Need advice on a recovered stolen vehicle insurance claim (Maryland / Tesla Insurance)
My vehicle was stolen and later recovered in another state. Tesla Insurance initially on April 6th mentioned total loss pending evaluation, but on April 10th after NYPD found it then later stated there was “no apparent damage,” and now says they cannot properly inspect the vehicle because the key was stolen with the car and I do not have a spare.
The vehicle is currently still at Copart under Tesla Insurance handling, not in my possession. The adjuster is now telling me I must arrange and pay upfront for rekeying/remotes before they can continue inspection, and then seek reimbursement later under the policy.
My issue is: how am I reasonably supposed to coordinate rekeying/testing for a vehicle I cannot access or operate, in another state, while it is still under their handling?
I’m cooperating with the claim, but I’m trying to understand:
- What are my actual obligations here?
- Is the insurer’s position reasonable?
- Should they be handling the rekey/testing process while the vehicle remains at Copart?
- Is this something worth consulting an attorney over, or still within normal claims handling territory?
Trying to approach this professionally before escalating further. Any insight appreciated.