With winter coming to a close, it’s time for many parts of the country to start preparing for tropical storms. Such storms can cause massive amounts of damage, not only to your home, but also to your car. Do you have enough auto insurance coverage to withstand that kind of destruction?
The Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I) says that even with comprehensive auto coverage, you may not be fully protected. Comprehensive coverage will pay for losses caused by fire, falling objects, catastrophic storms, vandalism, or animals. It will also protect your car against flood damage.
What you may not be aware of is that even with comprehensive coverage, your auto insurance does not automatically pay for a replacement rental car while your car is being repaired, or while waiting for an authorization from your insurer to purchase a new one.
That’s why it’s important to review your car insurance annually with your insurance agent to determine the extent of your coverage. It’s also a good time to talk about the need for additional coverages such as rental car reimbursement.
Here are a few more tips if your car suffers storm damage:
- Report damage as soon as possible. If your car is not drivable, your agent or claims center may be able to save you time and money by having the car towed directly to the repair facility instead of to a temporary storage facility. In addition, arrangements may be made immediately to provide you with a replacement rental car, if your policy includes this coverage.
- Know what your deductible is, as well as any additional charges you will be expected to pay before you authorize any repairs. Be sure your insurance adjuster, claims representative or repair facility appraiser reviews the damage with you and explains the repair process, including the use of original or generic auto parts.
- Ask about warranties on repairs. You should also find out if your insurer has a repair facility referral program that offers a written limited or lifetime repair warranty backed both by the repairer and insurer for as long as you own your vehicle.
- Do business only with a reputable insurer. Obtain insurance from companies that have a proven track record of handling auto insurance claims effectively. Get a referral or contact your local Better Business Bureau or State Department of Insurance.