The day my Tesla Model Y was rear-ended for the second time was a day I won’t soon forget. It was a typical morning, and I was on my way to a recording session when the unexpected happened. The impact was sudden, and I could feel the force of the collision as my car was pushed forward. The airbags didn’t deploy, but the seatbelt held me in place, preventing any serious injuries.
After the initial shock wore off, I realized that my car wouldn’t drive. The on-screen alerts were alarming, indicating that the electrical system was unable to support all features and that the vehicle may not restart. I was stuck on the freeway, unable to move, while the other driver was able to drive their car over to the shoulder.
I called AAA for roadside assistance, but they were unable to tow my Tesla due to its unique features. I learned the hard way that Tesla roadside assistance is the way to go in situations like this. After a long wait, the tow truck dispatched by Tesla finally arrived and was able to get my car onto the truck using skates.
The repair process was lengthy and costly, with the total estimate coming in at nearly $20,000. However, since I was not at fault, I would not be responsible for the repair costs. I had to go through the process of filing a claim with Tesla insurance and seeking reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance for my deductible, loss of income, and diminished value.
Through this experience, I learned valuable lessons about the safety features of Teslas, the importance of proper towing procedures for EVs, and the need to advocate for what I deserve from insurance companies. Despite the challenges I faced, I am grateful that no one was seriously injured in the accident.
As my Tesla Model Y undergoes repairs and I navigate the insurance process, I am reminded of the resilience of these vehicles and the importance of safety measures in place. I hope that sharing my story will help others who may find themselves in a similar situation and encourage them to be prepared and informed.
