January 26, 2021
Agency
Protecting Your Vehicle from Storm Damage
Now is the time to start thinking about the seasonal weather changes that will accompany the coming spring. As warm fronts drive out the cold, they will bring inclement weather with them, including the risk of hail, tornadoes, floods and more. Of course, if this weather strikes, then it will leave damage behind.
One piece of property that is always susceptible to weather damage is your car, which is exposed to the elements most of the time. Even though they are durable, cars cannot withstand everything, including the ramifications of severe weather.
Damage Risks from Storms
Any type of severe weather could lead to damage to your car:
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Lightning strikes might damage internal systems or cause a vehicle fire.
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Falling branches, projectiles or hail might hit the vehicle, causing dents, broken glass and more
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Larger falling objects like falling utility poles or falling trees might crush the car.
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Open windows or leaky seals might lead to interior water damage.
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A vehicle caught in floodwaters could face significant interior and exterior damage.
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High winds can lift, flip or fling cars into other objects.
These damage risks are present in any kind of bad weather, whether it be a simple rain shower or a more severe event.
Auto Insurance and Storm Damage
If your car does sustain storm damage, then you might have coverage for it within your auto insurance, provided that your plan contains comprehensive damage insurance. Comprehensive coverage is a specific type of coverage that covers damage to your vehicle for anything other than a collision. It will cover damage from fires, theft, vandalism and yes, severe weather.
Your auto plan will not automatically include comprehensive coverage when you buy it. Therefore, you must ask your agent to add it to your policy when you enroll. Additionally, comprehensive coverage will include deductibles, coverage limits and exclusions for certain damage. As a result, it’s important to work with your agent to determine precisely how to structure your plan to your advantage.
Preventing Storm Damage Risks
You should only drive in inclement weather if it’s absolutely necessary, and in very severe weather, it’s best to pull over and wait out the storm. If you cannot park in a parking lot, then stopping under a sturdy bridge, or simply pulling onto the shoulder of the road and arming your hazard flashers, is one of the best ways to avoid a very dangerous accident.
Additional ways to protect your car from storm damage include:
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Parking in a covered garage or deck whenever possible.
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Using a protective cover on your vehicle when you park outside.
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Always keeping your windows rolled up and locked.
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Covering truck beds with tarps.
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Moving the vehicle away from fall hazards, such as telephone poles or trees.
It can be hard to determine how to set up your comprehensive car insurance. Your auto insurance agent can be a valuable source of help in getting the right policy. For more information, contact one of our team members today.
Categories: Blog
Tags: auto insurance