Car accidents result in various expenses and vehicle damages. If your car’s gas tank must be replaced after a crash, you might be surprised to learn that is a costly repair. Most likely, the gas tank isn’t the only repair your car will need, and you probably have suffered other damages. You can pursue a personal injury claim against the other driver if he acted negligently, so you can recoup compensation for your losses.
Damaged Gas Tank in a Car Accident
Your car is inoperable without a gas tank. A punctured gas tank is a safety hazard that can cause fires or serious injuries. The average cost to have a fuel tank replaced in a vehicle is $1,188 to $1,334 depending on the make and model of car. Of course, larger SUVs or luxury vehicles might result in a higher expense. In addition to the gas tank, it might require fuel line repairs or a fuel filter, which will add up as well.
You will have to go to a professional automotive repair facility to ensure your gas tank repair is handled properly and that your car is safe when it gets back on the road. If your car’s fuel tank has been damaged, be sure to have the vehicle towed. Keep the tow bill and keep receipts for any rental vehicle while your car is inoperable and being repaired.
How to Prove You Weren’t At Fault for the Crash
If you can prove the other driver acted negligently, you can have a successful personal injury claim. When your claim is successful, you will be compensated for the damages you sustained in the crash. There are four elements of negligence:
Duty – The other driver owes you a duty and that duty is to obey traffic laws and to drive safely so there aren’t accidents.
The duty was breached – You will need to prove the other driver breached his duty. That might be he was following too closely, failed to stop in time and rear-ended your vehicle causing the gas tank damage.
Causation – You must show that the crash was caused by the driver breaching his duty. If he had not followed too closely, then the accident wouldn’t have resulted.
Damages – You need to provide documentation that shows you suffered damages and the total of your losses. Get written repair estimates, keep medical bills, maintain documentation that shows expenses related to your injuries such as proof of missed work and lost wages.
Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney
If a car accident left you with injuries and a damaged gas tank, you should consult with a personal injury attorney. With the help of an accident injury lawyer, you can get your claim on the right track. Personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, so you will not have to pay anything upfront. Your attorney will not be paid until you are compensated for your losses. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form to get your claim on track.
