Auto Insurance: Claiming For Wheel Damage

If your car's wheel has fallen off and caused damage to your car, you may be able to file an insurance claim. Whether you can claim depends on the type of insurance coverage you have. If you have full coverage, your insurance company may cover the damage to your car caused by the collision with the ground after your wheel came off. However, they will likely not cover the damage that caused the wheel to fall off.

If you have comprehensive and collision car insurance coverage, you are typically covered for tire damage resulting from an accident, theft, or vandalism. On the other hand, tire damage from normal wear and tear is usually not covered by auto insurance. If you live in a state that covers tires and wheels from damage caused by potholes, vandalism, or other mishaps, your insurance may cover tire damage from these causes.

To file an auto insurance claim, you will need to contact your insurance company and provide details such as the location, date, and time of the accident, as well as your policy information. It is important to review your policy to understand your coverage and set proper expectations for your claim.

Comprehensive coverage

Additionally, comprehensive coverage can also protect you if your tires are stolen. If a thief steals your tires off the rims, comprehensive coverage will cover the cost of new ones.

It is important to note that comprehensive coverage does not include tire warranties, specialized tire insurance, or a tire protection plan that covers normal wear and tear on your tires. Normal wear and tear on your tires is typically covered by your manufacturer's warranty, which may cover defects, premature wear, and road hazards.

When deciding whether to file a claim under comprehensive coverage, it is important to consider the cost of repairs compared to your deductible. Comprehensive coverage has a deductible, which you have to pay before the insurance company contributes to the repair costs. For example, if your deductible is $500 and the cost to replace your tires is $450, insurance won't cover anything. If your deductible is $500 and the cost to replace your tires is $600, you may choose to cover the extra $100 out of pocket rather than risking a premium increase by filing a claim.

Collision coverage

The benefits of collision coverage include avoiding out-of-pocket expenses for repairs above the cost of your deductible. It also provides coverage for your loss when your damaged vehicle is deemed a total loss. In some cases, you may even pay nothing at all for repairing or replacing your vehicle when combining collision insurance with other coverage options.

When deciding on the amount of your deductible, it is essential to consider the cost of your car and the potential cost of repairs. Opting for a higher collision deductible will lower your monthly premium, but it also means you will be responsible for a larger portion of the repair costs when needed. On the other hand, a lower monthly premium can provide financial protection in the event of an accident.

To file a claim under your collision coverage, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. They will likely request details such as the location, date, and time of the accident, as well as the relevant personal and policy information of those involved. Providing photos of the damaged vehicles and copies of police and accident reports can also facilitate the claims process.

Claiming without collision coverage

Collision coverage is a type of insurance that pays for repairs when your car collides with another car or object, such as a fence or lamp post. While it is not mandated by state law, collision coverage is required by auto lenders or leasing companies. If you don't have collision coverage, you can still file an insurance claim, but the process may be different. Here's what you need to know about claiming without collision coverage:

Understanding Your Insurance Policy

Before filing a claim, it's important to review your insurance policy to understand what is covered and what is not. In the absence of collision coverage, your policy may still provide some protection. Look for comprehensive coverage, which covers damage caused by circumstances other than an accident, such as flood, hail, theft, or vandalism. Comprehensive coverage can help protect you financially in the event of unexpected damage to your vehicle.

Documenting the Incident

When an incident occurs, it's important to stay calm and take the necessary steps to document the situation. Take photos of the damage, note the location, date, and time of the incident, and exchange information with any other drivers involved. If possible, obtain contact information from witnesses. This documentation will be crucial when filing your claim.

Contacting Your Insurance Company

Reach out to your insurance company as soon as possible to initiate the claims process. Provide them with the details of the incident, including the location, date, time, and any relevant photos or reports. Be honest about the circumstances and the extent of the damage. Ask about the specific procedures and requirements for filing a claim without collision coverage. Each insurance company has its own process, and understanding their expectations will help streamline the claim.

Understanding Deductibles and Coverage Limits

When filing a claim without collision coverage, it's important to consider your policy's deductibles and coverage limits. A deductible is the amount you need to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Coverage limits, on the other hand, represent the maximum amount your insurer will pay out for a covered claim. Understanding these factors will help you assess the potential financial impact of the claim on your end.

Working with an Adjuster

Your insurance company will likely appoint an adjuster to investigate your claim. The adjuster will contact you to arrange an inspection and assess the damage to your vehicle. They may also analyze any relevant reports and interview witnesses. It's important to cooperate with the adjuster and provide any necessary information to support your claim.

