Whether your car is protected or not from damage usually depends on the type of insurance you have. Most comprehensive car insurance pays the repair costs. On the other hand third party insurance does not cover you against any damage.
However, there is no one rule that each insurance follows. It is important to read the documents of your van insurance very carefully. According to ABI, storm events can cause large financial losses. For example, the severe storms in late 2023 led to thousands of claims and millions of pounds in repair costs.
What Should I Do If My Car Is Damaged In A Storm?
You should opt for insurance to handle such costs. Learn more details about car insurance in this guide.
Wait Before Removing Debris
Do not remove broken glass, branches, or other debris from your car. Firstly, speak with your insurer and tell them about your damages. Moving them early can affect your claim.
Take Photos and Videos
Capture clear pictures and short videos of the damage. This helps prove what happened when you make your taxi insurance claim.
Stop More Damage From Happening
Cover broken windows with waterproof sheets or tarpaulin. If water has entered the car, let it dry naturally if it is safe to do so.
Do Not Try Repairs Yourself
Avoid fixing the car on your own. If your car is flooded, do not start the engine because it may cause serious damage.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Call your insurer as soon as you can. Keep your policy number ready and follow their instructions about repairs and excess payment.
Is Storm Damage To My Car Considered Accidental Damage?
Storm damage is usually treated as accidental damage. But it happens if you have comprehensive car insurance. This means your insurer may pay for repairs if your car is damaged during a storm. However, you should check your policy details because coverage can vary between insurers.
Some policies have limitations on storm damage claims. If you have a third-party insurance, then this policy would not cover you. That means you have to pay for any kind of repairs yourself. Therefore, it is important to ask your insurance and read the policy. It helps to know and understand what will protect you before bad weather hits.
What Storm Damage Does Comprehensive Car Insurance Usually Cover?
Comprehensive car insurance usually pays if your car is damaged by a storm. The other conditions also include heavy rain and severe weather conditions. Therefore, it is recommended that you always check your policy documents.
Falling Trees Or Debris
Your van insurance may cover the repair cost if your car is hit by a flying object or a tree branch. If this happens, it’s necessary to take the photos immediately and inform your insurer.
Flood Damage
Heavy rains can also cause flooding in some areas. In this situation, your car may have been damaged. Comprehensive van insurance helps to cover the cost in this situation. But make sure not to drive the car in deep water. The water can enter the engine of the car and cause some serious damage.
Extreme Hail
Hailstorms can dent your car’s body or crack the glass. Many comprehensive policies in the UK cover hail damage. After a hailstorm, check your car carefully. Take clear photos of dents or broken parts before filing a claim.
Snow, Ice, Or Lightning
Snow and ice can damage your car’s exterior or parts. Lightning strikes are rare but may affect car electronics. Comprehensive car insurance usually covers these risks if your policy includes storm damage protection. Always read your policy details.
When Is Storm Damage Not Covered?
- Damage caused by poor car maintenance is usually not covered. Insurers expect you to keep your car in good condition before storms.
- Parking in a risky or exposed place during storm warnings may cause your claim to be rejected by car insurance providers.
- Third-party taxi insurance does not usually cover storm damage. It only pays if you damage someone else’s car or property.
- Gradual damage from weather, rust, or normal ageing is not covered. Insurance is meant for sudden storm damage, not slow wear.
- You cannot claim for storm damage if your car was already damaged before the storm. The insurer covers only new damage.
- Flood damage may be refused if you knowingly drove into deep water during bad weather instead of avoiding the risky road.
How Can I Protect My Car From Storm Damage?
How can you protect your car from storm damage?
Although you cannot stop storms, you can lower the risk of damage to your car by taking a few simple safety steps. Choose a taxi insurance for protection. Get more details from this guide.
- Park in a covered place: Try to park your car in a garage or under a roof. This helps protect it from hail, falling branches, and strong winds.
- Keep your car secure: Close all windows and lock the doors properly. Remove any valuable items from inside the car. If you have a roof box, remove it before the storm arrives.
- Avoid flood-prone areas: Do not park near rivers, low roads, or places that often flood. Parking on higher ground helps keep your car safe from rising water.
Will A Storm Damage Claim Raise My Insurance Cost?
Yes, making a storm damage claim can sometimes increase your car insurance cost when you renew in the country. When you claim, insurers may see you as a higher risk, and this can lead to a slightly higher premium.
However, the increase is not the same for everyone. Your driving history, location, and car type also play a role. If you have a protected no-claims discount, one claim may not affect your discount. It is always a good idea to compare quotes from different van insurers before renewing your policy. This helps you find a more affordable deal even after making a claim.
Moreover, Quoteradar also offers a comparison of different insurance providers. We also share competitive insurance deals.
Final Thoughts
Storm damage is not predictable. They can happen any time, especially during the change of season. Therefore, it is suggested to check your insurance policy before any uncertain condition. Also, keep your insurance documents upto date. Parking your car in a safe place can reduce the chances of any damage.