Car vandalism can be costly. In some cases, your insurance coverage may help you cover the costs. It might not be worthwhile to file a claim depending on the situation. You will be able to make an informed decision about whether your car has been vandalized and what insurance covers it.
Many vandalism of vehicles involves broken windows, keyed doorways or slashed tires. The U.S. has recently seen thieves using hacksaws for stealing catalytic converters from hybrid and electric cars. This converters are low in precious metals, which has led to an increase in thefts.
What is auto vandalism?
Auto vandalism refers to the intentional destruction of or damage to vehicles. There are several common types of vandalism, but auto insurance may help you pay for repairs if you have the right coverage. These are some examples of vandalism that you might encounter:
- Car body damage/defacement: Spray-painting, or using sharp objects to scratch paint from the exterior of the car can cause damage. Although minor scratches can sometimes be repaired, these types of damage often require new paint or replacement panels.
- Broken glass and lights: Broken windshields and other car windows almost always need to be replaced, while damaged side or headlights generally require a new part.
- Tires stolen or slashed: Your car may not be driveable if the tires are stolen or slashed. It is a good idea check your insurance policy to see what you are covered for.
It is crucial to start the claims process immediately if your car was vandalized. You must ensure that your insurance policy provides the correct coverage to cover the damage.
Vandalism and car insurance
Although your auto insurance covers vandalism-related damages, it only applies if comprehensive coverage is included. Comprehensive coverage is usually included in full-coverage auto insurance policies.
Comprehensive coverage is an option, and state laws don’t generally require it. If you finance your car through a loan or lease, however, the lender may require full coverage. You should note that the comprehensive coverage does not include personal property in the vehicle, which could be stolen by vandals. Your homeowners or renters insurance would provide coverage for your personal belongings. It is a good idea for personal property to be stolen from a vehicle to speak to your insurance company about the options.
It is not always the best idea to file an insurance claim after your vehicle has been damaged. A deductible is usually required before comprehensive coverage will cover the damage. You might be better off covering the costs yourself if the vehicle’s damage is less than your deductible. A representative can help you determine if filing for a claim would be the best choice.
You can check your declaration page for policy details to confirm that your policy covers comprehensive coverage. To clarify what is covered, you can call your agent or insurer.
Vandalism claims
You should file insurance claims for vandalism as soon as you notice the damage. Before you file a claim with your insurance company, you may need to file an official police report. It is important to understand the steps involved in filing an insurance claim for car vandalism.
Contact the police
First, ensure you aren’t in danger. Vandalism is a crime. If your car has been vandalized you should contact the local police department to file a report. A police report might be necessary if you want to file a claim against your auto insurance. It’s a good idea not to forget about the vandalism. These details will be useful later when you speak with your insurance company.
Make a police report
Sometimes, the police department will send someone to the scene. If they do send someone, they might want to inspect your car. You may have to file the police report over the phone if no one is there at the time. Give as much detail as possible and be completely truthful. Request a copy of your report. You may need it for your insurance representative.
Contact your auto insurer
To file a claim, contact your auto insurance as soon as possible. You can file a claim over the phone. Some insurers also offer online tools or mobile apps that enable you to do so. Most likely, the insurer will ask you for the following information: the date and hour of the incident, the location of the damage to the vehicle, the address where it was parked, and the number of your police report. This information is important to have when you file a claim.
Meet the claims adjuster
Vandalism claims may require that the vehicle be inspected by a claims adjuster. The adjuster will make a note of any damages and then give you the next steps to claim.
Repair the car
After your auto insurance approves your claim take your vehicle to the repair shop. You may be provided with a list by your insurer of preferred repair facilities. However, you have the option to use any facility that is not on their list. The process may take longer if you don’t use the recommended shop by your insurer.
Questions frequently asked
What happens if your policy doesn’t provide comprehensive coverage?
If your policy does not include comprehensive coverage, you will not be covered in case vandalism causes damage. Most likely, your insurance provider won’t allow you to add comprehensive coverage retroactively. It may be worth adding comprehensive coverage to your policy in the future if you are worried about vandalism to your vehicle.
What is the cost of full coverage insurance?
Full coverage auto insurance’s cost depends on many factors such as your driving record, age, location, and other factors. We recommend getting quotes from several insurers to find the best policy.
What are the types of incidents that comprehensive auto insurance covers?
Comprehensive coverage offers protection against a variety of events. Comprehensive coverage may be included in your auto policy. This will cover you for damage caused by natural disasters, fires, riots and vandalism as well as theft, falling objects, and collisions with animals. Every company’s coverage is different so speak to your agent to discuss the details of your policy.