Exploring Alternative Coverage Options

If you don't have collision coverage, there may be alternative options to explore. For example, if the incident involves another driver, their property damage liability insurance may come into play. If the other driver is at fault and has insufficient insurance, your uninsured or underinsured motorist property damage coverage could provide some protection. Additionally, consider whether your manufacturer's warranty or a specialised tire protection plan might cover the specific damage incurred.

Remember that every insurance policy is unique, and the steps outlined above may vary depending on your specific situation and insurance provider. Always refer to your policy documents and consult with your insurance company or agent to understand your coverage and the claims process fully.

Claiming with your own insurance company

If you have been in a car accident, it is important to remain calm and follow a few essential steps to ensure your safety and well-being, as well as to protect your rights and facilitate the claims process. Here is a guide on what to do if you need to file an auto insurance claim with your own insurance company:

Stay Calm and Ensure Your Safety:

First and foremost, it is crucial to remain calm and ensure your safety. If possible, move to a safe location away from oncoming traffic.

Notify the Authorities and Gather Information:

Call 911 if there are any injuries, and notify the police about the accident. Exchange information with the other driver(s) involved, including names, addresses, phone numbers, driver's license numbers, license plate numbers, vehicle identification numbers, and insurance policy numbers. Additionally, collect the contact information of any witnesses.

Document the Accident:

Use your phone or camera to take photographs of the accident scene, capturing vehicle damage, traffic controls, visual obstacles, and any other relevant details.

Contact Your Insurance Company:

Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. They will likely request detailed information about the accident, including the location, date, time, and details of what happened. Provide them with the information and documentation you have gathered, including photos and witness statements.

Review Your Insurance Policy:

Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy to understand your coverage, deductibles, and any specific requirements or exclusions. This will help you set proper expectations for your claim.

Work with an Insurance Adjuster:

Your insurance company will appoint an insurance adjuster to investigate your claim. The adjuster will typically contact you within a few days of filing the claim. They will assess the damage to your vehicle, review repair estimates, and may interview witnesses or analyze police reports.

Repair or Replace Your Vehicle:

Choose a repair shop of your choice to handle the repairs. If your claim is approved, your insurer will issue a payment to you or the repair shop, minus your deductible. If your vehicle is deemed a total loss, your insurer will provide a payment for the value of the vehicle, minus your deductible.

Remember, it is important to act promptly and provide as much information as possible to support your claim. Each insurance company and state may have specific requirements and processes, so be sure to review your policy and understand your rights and responsibilities.

Claiming with the other driver's insurance company

If you believe you're not at fault for the damage to your vehicle, you have the option to file your claim with the other driver's insurance company. Here are some things to consider when making a claim with the other driver's insurance company:

No deductible

You will not be required to pay a deductible if you file with the other company. If you file with your own insurance company, you may be required to pay a deductible and then wait for reimbursement from the other driver's insurance company.

Alternative transportation

The other company will likely provide you with alternative transportation or a rental while your vehicle is being repaired. Your own insurance company may not provide a rental if you don't have that type of coverage.

Partial payment

The other company may not agree that their driver is 100% responsible and may only offer to pay a portion of your damages.

Understanding the process

Every insurance carrier is different, but you can generally expect the following when making a claim with the other driver's insurance company:

Contacting the insurance company

If you have the information of the other person involved in the accident, you may call their insurance company to file your claim. Some companies may also offer online claim reporting. If you have an insurance agent, they may be able to help you through this process or provide you with more information.

Timeline for payment

Each company has a different process for managing claims. In general, less complex claims, where everyone cooperates and there are no concerns about who caused the accident or the value of the damages being claimed, usually take the least amount of time.

Choosing a repair shop

You do not have to use a repair shop suggested by the insurance company. However, if your chosen repair shop charges more than the company's suggested shop, you may have to pay the difference.

Rental car

If the other driver's insurance company has accepted responsibility for your damages, they may provide you with a rental vehicle or alternative transportation. Check with the other driver's insurance company to determine if there are any requirements they may have before you rent a vehicle.

Negotiating the settlement amount

If the other driver's insurance company has accepted responsibility for your damages and you have an estimate from a repair facility of your choice, share that information with the other driver's insurance company as soon as possible. If your vehicle is not repairable and you believe that the vehicle's value is greater than the settlement offered by the other driver's insurance company, you may attempt to negotiate the amount with them. If you are unable to reach an agreement, you may need to seek legal counsel or file a claim with your own insurance company.

Frequently asked questions