Mar 6, 2018
Are You Covered By Insurance If Your Vehicle Gets Damaged In Severe Weather?
Extreme weather events are on the rise. While many associate extreme weather events and home insurance, they also pose an increased risk to your vehicle.
The recent severe storms in Atlantic Canada and the recent flooding in various cities in Ontario are prime examples of how Mother Nature can cause damage.
Many drivers assume they are covered for things like water damage, hail, and fire. But, if you only have the minimum mandatory requirements, you may not be covered for extreme weather events.
Is My Vehicle Protected From Natural Disasters With Insurance?
Basic policies will not provide you with all the protection you need. If you don’t have extended plans, weather damage may not be covered.
Comprehensive provides protection for non-accident related threats and weather events. While all perils provides combines the two, plus additional areas.
What Severe Weather Damage Is Covered By Insurance?
Here is what might and might not be covered. Always check your documents to confirm.
Is Hail Damage To My Car Covered By Insurance?
Yes. Most policies cover hail storm damage. It might be named specifically or fall under storm damage in your document. When big enough, hailstones can do damage to your vehicle’s roof, windshield and body. They cause small dents, and the cost to repair depends on the size of hail, depth and number of dents.
Heavy Rain And Flooding
Going above and beyond basic requirements can provide your vehicle with protection from flooding. Acts of nature of this kind are covered but may be subject to exclusions and limits.
Find your car underwater? Water damage, or rising water coverage, is often included. You are covered for events that are out of your control, such as a lake or river overflowing, or a significant rainstorm.
Wind Damage And Fallen Trees
Strong winds can cause significant damage to your vehicle. Damage from high winds is typically covered. This includes flying debris that damages your vehicle such, as smashed windows, windshield damage, dents, and more.
Falling trees, branches, and other objects are typically covered. It will help pay to repair or replace your vehicle if it’s damaged by a falling tree. You will be covered regardless if the tree is on your property or your neighbour’s.
Wildfire
Fires as a result of a collision with another vehicle or object are covered under collision. This includes fires from faulty wiring, engine fire, natural disaster, fire spreading from a house fire, or a thief burning a vehicle after it’s been stolen will be included in comprehensive.
Lighting
While lightning strikes on vehicles are rare, they do happen. Damage is included in most policies. It will help pay for repairs related to the damage such as electrical issues, car fire, and body damage.
Tips To Protect Your Vehicle From Severe Weather Damage
While many weather events are not preventable, drivers can do a number of things to protect their vehicle. Here is what you can do to reduce the odds of a car insurance claim :
- Park in the garage : If you have a garage at home, use it. Also, park your vehicle underground or at indoor parking lots if possible to reduce exposure to weather.
- Cover your vehicle : If you park outdoors, consider using a cover or hail protector if a hail storm is in the forecast. Covering your vehicle, especially if you have a sunroof, can also help prevent water leaks.
- Pay attention to the weather : Paying attention to the weather forecast can help you be proactive in protecting your vehicle. For example, if flooding is forecast in your area and you normally park underground, consider moving your vehicle above ground.
- Mind where you park : Avoid parking underneath large trees and in areas where the wind could blow objects into your vehicle and cause damage. At home, cut back tree branches so they don’t fall on your vehicle if a wind storm occurs.
- Choose the right plan : While you can’t prevent the weather, you can choose protection for your vehicle.
