A tire blowout is any instance in which the tire becomes flat suddenly. This often happens while driving. When it occurs, you may need to pull over. You will need to get the vehicle repaired properly. Most of the time, you also have to work with your auto insurance company to see if you have coverage for it. When will your coverage apply?
Most traditional tire blowouts will not fall under your auto coverage. There are some situations in which you may have some financial help, though.
What Caused the Tire Blowout?
To determine if your insurance will cover your losses, determine the underlying cause of the blowout. Here are some examples.
The Tire Is Old
It has patches and is wearing thin in some areas. This is due to poor maintenance and general upkeep. Your car insurance is not likely to cover this type of loss.
Your Tire Has a Slash In It
You learn it is from vandalism occurring at your home. In this case, comprehensive auto insurance may help cover your losses. Not all drivers carry this coverage, though.
You Are Driving and Collide With a Guardrail
The guardrail slashes the tire of the car. In this case, if you have collision insurance, it may help cover your losses. Again, not all drivers have this coverage.
Someone Stole Your Car
When the police find it, the tire has damage. In this case, it may be a result of the damage caused in the theft. If you have comprehensive auto insurance, this may help cover your loss.
You Are Driving and Run Over a Sharp Object In the Road
It causes damage to the tire. You have a blowout a few miles later. Most often, your auto insurance will not cover this. However, some policies may allow it to fall under comprehensive coverage.
What type of coverage do you have? This depends on the auto insurance policy you own. Keep in mind you also need to pay a deductible. If the cost to repair the blowout is less than the deductible, it may not be beneficial to file a claim.
If you have a tire blowout, call your auto insurance provider. Discuss what happened. Find out if your auto insurance policy can cover your loss. If not, you may want to improve the coverage you own. Most drivers will want comprehensive protection. It can help in these trying situations.
FAQ’s About Does Auto Insurance Cover Tire Blowouts
What is a tire blowout?
tire blowout is a sudden and unexpected loss of air pressure in a tire, which causes the tire to rapidly deflate and often results in the driver losing control of the vehicle.
Does auto insurance cover tire blowouts?
It depends on the type of coverage you have. Comprehensive insurance may cover tire blowouts caused by factors such as vandalism, theft, or weather-related events. However, standard liability insurance typically does not cover tire blowouts.
What should I do if I experience a tire blowout while driving?
If you experience a tire blowout while driving, try to remain calm and keep a firm grip on the steering wheel. Slowly and carefully move your vehicle to the side of the road and call for assistance.
Can I prevent tire blowouts?
Yes, regular tire maintenance such as checking tire pressure and tread wear can help prevent tire blowouts. Additionally, avoiding overloading your vehicle and driving on rough roads can also reduce your risk of experiencing a blowout.
What factors can cause a tire blowout?
Tire blowouts can be caused by a variety of factors, including underinflation, overloading, potholes, worn or damaged tires, and extreme temperatures.
How can I tell if my tires are at risk of a blowout?
Signs that your tires may be at risk of a blowout include low tire pressure, cracks or bulges in the sidewall, and worn or uneven tread.
Will my insurance rates go up if I file a claim for a tire blowout?
It depends on your insurance provider and the circumstances surrounding the claim. In some cases, filing a claim for a tire blowout may result in an increase in your insurance rates.
Do I need to purchase additional coverage to be protected against tire blowouts?
It depends on your individual needs and circumstances. If you live in an area with rough roads or extreme weather conditions, you may want to consider purchasing additional coverage to protect against tire blowouts.
What is the difference between comprehensive and collision insurance?
Comprehensive insurance covers non-collision-related incidents, such as theft, vandalism, and weather-related damage, including tire blowouts. Collision insurance, on the other hand, covers damage to your vehicle that results from a collision with another object, such as another car or a stationary object.
Is roadside assistance included in my auto insurance policy?
It depends on your insurance provider and policy. Some insurance companies offer roadside assistance as an optional add-on, while others may include it as part of their standard coverage. It’s important to review your policy to understand what is included and what additional coverage options are available.
Can a tire blowout damage your vehicle?
Yes, a tire blowout can cause damage to your car. When a tire suddenly deflates, it can affect your car’s stability and control, potentially leading to accidents or further damage to the vehicle’s suspension, rims, or undercarriage.
Is pothole-related tire damage covered by auto insurance
Car insurance policies may cover tire damage caused by potholes if you have comprehensive and collision coverage. However, insurance coverage can vary based on your policy and provider. It’s essential to read the terms and conditions of your insurance policy or consult with your insurance agent for specific information about pothole-related tire damage coverage.