What are the biggest risks you face on the road? As a driver, you must constantly be aware of the hazards out on the road. Unfortunately, accidents can still happen at a moment’s notice and are sometimes out of your control. Continue reading to learn a few of the most common car insurance claims in the Show Me State.
1. Natural Disasters
Natural disasters may not occur as frequently as everyday car accidents, but when they strike, they can cause widespread damage to vehicles all over the disaster area. Unfortunately, the geographical location of Missouri makes us susceptible to many different types of natural disasters. We’re far enough north to be subject to ice and snow storms, and its mid-west location has put it in the path of countless severe storms that have produced flooding and large tornadoes. In the 10 year stretch between 2006 and 2015 alone, there were 25 major disaster declarations in the State of Missouri.
2. Theft
Believe it or not, Missouri ranks among the top 10 states for car theft according to the Insurance Information Institute. In 2014, there were 16,357 vehicles stolen. Unfortunately, vehicle theft is not a covered peril on a collision and liability insurance policy. If you want to insure yourself against theft and vandalism, you will need to talk with your insurer about including comprehensive coverage on your policy.
In addition to vehicles being stolen, many people also find that property inside their car is stolen as well. If you leave your purse, golf clubs, or any other person property in your car, and it is stolen, your homeowners or renters insurance policy will likely cover the loss. On the other hand, if you have aftermarket electronics that are permanently installed in your car, like a stereo system, it will likely be covered by the comprehensive coverage of your car insurance policy. In either case, be sure to talk to your agent to know exactly what coverage you have and what deductibles may apply.
3. Windshield Cracks and Chips
When the semi-truck in front of you kicks rocks up toward your windshield, you might find yourself with a large chip or crack across your line of sight. If you carry comprehensive coverage on your policy, you might only have to pay a small deductible for the repair. If you carry full-glass coverage, you won’t have to pay anything at all. Either way, your windshield will be good as new afterward.
4. Single-Vehicle Collisions
Single-Vehicle Collisions are very common accidents involving only one motor vehicle. They often occur when a driver backs into a light post, blows a tire, or accidently veers off the road. Though you will be considered at-fault for any single vehicle accident you are involved in, that is not related to a mechanical failure; collision insurance can help cover your expenses minus your deductible.
5. Accidents Involving Wild Animals
If you’ve ever seen a deer staring into your headlights at night, you know how quickly a wild animal can take you by surprise on the road. With the beautiful landscapes and forests we enjoy here in Missouri, comes a high wildlife population Everything from deer to feral hogs and black bears can be a risk to drivers. And as you likely know, these animals can do serious damage to a vehicle and injure the people inside of it when hit. Though the accident is technically a collision, it is covered under the comprehensive section of a car insurance policy.
6. Accidents Involving Multiple Vehicles
From rear-end fender benders to serious accidents at an intersection, collisions involving multiple vehicles can result in thousands of dollars worth of repairs to a vehicle, as well as thousands of dollars in medical expenses. If you find yourself responsible for the collision, you could find yourself responsible for the repair and medical expenses of all parties involved as well. In an ideal scenario, you would have adequate liability and collision insurance limits to cover the cost.
To find out if your car insurance will cover you for the hazards listed above, schedule your personal insurance consultation and request your very own Springfield car insurance quote from the team here at Tagge Insurance. We look forward to serving you soon.
