Three Times You Might Need to File an Auto Insurance Claim

While collisions with other vehicles are perhaps the most common car insurance claims, they’re not the only ones. Here are three other situations where you might need to file an auto insurance claim.

1. Accidents Involving Pedestrians

Striking a pedestrian on Main Street is undoubtedly a reason for an insurance claim. There’s a high likelihood that the pedestrian might suffer injuries, which would typically be covered under your auto insurance’s injury liability protections. These claims can become quite costly if the injuries are severe.

Accidents involving pedestrians occur more frequently than drivers might think. A momentary distraction by the shops in Sandpoint, ID, and you could hit someone crossing the street.

2. Damage from Falling Trees

While many homeowners are aware of potential tree hazards that could damage their house, drivers often overlook the risk of trees falling on their cars. High winds and damaged trees can cause a branch or an entire tree to fall onto your vehicle, causing significant damage to the windshield, other windows, roof, and hood.

Damage from falling trees is a non-collision claim that falls under comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive auto insurance coverage generally protects against non-accident damage.

3. Mechanical Failures

A failed alternator will leave you stranded on the roadside. The alternator recharges your vehicle’s battery as you drive, and if it fails, you’ll lose power. (Note: Electric vehicles don’t have alternators).

Roadside assistance coverage is designed for situations where you’re stranded due to mechanical failure. While it’s not a standard protection, many auto policies offer it as an add-on. We at Selkirk Insurance Services can help you add this to your policy.

Review Your Auto Insurance

Of course, these claims are only valid when you have the appropriate auto insurance coverages in place. If you’re in Sandpoint, ID, we at Selkirk Insurance Services can help you review your coverages.