In the wake of Hurricane Sandy and the amount of damage it caused on the east coast this week, we wanted to talk about the importance of having comprehensive coverage on your vehicle. Comprehensive coverage is a non-liability coverage not required by policy makers in every state. It covers damage done to your vehicle by weather like hail, flooding, and wind. It will also cover falling objects on your car like a tree limb or branch. Finally, it covers you from animal damage, like hitting a deer. Depending on your policy when you set it up with an insurance carrier, there’s usually a deductible required. They can range in cost and you should review your policy if you’re unsure what it might be.
Damage from water can be quite extensive. Flooding often causes the vehicle to be scrapped right away and deemed totaled. Electrical components and engines are flooded and simply cost too much to repair, or more than the vehicle is worth. In those cases, it might be more beneficial and financially sound to total the car and look for a new one. However, sometimes the damage can be repaired. Your insurance will cover the costs minus your deductible. Especially with fallen tree branches and limbs the damage might not be as insurmountable as you’d expect. A large dent on the hood or roof is an inconvenience, but you can have your vehicle back to normal fairly quickly.
If your vehicle hasn’t been completely submerged it might be a good idea to have it brought in for a diagnostic test. Initially it might seem ok to drive once dried out, but upon further review you might find additional problems. Only 76 percent of auto policy holders do have comprehensive coverage, according to the Insurance Information Institute. In most states, a comprehensive provision in your policy costs less than $150. If you don’t have it already, you should look into adding it on to your policy in the event of an emergency.
