Yes, car insurance can cover storm damage, but only if you have comprehensive coverage. Without comprehensive coverage, standard liability insurance will not cover damage caused by hail, flooding, wind, or other natural disasters. To fully protect your vehicle from storm damage, you need to have comprehensive auto insurance.
This type of coverage is vital, especially in Illinois, where severe weather events like thunderstorms, tornadoes, and floods are common.
If you’re uncertain about your current policy, review it today or call Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060 for help.
What Types of Storm Damage Can Happen to Your Car?
Storms can cause various types of damage to vehicles, and knowing what to expect can help you prepare.
Hail
Hailstones, even small ones, can dent your car’s body and crack windows. Larger hailstones, like golfball-sized ones, can cause severe damage, including shattered glass and substantial exterior damage.
Wind
High winds can knock down trees, power lines, or debris onto your car. In more extreme cases, tornadoes and windstorms can flip or severely damage your vehicle.
Flooding
Heavy rainfall or flash floods can submerge vehicles, leading to severe damage to engines, electrical systems, and the interior. In fact, in 2024, an estimated 347,000 vehicles were damaged by flooding.
Lightning
A lightning strike can damage your vehicle’s electrical components or even ignite a fire.
Tornadoes and Hurricanes
These violent storms bring together various hazards—high winds, flooding, and debris—often resulting in severe or total vehicle damage.
What Type of Car Insurance Covers Storm Damage?
The coverage that protects against storm damage is comprehensive car insurance. This coverage safeguards your vehicle against non-collision events, including weather-related incidents.
- Liability insurance covers damage to others but not to your own car.
- Collision insurance covers damage when your car hits something else, but it doesn’t cover storm-related damage.
- Comprehensive coverage covers a broad range of storm damage, from hail and wind to flooding and lightning.
Key Features of Comprehensive Coverage for Storm Damage
- Wide Range of Perils: Comprehensive coverage includes protection against natural disasters, theft, vandalism, and even falling objects.
- Deductible: A deductible typically applies when filing a comprehensive claim. You would pay a portion (e.g., $500), and your insurer would cover the rest.
- Payout Based on Vehicle Value: If your car is totaled (e.g., swept away by floodwaters), the insurer will pay its actual cash value (ACV), minus the deductible.
When Would Storm Damage Not Be Covered by Car Insurance?
There are specific scenarios when storm damage would not be covered:
No Comprehensive Coverage
If you only have liability coverage, storm damage is not covered. For example, if a tree branch falls on your car during a storm, you’d have to cover the repairs yourself.
Last-Minute Coverage
You cannot add comprehensive coverage just before a storm hits. Insurance companies typically impose a “binding restriction” when a storm is imminent, preventing last-minute policy changes.
Negligence or Maintenance Issues
If the damage is caused by your own negligence, such as leaving windows open during a rainstorm, your claim might be denied. Similarly, if a tree falls due to poor maintenance, the insurer might not cover the damage.
How to Protect Your Car from Storm Damage
While insurance helps after the fact, prevention is key to avoiding damage.
Park in Safe Locations
If possible, park your car in a garage or under a solid cover to protect it from hail and falling debris.
Use a Weatherproof Car Cover
In case you have to park outside, invest in a weatherproof car cover to protect against hail, rain, and flying debris.
Monitor Weather Alerts
Stay informed about weather conditions, especially during storm seasons. If a flood or hurricane is coming, move your vehicle to higher ground.
What to Do if Your Car Is Damaged by a Storm
If your car sustains storm damage, follow these steps for a smooth claims process:
- Ensure Safety: Make sure everyone is safe before assessing damage.
- Document the Damage: Take clear photos or videos of the damage from multiple angles.
- Contact Your Insurer: Report the claim to your insurance provider as soon as possible.
- File the Claim: Your insurer will guide you through the claims process, which might include an inspection by an adjuster.
- Pay Your Deductible: After the claim is processed, pay your deductible before repairs or payout begin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does my car insurance cover storm damage?
A: If you have comprehensive coverage, then yes, it covers storm-related damage. If not, your liability insurance will not cover the damage.
Q: What does comprehensive insurance cover for storm damage?
A: Comprehensive insurance covers:
- Hail damage
- Flood damage
- Wind and tornado damage
- Falling objects like trees
- Lightning and fire damage
Q: When is storm damage not covered by car insurance?
A: If you don’t have comprehensive coverage, if you add coverage last-minute, or if the damage is caused by negligence (e.g., leaving windows open), it won’t be covered.
Q: Can I add comprehensive coverage right before a storm and have coverage?
A: No, you cannot add comprehensive coverage just before a storm. Insurers typically stop allowing new coverage or changes once a storm is forecast.
Q: What should I do if my car is damaged by a storm?
A: Ensure safety, document the damage, contact your insurer, and file a claim. Follow your insurer’s instructions for repairs or settlement.
Q: Will filing a storm damage claim raise my insurance rates?
A: A comprehensive claim for storm damage usually has a small impact on your rates. It’s less significant than an at-fault accident claim.
Q: Does car insurance pay if a tree falls on my car during a storm?
A: Yes, comprehensive coverage will cover damage from a falling tree, as long as it’s not caused by negligence.
Q: Is comprehensive insurance worth it for storm protection?
A: Yes, especially if you live in areas prone to storms. Comprehensive coverage can save you thousands in repairs or replacement costs.
Get a Quote Today!
Protect your vehicle from storm damage by ensuring you have comprehensive coverage in place. If you’re unsure about your policy, call Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060 or get a free quote online today. We’ll help you find the best coverage for your needs, ensuring peace of mind when storms roll in.