If you live in the Northeast like we do, you’re no stranger to potholes. Potholes can cause all sorts of damage to your car, sometimes requiring expensive repairs. Your car insurance may be able to help cover pothole damage if you carry the right coverage. Here’s what you need to know and how to avoid pothole damage in the future.
Do car insurance policies cover pothole damage?
Your car insurance policy may cover pothole damage if you carry Collision coverage. Collision coverage is an optional coverage that helps pay for damage to your car when it hits another car or stationary object.
When you file a Collision claim, you need to pay your deductible before your insurance will pay. A deductible is your share of the cost for a claim. It’s not the same as a premium, which is what you pay to buy an insurance policy.
For example, say your Collision deductible is $500 and the cost to repair your car in a covered claim is $1,000. In this case, you would pay your deductible of $500 and your insurance will pay the remaining $500.
However, if the cost to repair your car is below your deductible your insurance will not pay for anything. While pothole damage can be severe, the cost to repair the damage may not meet your deductible. It may not be worth filing a claim in this case.
What kind of damage can a pothole cause?
Potholes can cause all sorts of damage to your car. Here are a few of the most common issues that can happen after hitting a pothole:
Tire damage
Your tires are the only point of contact between your car and the road, and take the brunt of hitting a pothole. If your tires aren’t properly inflated and in good condition, they will be more susceptible to damage like a blowout. Not only that, but poorly maintained tires will also allow more of the force to travel into your suspension and potentially cause even more damage.
Wheel damage
Wheels can also be damaged by hitting a pothole. This damage can range from cosmetic scrapes to dents in the structure. Dented wheels can compromise the seal with the tires, causing air leaks or even separation of the tires from the wheel.
Suspension damage
Your car’s suspension is a complex system of components, all of which a pothole can damage. Hitting a pothole can cause significant strain to shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, axles and more.
Alignment issues
Even if the individual suspension components are not damaged, the way they are connected to each other can be knocked out of alignment after hitting a pothole. If you feel like your car is not driving straight when the steering wheel is centered, you may need to fix your alignment.
Steering damage
Damage to your steering system is a severe case of pothole damage. Hitting an exceptionally deep pothole can damage your steering column, which can make operating your car unsafe.
How to avoid pothole damage
The best way to take care of pothole damage is to avoid potholes in the first place. Here are just a few safety tips on how to avoid pothole damage when you’re on the road.
Stay vigilant
Keep an eye out for potholes as you drive, especially during the winter and on roads frequented by large vehicles. When the danger of potholes is high, keep focused on the road and be on the lookout for any hazards.
Slow down
Slowing down is one of the best ways to avoid serious pothole damage. If you can’t avoid a pothole, it’s best to roll through it at a slow, constant speed. Avoid slamming the brakes if you hit a pothole, as the load transfer will actually increase the likelihood of damage.
Check your tires
Your tires are the first line of defense against pothole damage. Periodically check that your tires are inflated to the specifications indicated in your owner’s manual or door jamb. Also, make sure your tires are in good shape. Check that there is enough tread left, and that they were manufactured no more than six years ago. If not, it’s time to get new tires.
Inspect your car
After hitting a pothole, take a moment to inspect your car. Look at the wheels and tires for damage, and pay attention to any changes in steering while you drive. Checking your car for signs of damage can help you avoid safety issues in the future. If something feels, sounds or looks different, bring your car to a trusted mechanic.
How to file a claim after pothole damage
If your car has suffered pothole damage, and you want to file a claim, don’t delay. Call your insurance company as soon as possible and report the damage.
We know that filing any kind of car insurance claim, even a small one, can be stressful. Our unique claims services will simplify the process, getting you back on the road in no time.
- File Your Claim
Please have your policy number ready. You can file a claim online or by contacting us or your agent directly. - Assignment and Tracking of the Claim
After you report your claim, you’ll receive a claim number to help track its progress. We’ll also assign you a friendly representative to answer any questions you may have. - Damage Evaluation
If your vehicle has damage and the applicable coverage applies, we offer these convenient options to get you back on the road as soon as possible:- CarPics® Photo Appraisals: Eliminate the need to schedule a claims inspection and receive your estimate within hours. You may even get paid that same day.*
- Crashbusters® Mobile Claim Service: Have a representative meet you to appraise the damage at a time and place that’s convenient for you, often issuing you a check on the spot.
- Door to Door Valet Claim Service®: Let us pick up your car and handle the repair process from start to finish. If you have rental coverage, we’ll even coordinate a rental car.
- Receive Your Claim Settlement
At your option, Plymouth Rock may pay your claim to the repair shop or we may reimburse you directly. Your claim payment will be based on the terms and coverage in your car insurance policy.
FAQ
You can typically tell that your suspension is damaged if you notice a change in driving dynamic. If your car doesn’t drive straight when the wheel is centered, it’s likely you need to bring your car in for service. If your car is shaking while driving, there may be physical damage to your suspension. Take your car to a trusted mechanic if you have any concerns.
Some jurisdictions offer reimbursement for pothole damage on public roads if you file a claim with the appropriate office. Check your local government policies for how they handle pothole claims in your area.
Conclusion – Does car insurance cover pothole damage?
Hitting a pothole can cause all sorts of damage, ranging from cosmetic scrapes to serious suspension issues. Your car insurance can help pay for pothole damage if you have Collision coverage, but it may not be worth filing a claim if the repair costs do not meet your deductible. Contact your insurance company for details on what your policy covers.
Now let’s talk about you
Do you have the right coverage for your vehicle? We’d love to chat with you about it. Call us at 800-516-9242 or speak to a local agent.
If you’d rather not talk, you can get a quote quickly and easily online. Just enter your ZIP code to get started and see how much you could save!
*Certain restrictions apply.
