Commercial Insurance Blog

Fuel from a gas station damaged my engine!  Who pays for the damage? 

What are the signs of diesel fuel in a gas engine?

• Engine misfire

• Sputtering

• Stalling

What are the signs of gas fuel in a diesel engine?

• Sluggish performance

• Engine stops running

• Catalytic convertor overheating

Gas pumps for gas and diesel are different sizes and colors, however if the gas delivery tanker delivers fuel to the wrong underground storage tank you would never know you’re getting the wrong fuel.

If the wrong type of fuel is added to your tank and you notice right away (you're still at the gas station), don’t operate the vehicle.  Notify the gas station attendant on duty and get his or her complete name.  Ask for a receipt for your purchase and try to get the name of their insurance company or agent.

Your next step is to have your vehicle towed to a mechanic. Once secure, contact the gas station's insurance company or agent to submit your claim for any damage to your vehicle as well as the expense you incurred for towing.  If you will need to rent a vehicle while yours is in the shop be sure to inquire after this as well so you understand any procedures in place that can ultimately minimize the pain.

Getting a receipt is critical if you paid cash for the gas to document you did indeed purchase it from this particular station at this particular time.  Bad gas from a gas station usually results in many claims,so the insurance company may already be aware of the situation.

To discuss further with a Gordon Atlantic insurance professional, please call us toll free at (800) 649-3252.  If you have a specific question and prefer to type instead of talk, click below.