Storm Damage And Auto Insurance Claims FAQ

Will my car insurance cover damage by a storm?

• It depends on the policy you have. If you have a fully comprehensive policy, then there is the possibility that storm damage to your vehicle is covered. You might want to check your policy’s documents for exclusions like driving on a flooded road. Generally, comprehensive car insurance policies do offer storm cover. If your vehicle was damaged by a neighbor’s property, such as a roof tile falling on your car, you should be able to claim repair or replace the damaged part against your policy.

What do insurers define as a storm?

• Storm damage is defined as when your car sustains damage caused as a result of extremely bad weather. Storms are periods when the weather gets violent with heavy rain, snow, hail, and wind. However, you might want to park your car away from trees and falling debris during a storm. If you have a garage and are home, park it there to protect from hail and water damage.

Will my car insurance cover my vehicle being hit by an object during a storm?

• A fully comprehensive insurance policy will also cover damage from falling or flying debris like a tree stem or roof tile. Though, make sure not to remove the debris until you have photographed the damage or the insurer says it is OK to remove it. If your vehicle was damaged by something like a falling tree, you would want to hire a professional to get it removed. But make sure that you have photographic evidence to substantiate your case.

Will my car insurance cover flood damage?

• Flood damage can be very serious for vehicles. Usually, water can get into the engine and will blow the electrics, later leading to rusting and damaging the upholstery. If your vehicle sustained water damage, don’t turn the engine. Some auto insurance policies wouldn’t cover the vehicle for flood damage if it were run through the water or a flooded road. Insurers see that this was avoidable, which means you were negligent in driving through the water.

How can I claim storm damage to my vehicle?

• If your vehicle was damaged after a storm and you want to claim insurance, then start by contacting the insurer as soon as possible after the storm. You will want to make sure that you call the insurance company’s helpline number and have your policy number on hand. Also, make sure you’ve got lots of pictures of the damage and what caused the damage from every angle. When you get in touch with someone from the insurance company, ask them about getting temporary repairs to prevent the damage from becoming worse. Do not proceed without permission, as it may invalidate your claim.

Ideally, it would help if you claimed within a few days of your vehicle getting damaged. The longer you wait, the worse that damage can get, which may also lead to invalidating your claim.