Do Battery-Electric Cars Complicate Claims?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more common on Orlando roads. From Teslas to Chevy Bolts to Ford’s Mustang Mach-E, battery-electric cars are changing the way people drive and the way insurance claims are handled after an accident.
While EVs can be environmentally friendly and cost-effective to operate, they can also introduce unique challenges when it comes to seeking financial relief after a crash. Having guidance from a seasoned Orlando personal injury attorney can make all the difference in securing the financial relief you need to move forward.
How EVs Can Lead to Disputes
Battery-electric vehicles are built differently from traditional gas-powered cars. These differences can impact everything from repair costs to liability disputes.
- Higher repair costs. EV batteries and specialized components can be extremely expensive to repair or replace. Even a minor fender-bender could lead to significant expenses. Insurance companies may try to undervalue claims by arguing that the repair costs exceed the car’s worth.
- Specialized repair shops. Fewer auto body shops are equipped to safely handle electric vehicle repairs. Delays in finding qualified technicians can slow down claims and increase frustration.
- Fire and battery risks. Damaged EV batteries pose safety risks that may require extensive testing or replacement, further driving up costs and complicating negotiations.
- Diminished value claims. Because EV buyers are often cautious about battery history, an accident can reduce resale value more dramatically than with a gas-powered car. Insurance adjusters may resist paying fair compensation for this loss.
Another factor is that some insurers may not be as familiar with the true costs of EV repair, and offer settlements that don’t reflect the actual damage. Disputes can arise over battery range loss after an accident, availability of replacement parts, and repairability determinations.
Should an EV be declared a total loss, questions about salvage value and battery recycling can add another layer of complexity to a claim as well.
Seek a Qualified Repair Estimate
If you are involved in a crash while driving an electric vehicle, take detailed photos of the vehicle, including battery areas if safe, and keep records of all repair estimates. You also want to be sure you are accessing repair assessments from qualified individuals. Only a certified EV repair center can provide an accurate cost evaluation.
Insurance companies may push you to accept less than you deserve, especially if they underestimate repair costs because they are unfamiliar with alternatives to gas-powered vehicles. An experienced Orlando personal injury attorney can challenge undervalued insurance estimates and ensure EV-specific damages are included in your claim. This could involve monetary compensation for battery replacement and diminished value.
Electric cars may be the future of driving, but there are still insurance professionals who are more knowledgeable about other sorts of vehicles. An injury lawyer familiar with EV claims can help you protect your rights and ensure that the unique aspects of your car are factored into negotiations.
Is it difficult for you to navigate the legal nuances of an EV accident claim? The attorneys at Israoui Law are available to guide you through the recovery process. Call 407-381-4529 for the personal attention you deserve. Always speak to an experienced accident lawyer before speaking to any Insurance company.
