What Happens if Your Car is Damaged During a Hurricane?

Does Car Insurance Cover Storm Damage?

Many drivers suffered car damage when hurricane Ian plowed parts of Florida’s west coast. The question most were asking was whether their car insurance would pay for the damages. So, does car insurance cover storm damage? It depends on the insurance policy you purchase.

If you live in a storm-prone area, it’s a good idea to insure your car against such damages. Setting aside enough cash to repair your house and vehicle can be challenging. That’s why insurance might be the best way to handle such losses.

But how should you go about it? First, understand the policy you need to buy.

Which Insurance Policy Covers Car Damages from Storms

Some motorists only buy mandatory insurance coverages to save money on car insurance. Like other states, Florida requires every driver to have liability insurance. This policy includes property damage liability and personal injury liability to third parties. That said, this policy doesn’t cover damage to your car.

To cover damages from hurricanes and tropical storms, you need comprehensive coverage. This type of policy covers damages beyond your control, such as theft, vandalism, falling trees or rocks, animal accidents, storms, and flood damage.

Why You Need Comprehensive Coverage Before the Hurricane Warning

According to the National Hurricane Center, Florida had 35 major hurricanes between 1851 and 2004. That makes it the most storm-prone area in the U.S. For that reason, buying comprehensive coverage in Florida is worth it. Even if your specific area doesn’t have frequent storms, a comprehensive policy will still cover damage caused by other issues.

So, when should you buy the policy? Buy the policy before the storm warning. Insurance companies understand people can make a last-minute rush after hearing a storm warning. This significantly increases liability.

For this reason, insurance firms issue a moratorium that locks out new applicants. During the moratorium period, you can’t make changes to your policy. So, get the coverage immediately after you buy a new or older car. That’s the best way to secure one of your most treasured assets.

Now, let’s discuss the steps you need to take once the hurricane occurs.

What to Do When a Hurricane Damages Your Car

After a hurricane damages your car, call your insurance company to begin the claim process. The company will send an adjuster to assess the damage. It’s better to have pictures of your car before the hurricane for a comparison.

The adjuster will record all parts that need replacement and get a price estimate from a repair shop. Like auto accident coverage, you’ll still need to pay your deductible. As is standard practice, if you pay a low car insurance premium, you’ll pay a higher deductible, and vice versa.

Assume you have a $500 deductible, and the adjuster estimates the repair cost to be $3,000.00. First, you’ll pay the deductible of $500, and the insurance company will pay the balance of $2,500. If you lower your deductible, the insurance company will pay more compensation, but you will also pay more to insure.

If the repair cost is equal to or close to your deductible, you may not see the need to file a claim. On the other hand, if the car is totaled, the insurer will pay the lion’s share. In some instances, the insurance company may also cover your rental car if you decide to get one while waiting for a replacement.

How to Protect Your Vehicle from Hurricane Damage

Even with full coverage, it’s always a good idea to protect your car from storms. Such a plan might help avoid significant damage. Below are some steps you can take:

• Park your car in a safe area – Ensure you don’t park near trees or power lines. Usually, a garage is a safer area because it protects your vehicle from any debris that comes with the wind.

You can cover your car to prevent scratches. Doing so can also prevent water from getting to the electrical systems in your vehicle.

• Keep your car documents safe – You’ll need your insurance and car registration documents to file a claim. So, ensure these documents are safe by keeping them separate from the car.
• Take photos of your car – It’s good to always have photos of your car, more so when you’re alerted to a hurricane warning. Such shots help in damage assessment.
• Take precautionary measures – Keep up with the news to know what the best action is—whether you might need to leave or stay in your house. Plus, ensure your car has enough fuel in case you need to leave.

There’s much you can do to protect your car, but Mother Nature is always powerful and sometimes unpredictable. That’s why buying comprehensive insurance coverage is a smart idea. It will help you get back on your feet if your car is totaled.

Contact Coleman Insurance to Find Affordable Auto Insurance Coverage in Florida

Coleman Insurance Agency can help you find the best car insurance in Clearwater. We don’t just help you get coverage; we also help you file a claim with car insurance companies. Call us today if you need car or homeowners’ insurance in Clearwater.