You might be wondering how your auto insurance can assist in the event of a wildfire, an on-freeway collision, or a car that caught fire while parked at home. Even if these kinds of things happen unexpectedly, knowing more about how your policies might work better will help you be more prepared for anything that might come up.
We’ll explain how your car can be protected against fire damage if you have the appropriate coverage. As a useful extra, we’ll also provide you with some safety advice that will assist you avoid harm should your automobile catch fire.
Coverage for fire damage under auto insurance
We sincerely hope that your only exposure to fire has been while roasting s’mores with pals, but you never know when an unplanned car fire can break out. Comprehensive coverage is the recommended option for covering vehicle losses resulting from fire in cases of non-accidental car fires, such as those caused by mechanical issues. Here are some additional scenarios that might be covered by this policy:
Electrical problems like broken wiring or short circuits
Fuel system issues brought on by burst fuel pipes or malfunctioning fuel pumps
Overheated engine that has the potential to ignite nearby items or liquids
Combustible materials used or stored improperly inside a vehicle
Other circumstances that might be covered by this coverage include being the victim of arson or the incredibly uncommon spontaneous combustion that can result in a vehicle fire.
If your coverage is comprehensive, you could already be familiar with how everything operates. However, our team is here to help if you need a refresher. When it comes to comprehensive coverage, you can typically think of it as shielding your automobile from harm sustained in an accident with another car.
You will probably be asked to select a deductible amount when you choose Comprehensive coverage for your insurance. In the event of a claim, you are individually liable for this sum, which varies. This is how it would appear if you had a $500 deductible:
Policy coverage: All-inclusive
$500 is the deduction.
Car damage: Electrical problem results in fire
$4K was spent on repairs.
After submitting a claim to your auto insurance, a repair shop will be contacted. If the estimated cost of repairs is $4K, your insurance will pay the remaining $3.5K to fix the fire damage to your automobile, with your $500 deductible being your only payment.
Now, imagine that you suffered fire damage as a result of a collision. If that ever happens, we advise getting in touch with your auto insurance company immediately so they can guide you through any potential issues.
Tips for safety in case your automobile catches fire
We at want you to feel equipped and ready for any unforeseen situation that may arise while driving. We want you to feel prepared for anything, whether that means offering you advice on how to keep safe or assisting you in selecting the appropriate coverages for your insurance policy.
The following safety advice should be taken into account when controlling and preventing vehicle fires.
1. Maintain your home consistently
Regular auto maintenance and safety checks may keep your automobile in good working order, help you keep its value intact, and reduce the chance of a fire. Every six months, you should think about having your car’s electrical wiring, fluid levels, and leaks checked.
2. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby at all times.
A readily available fire extinguisher in your automobile can be a useful tool if it quickly catches fire and you need to put it out to prevent more damage. These are typically found in homes or businesses.
3. Give importance to safety
Although we sincerely hope you never have to deal with your automobile catching fire, always keep in mind that the safety of you and your passengers comes first. In the event that you see smoke or flames emerging from your vehicle, carefully stop, turn off the engine, and get everyone out of the car right away.
When everyone is secure, dial 911 and, if it’s safe, put out the fire with a fire extinguisher. In the event of an emergency, like a car fire, these practical suggestions can help you stay safe and prepared.
Protection right when you need it
To defuse the tension, let’s review the significance of having the appropriate coverages on your auto insurance policy to shield you and your vehicle from those “what-if” scenarios on the road. When it comes to protecting your insurance against non-accidental car damage, comprehensive coverage may be crucial. The word “collision” describes it all: it can shield your car and possibly even pay for accident-related losses.
In light of this, we sincerely hope that reading this article has inspired you to get in touch with your auto insurance company and ask to have your current coverage reviewed.