Can I File A Claim If My Work Vehicle Is Damaged While Parked During A Storm?
When your work vehicle is damaged by a storm while parked, you may wonder if your commercial auto insurance policy will cover the repairs. Storm damage, more specifically in areas prone to hurricanes, flooding, or hailstorms, can result in significant repair costs. The ability to file a claim depends on the type of coverage you have in your commercial auto policy and the specific circumstances of the damage.
Comprehensive Coverage for Non-Collision Damage
The key component that will determine whether your claim is covered is whether your commercial auto insurance policy includes comprehensive coverage. This type of coverage protects against non-collision-related damages, including those caused by weather events. Comprehensive coverage typically pays for repairs or replacement if your work vehicle is damaged by a storm, regardless of whether the vehicle was moving or parked at the time of the incident.
For example, if your parked vehicle is damaged by falling debris, high winds, or flooding during a storm, comprehensive coverage would likely reimburse you for the costs of repairs. Without comprehensive coverage, you would have to pay for those repairs out of pocket.
Types of Storm Damage Covered by Comprehensive Insurance
Comprehensive insurance generally covers various types of storm-related damage to a parked work vehicle, such as:
- Hail Damage: If a hailstorm leaves dents or cracks in your vehicle's body or windshield.
- Falling Debris: High winds may cause trees, branches, or other debris to fall on your vehicle, causing damage to the body or windows.
- Flooding: Floodwaters can enter the vehicle and damage the engine, interior, or electronics, which would be covered under comprehensive insurance.
- Wind Damage: Strong gusts can blow objects into your vehicle, causing damage to the exterior or windows.
- Fire from Lightning Strikes: If lightning causes a fire or explosion that damages your parked vehicle, it could also be covered.
Filing the Claim
Should your work vehicle sustain damage while parked during a storm, the first action is to carefully record the damage by photographing and noting specifics of the incident. Contact your insurance company then to report the damage and start the claims procedure. Your provider will evaluate the damage, decide whether it fits under comprehensive coverage, and walk you through the following actions.
Conclusion
If your commercial auto insurance policy covers damage to your work vehicle while parked during a storm, you can make a claim. Protecting against many kinds of weather-related damage depends on comprehensive insurance, which also guarantees that your company will have to pay the full cost of repairs.