Leif Olson, Car Insurance Writer
@leif_olson_1
Yes, comprehensive insurance does cover paint damage as long as the damage resulted from something that was not related to a collision with another car or stationary object. Comprehensive insurance only covers non-accident-related damage, such as damage from a falling tree, a natural disaster, vandalism, hitting an animal, fire or theft.
So, if the paint damage was caused by a collision with another vehicle or stationary object, or is just a result of normal wear, comprehensive insurance will not cover it. Collision insurance covers damage from car accidents.
When Comprehensive Does Cover Paint Damage
- The paint damage was caused by an animal.
- The paint damage was the result of hail or another natural disaster.
- The paint damage was caused by a tree or branch falling on the vehicle or hitting the vehicle.
Comprehensive insurance is subject to a deductible that must be paid out-of-pocket. As a result, if the cost to repair the paint damage is less than or similar to your deductible amount, it may not be worth filing a claim, even if it is technically covered.
When Comprehensive Does Not Cover Paint Damage
Comprehensive insurance will not cover paint damage if it was caused by a collision with another vehicle or object, or as a result of normal wear and tear. Additionally, if the damage was intentionally caused or the result of negligence, the insurer may deny the claim.
Does a Comprehensive Claim Raise Rates?
Even though a comprehensive claim may not affect your insurance rates as much as things like an at-fault accident, you still may see a slight change in your premiums after a comprehensive claim. Some states, like California and Oklahoma, do not allow insurance companies to raise rates for comprehensive claims.
To learn more, check out WalletHub's guide to comprehensive insurance.
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