Does Car Insurance Cover Vandalism? 

Car vandalism is becoming more prevalent and is a common concern for drivers. One of the most frequently asked questions we get from drivers is: does car insurance cover vandalism? 

The short answer is yes. Most drivers have comprehensive coverage that protects them from vandalism and theft. To help drivers ensure they’re protected, here’s a look at what car vandalism is and the auto insurance coverage needed to protect drivers after vandalism. 

To learn more or get a free car insurance quote, contact GoAuto Insurance. 

What Is Car Vandalism? 

Car vandalism is any intentional damage to a vehicle. Vandalism is a criminal act that can result in significant damage to cars. Vandalism can happen on the road, in a parking lot, or in a driveway. 

Some of the most common types of auto vandalism are: 

• Slashed tires
• Spray paint 
• Broken windows
• Broken headlights or taillights
• Dents 
• Scratches or keying 
• Foreign substances in the gas tank

What Auto Insurance Policies Cover Vandalism? 

Comprehensive insurance policies cover damage from vandalism. Comprehensive coverage protects drivers from events outside of their control. For example, it covers damage caused by: 

• Natural disasters
• Tree limbs
• Deer
• Hail 
• Vandalism 
• Theft 

State law does not require comprehensive coverage, but lenders usually do. Comprehensive coverage and collision coverage are generally included in full coverage policies. That said, because it’s not required by state law, drivers should check their car insurance policies to ensure they’re protected. 

What to Do If Your Car Is Vandalized? 

It’s scary, stressful, and upsetting to have your car vandalized. Knowing what to do after your car has been vandalized can help make the process go smoothly. Here’s a checklist to follow after vandalism or attempted theft of your vehicle. 

• Evaluate the damage. Check the entire vehicle to assess the damage. Document the complete damage, including any items missing from the vehicle. 
• File a police report. Filing a police report will help with the insurance claim. It will also ensure the crime is reported and can help hold people accountable for vandalism. 
• Document the damage. Take pictures and videos that document the damage to your vehicle. If anyone witnessed the vandalism, get their name and contact information. 
• Contact your car insurance company. Provide your insurance company with all the information you have about the vandalism. Your insurance company will likely have you meet with an adjuster who can help you decide whether to file an car insurance claim 

Do You Have to Report Vandalism to Your Insurance Company? 

While most state laws require drivers to report car accidents to law enforcement and their insurance company, there are no such laws about vandalism. In most instances, it’s up to drivers to decide whether to report vandalism. 

Here are some factors that can impact whether drivers report vandalism to their insurance company: 

• Requirements of lenders. Many lenders contractually require drivers to report vandalism. Drivers should be familiar with their contractual obligations so they comply with all requirements. 
• The extent of the damage. Drivers have to pay a deductible for comprehensive insurance claims. The deductible can range from $200 to $2,500. If the amount of damage is less than your deductible, it probably doesn’t make sense to file a claim with your insurance company. Meeting with an adjuster can help you determine whether or not to file a claim. 
• Your driving record. Because comprehensive coverage protects drivers from damage outside of a driver’s control, these claims usually don’t have a notable impact on insurance costs. However, if a driver has filed several small claims, it could increase insurance costs. The impact the claim will have on insurance costs depends on the driver’s specific circumstances, but it’s something to consider and ask your insurance company about. 

How Can Drivers Reduce the Risk of Vandalism? 

While some instances of vandalism can’t be avoided, there are things drivers can do to minimize the risks of vandalism. Here are some tips for preventing auto vandalism: 

• Always park in well-lit areas
• Whenever possible, park in a secured garage
• Don’t leave valuables in your car
• If you have access to gated or garage parking, use it 

Get Auto Insurance That Covers Vandalism

If you’re not sure whether your policy covers vandalism, it’s a good idea to double-check. Full coverage insurance – with collision coverage and comprehensive coverage – is a smart choice for most drivers. Comprehensive coverage gives drivers peace of mind that they’re protected from events out of their control, including vandalism and theft. 

The team at GoAuto works with drivers to create a personalized policy. Call us today to make sure you have the coverage you need. You can also contact us online or request a free auto insurance quote.