An act of God is a term used on many auto insurance policies. It defines instances causing an accident or damage beyond what man can create. That is, it applies to instances in which a person did not cause the damage your vehicle suffers. Not all types of car insurance cover this type of incident. What is an Act of God, then?
Understanding Acts of God In Auto Insurance
Many auto insurance companies use terminology like this on their policy. Most replaced it with other wording in this day and age. However, the type of coverage is the same.
In general, Acts of God are incidents or accidents brought on by instances in nature. Some of the most common include the following:
- Storms, such as thunderstorms and resulting lightning
- Tsunamis
- Some types of wildfires
- Earthquakes
- Tornadoes
- Hail
- Flooding
In all of these instances, a person is not to blame. There is no way to avoid these instances. There is no way to prevent vehicle damage in all cases, either. Most auto insurance policies recognize this.
And, yet, the damage from these types of instances can range widely. Not even all insurance policies cover certain Acts of God, though. It is important to know what your policy states specifically.
What Type of Insurance Covers Acts of God?
Most often, an Act of God claim relates to natural events, as noted. The only type of car insurance to cover this is comprehensive auto insurance. It protects you against accidental and unavoidable claims. This type of insurance is optional for many drivers. Those with a lease or loan may need to maintain the coverage. Still, it’s often invaluable for others as well.
However, some policies limit coverage for these occurrences. This depends on the carrier and the policy you select. For example, your auto insurance may not cover earthquake damage. This is an exclusion. Most car insurance policies with exclusions list this information on the policy itself. You should learn what types of exclusions apply to your needs.
If you suffer a fire from a lightning strike, contact your auto insurance provider. If you have hail damage to your car, you may qualify for coverage as well. Acts of God coverage can range from policy to policy. Contact your insurer to know what specific instances have coverage. And, consider adding more coverage if you live in a high-risk area for certain events. This is especially true for excluded components on your policy. You might get protection through extra comprehensive limits.
FAQ’s About What Is an Act of God in Auto Insurance Coverage
How can I determine if my auto insurance policy covers Acts of God?
You can review your policy documents or contact your insurance provider to understand your coverage.
Do I need to purchase special coverage to protect against Acts of God?
Comprehensive insurance coverage typically includes protection against Acts of God, but it’s important to review your policy to understand your coverage.
What should I do if my vehicle is damaged by an Act of God?
Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to file a claim and begin the repair process.
Will my insurance rates increase if I file a claim for damage caused by an Act of God?
It depends on your specific policy and the circumstances surrounding the claim. Your insurance provider can provide more information on how filing a claim may impact your rates.
Can I still drive my vehicle if it has been damaged by an Act of God?
It depends on the extent of the damage. If your vehicle is safe to drive, you can continue to use it until repairs are made. However, if the damage is significant, it may be unsafe to drive.
How long does it take to repair damage caused by an Act of God?
The length of time it takes to repair damage caused by an Act of God can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the availability of repair services.
Is there anything I can do to prevent damage to my vehicle from an Act of God?
While you can’t always prevent damage caused by natural disasters, you can take steps to minimize the risk of damage, such as parking your vehicle in a covered area or away from trees and power lines during a storm. It’s also a good idea to review your insurance coverage regularly to ensure you have adequate protection in the event of an Act of God.
Is hitting a deer considered an Act of God in auto insurance?
No, hitting a deer is not considered an act of God in auto insurance. It is classified as a collision and would fall under your collision coverage. However, if the deer were to jump out in front of your car due to a lightning strike or other natural disaster, it may be considered an act of God.
Do we have to pay a deductible for an Act of God in auto insurance?
It depends on your policy and the specific event. Some policies may waive the deductible for certain acts of God, while others may require you to pay the full deductible. It is important to review your policy carefully and speak with your insurance provider to fully understand your coverage and any associated deductibles.
Can an Act of God be considered an accident in auto insurance
No, an act of God is not considered an accident in auto insurance. An accident typically refers to a collision or other event caused by human error or negligence. An act of God, on the other hand, is an event that is outside of human control, such as a natural disaster. However, some policies may include coverage for both accidents and acts of God, so it is important to review your policy carefully.