You can’t avoid potholes, particularly in the winter months and early spring. And the likelihood of potholes increases with harsh weather conditions. Unfortunately, this can also increase your chances of severe damage to your car.
You need to take certain precautions to prevent damage from potholes, like slowing your car down before you hit a pothole rather than slamming on the brakes once you are already over or in one. However, no matter how hard you try and avoid potholes, there will likely come a time when you do hit one and it could cause damage to your car. At this point, you will probably wonder if your auto insurance policy covers pothole damage.
Each insurance carrier and policy is different, but for the most part there is some type of compensation. For instance, you may receive reimbursement for repairs to your car for the damage minus your deductible. Most companies cover you for damage to your vehicle caused by hitting things like a tree, guardrail, and even a pothole if you have collision coverage, according to Insurance Information Institute.
Collision coverage is optional and is added to your regular auto insurance policy once purchased. It is typically sold with a deductible. Collision covers damage to your car that results from flipping over, hitting another vehicle or colliding with another object like a pothole. Collision doesn’t cover wear and tear on your car or tires because of poor road conditions, however.
Keep in mind, that if you hit a pedestrian or another vehicle because of a pothole, you are covered under your liability insurance which you have to have by U.S. law (New Hampshire is the exception) to drive legally.
Overall, your auto insurance company wants you to be a defensive, safe driver who is alert and observant on the road and is always looking out for roadway dangers that can cause damage to your car. However, they also realize that things can’t always be avoided and there could be a time where you will need to make a claim to cover damage from a road hazard.
Even so, it’s always a good idea that you review your auto insurance policy from time to time to ensure your coverage is up-to-date and your provider is keeping up with what you need. If you have questions about certain coverages, including collision or liability, be sure to contact us here at bolt insurance Agency.
