WChip
Feb 21 2008, 02:49 PM
I had the misfortune of stopping at a gas station which had accidentally filled their gas tanks with diesel fuel. I had 5 and a half gallons of regular gas in the tank and only had some acceleration problems in the last 15 miles of my 70 mile journey after doing so- when I later moved the car a short distance from the street to my friend's driveway things seemed way messed up - there was also a nasty belch of smoke when I stopped. Considering it overnight it seemed worth calling the gas station to see if there was a problem with the gas. They said diesel had been put in their gas tanks and their home office people said they would cover any costs. I filed a complaint with the AG's office and contacted my insurance just to let them know this had happened. The garage AAA dropped it off at has been slow and not very interested in doing the job it seems-they've now given me quotes ranging from $800 to $2200 depending on whether a basic flush and clean does the job or if other components need to be replaced. Hopefully the gas station won't balk at these prices-the garage said they'd fax the estimates. I'd also like reimbursement for the rental car I now have and the extra couple of days my dog was in the kennel. Anyone had any experience with something like this? Any things I should also do? Thanks!
jeffrey3410
Feb 26 2008, 08:54 AM
sorry about the car trouble.
my partner and I have several misfortunes with contractors, car repairs, etc.My partner and I had developed strong stomach with these kind of things. Lowes delivered to us the wrong door we custom ordered, and we didn't realize that it was not the door until it was installed. After fighting with them for a month (and said that they can't give us the door we wanted), we settled by having them pay everything. But it was a lot of hardwork to get even--- and if we have given up on our case, it is not the $1500 loss, but the principle that we are not going to get f*cked over is most important to us.
I would avise that you to call them (gas station and insurance company) constantly. get a status of where your claims are with your insurance.
did the garage fax the estimates yet. Did the gas station receive it? your insurance may cover the rental car (did your policy state that?), but if not, get the gas station to say that they will cover it. You have to be aggressive (but not rude) with these people--- always get their name when you call, document it. The ultimate game here is to get you tired of chasing things to get done--- because if you do, then you won't get the damages covered.
And one thing--- gas station cannot balked on the repairs your car needs due their negligence. So if the car repair shop states that it would require $2500 of repair, then $2500 it is--- unfortunately, the kennel cost may not get reimbursed, but concentrate on the biggest expense (your car).btw, did the gas station send you a letter stating that they will reimburse 100% of the damages? if they haven't, ask them to write you that letter (pick it up yourself)--- if they ask why, tell them your insurance people need it. This is your only proof that they are admitting they made a mistake and that they are to correct the problem.
Hopefully this wouldn't get to this point, but if you are getting the run around, I would advise that you get a lawyer. Get your car fixed, and then sue them and then call the media.
Good luck.
WChip
Feb 26 2008, 05:23 PM
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. The garage did fax the potential list of things they may be doing and I have been in touch with one particular person at the company a couple of times, once them calling to see what was happening with the estimates- he said they'll take care of the extra kennel days, too. The garage has been slow to let me know exactly what's happening, but the gas company has been good so far. I should have a bill to them by next week and if they don't respond promptly, I won't let up on them- thanks again!
shep71
Mar 3 2008, 03:43 PM
It sounds like the gas company is working, and working well with you. Be sure to thank them. At the first read, I was suprised that you reported them to the AG. It completely sucks what happened, and I am sure it has been a burden for you, but it sounds like it was just a mistake. I'm glad to hear they are working with you.
Good luck with this.