Does My Car Insurance Cover Cosmetic Damage?

Car maintenance can be expensive. Knowing the type of damages that your car insurance can cover helps you to prepare better for any eventualities that may occur. One such damage type is cosmetic damage to your car, which varied factors may cause. This blog will discuss the coverage options available to you for repairing dents, scratches, and other cosmetic damages to your vehicle and also help you understand when to file a claim for such damages.

Should You Always File a Claim for Cosmetic Damage Repair of Your Car?

If your car insurance policy includes collision coverage and comprehensive coverage, the cosmetic damages to your car may be covered by your insurance, along with the other damages that your vehicle may have suffered. However, you need to pay a deductible for both the coverages mentioned above to be activated, leading to the reimbursement of the repair and replacement costs.

While for significant cosmetic damages that may result in an inflated repair bill, you can file a claim, but if the damage is minor that won’t cost much in repair and will not set you back financially, an out-of-pocket payment may be the better option for two reasons:

• Your deductible may be higher.
• Frequent claim history for minor repairs may negatively impact your insurance rates in the long term.

How to Cover Cosmetic Damage Caused by an Accident?

If you have collision coverage in your car insurance, the cosmetic damage to your car caused by an accident may be covered.

Collision coverage covers damages to your car caused by an accident where you cannot prove that the other driver is responsible for the collision. If the damage is extensive, you may file a claim to be compensated for the financial loss, including the repair and replacement costs for the cosmetic damages to the car.

How to Cover Cosmetic Damage Caused by Non-Collision Factors?

If your car insurance includes comprehensive coverage, the cosmetic damages caused by non-collision factors listed as covered perils may be covered. They include:

• Theft
• Vandalism
• Natural elements
• Fire

Estimated Cost to Cover Cosmetic Damage

The estimated cost for cosmetic damage to your car depends on two main factors:

• Extent and severity of damage

  The greater the damage, the higher will be the cost.

• Make and model of your car

  The cost of repair and replacement may be higher for newer and high-end cars.

Exclusions in Cosmetic Damage Coverage

In most cases, if you have the required coverage, the cosmetic damage to your car may be covered. However, there are instances when your insurance provider may deny your claim. They include:

• Damage due to wear and tear and lack of maintenance
• Lapse in the stipulated period to file a claim

When Does Cosmetic Damage Repair Become a Necessity?

If the cosmetic damage may lead to further damage to the car or impair your driving ability, then getting the required repairs becomes necessary.

Also Read: Will Your Car Insurance Cover the Damages If You Hit a Pole?

Enjoy All-Inclusive Car Coverage with John E. Peakes Insurance!

For more information on auto insurance coverage, contact us today. At John E. Peakes Insurance Agency, we prioritize your safety on the road while selecting your car insurance.