Does Car Insurance Cover Vandalism?

When vandals strike, car owners often wonder if their auto insurance will help pay for repairs. Vandalism is typically covered under the comprehensive portion of your auto insurance policy. Your risk for vandalism is something to consider when deciding whether you need comprehensive coverage.  

Read on to learn the factors involved in insurance coverage if your car is vandalized. 

What to Do if Your Car Is Vandalized 

If you discover your car has been vandalized, leave the area and call 911 if you have any suspicion the vandal may still be in the area or if you are in any way in an unsafe situation. 

When it’s safe to do so, check the car inside and out to see what was damaged. Check to see if anything has been stolen. Take photos of the damage, contact the police and file a police report. This evidence can help you if and when you file an insurance claim. 

Circumstances Covered Under Comprehensive Coverage On Your Auto Policy 

Vandalism, when someone intentionally damages your vehicle, typically is covered under your automobile policy’s comprehensive coverage. Typical damage could include slashed tires, broken windows or lights, scratched or “keyed” paint, dented body panels or the adding of substances to your gas tank that could harm your engine. 

While comprehensive coverage provides protection for broken windows, it may not cover weather-related damage occurring after the glass has been broken. It’s important to protect your car from further damage, so park your damaged car in a garage if that’s possible. If not, protect the interior by covering the broken glass area until you can get it repaired. 

Keep in mind that you most likely have a deductible on your comprehensive coverage. That’s the amount you are responsible for before your insurance company pays a claim. Your deductible amount was established when you set up your policy and will be listed in your policy documents. Deductible amounts vary, but often range between $500-$2,000. If the cost of the damage is less than your deductible, you’ll be responsible for paying for the damage out of pocket.  

Evidence You’ll Need to Provide When Submitting a Claim 

To file a car vandalism insurance claim, contact your insurance company. Your agent or representative will tell you what you’ll need. Typically, you’ll want to provide as much information as you can, including your description of what you found, any photos or other documentation as well as the police report.   

Can a Vandalism Claim Raise Your Insurance Rates? 

It’s possible that a vandalism claim will raise your insurance rates. You can ask your agent if that’s likely and decide whether you want to file a claim based on the amount of damage and the risk of a rate increase.  

It’s possible, for example, that it might make sense to pay out of pocket for a slashed tire claim, but to then file a claim for multiple dents and scratches that require extensive body work.  

You’ll also want to factor in the age, value and condition of your car when you’re deciding whether to file a claim. You may not want to bother repairing a few scratches on an older car that already has some dings if it’s going to increase your rates. 

Get Auto Insurance Advice 

There’s a lot to consider when you’re deciding what types of insurance coverage you need on your vehicle and what deductible amounts work for you. A Farm Bureau insurance agent can evaluate your car, risk and budget and help you choose the protection you need. Reach out today for a professional consultation.