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How Does Car Insurance Addresses the Threat of Pothole Damage?

Dec 06, 2023

Personal Insurance

Damage in car caused by pothole in road Damage in car caused by pothole in road

Pothole damage can set you back financially, so you must know whether your car insurance covers it. This blog discusses the several aspects of pothole damage and whether it can be included in your car insurance damage cover. Continue reading to learn more.

Types of Damage to My Car Caused by a Pothole

Potholes can be responsible for several types of damage to your car. Depending on the pothole size and the degree of impact, your car may suffer minor to severe damage to the steering, suspension, and alignment systems.

The common pothole damages include:

  • Punctured tire
  • Bent rims
  • Cracked wheel
  • Tire bubbles
  • Damaged wheel bearings
  • Bent suspension links
  • Fluid leakage
  • Unusual sound from the exhaust system
  • Misaligned wheels

Type of Car Insurance Essential for Pothole Damage Coverage

Your car insurance will include pothole damage only if you have collision coverage. However, the extent of pothole damage must determine whether you may file a claim.

If the repair cost is less than the deductible for minor damages, paying from your pocket may be the better option. The claim may lead to higher premium rates at the time of renewal of your insurance.

Coverage for Alignment Damage Caused by a Pothole

Once your car hits a pothole, if the steering wheel starts vibrating or the whole car starts jerking, the impact has damaged the car’s alignment system.

While making it difficult to drive the car, it may result in more severe suspension system issues and needs immediate repair. Your insurance provider will cover the repair costs if a collision is a part of your car insurance damage coverage.

Coverage for Rim Damage Caused by a Pothole

Rim damage is the most common pothole damage and is covered by collision coverage in your car insurance. It includes dents on the inside and outside of a wheel and damage to the wheel edge and drum. However, if your car has customized rims, you may need separate coverage.

Safety Tips for Your Car to Avoid Pothole Damage 

To protect your car from pothole damage, you may use the following tips:

  • Avoid bumpy or ill-maintained roads
  • Concentrate on the road while driving
  • Be alert while driving in unfamiliar places
  • Drive around potholes, if possible
  • Ensure that your tires are in optimum condition

Things to Do After Hitting a Pothole

After your car hits a pothole, you must pull over to check for damages to the following car parts:

  • Tires and wheels: They take the maximum brunt of the impact
  • Suspension system: Caused due to misalignment of the systems
  • Underside of the car: It includes the exhaust pipe, muffler, and oil pan

Drive Confidently with Car Insurance from Ellis Jean Insurance

At Ellis Jean Insurance, we offer innovative and customized car insurance solutions that guarantee added protection for your vehicles and financial security. Contact us today and allow us to serve you better. Call us at (512) 893-5727 to get started.

Pothole damage can set you back financially, so you must know whether your car insurance covers it. This blog discusses the several aspects of pothole damage and whether it can be included in your car insurance damage cover. Continue reading to learn more.