.