What type of auto insurance covers slashed tires?

If you happen to find slashed tires on your car, what should you do? Does auto insurance cover the replacement of slashed tires?

Unfortunately, auto insurance doesn’t always cover your tires. You need to have the correct coverage for your tires to be replaced, and even then it might not be in your best interest to file a claim.

Before you purchase auto insurance that covers slashed tires, shop around. Compare coverages and rates from different companies to find your best deal.

Continue reading to learn more about slashed tires and car insurance coverages. Enter your ZIP code now to compare free auto insurance quotes with slashed tire coverage from companies in your area.

Does auto insurance cover slashed tires?

If you have slashed tires, what to do will depend on your auto insurance. Basic or liability-only coverage merely pays for damages to another person if you cause an accident. It doesn’t cover any damages to your vehicle.

For slashed tires, insurance coverage needs to include damages to your car. While collision compensates impairments to your vehicle from an accident, comprehensive pays for other damages.

What does comprehensive insurance cover on a car?

Comprehensive coverage includes damages from falling debris such as tree limbs, fire, theft, acts of nature — like hail, floods, tornados, and hurricanes — and vandalism (such as slashed tires).

Although full coverage comprehensive auto insurance is more expensive, it provides a greater degree of protection for your vehicle.

To give you an idea of rates, review the table below which displays average annual rates from top auto insurance companies based on coverage type.

How do you file a claim for slashed tires?

The first thing you want to do is take pictures of the slashed tires. Your slashed tires photos can be used to file a police report and an auto insurance claim. Filing a police report is recommended so that the person responsible can pay for damages.

Next, contact your auto insurance company. They will be able to reassure you that your coverage includes tire replacement. Every insurance company has its own claims process, so follow the instructions. Many companies will let you begin a claim online or through the company’s app.

Then, obtain an estimate for replacing your tires. Keep in mind that your auto insurance company will only offer you what your tires are worth, not what it costs to replace them. For example, if your tires are several years old and have a lot of mileage on them, your insurance company won’t cover new tires.

Also, consider your deductible. Carefully contemplate whether or not it will be more affordable for you to replace the tires yourself.

It should also be noted that your auto insurance rates can increase after filing a claim. If it’s less expensive for you to purchase new tires, you might want to forgo contacting your insurance company.

How do you know if someone slashed your tires?

Finding a flat tire is annoying, but wondering if someone slashed your tires can increase your anxiety. So, how do you know if someone intentionally slashed your tires or if it’s merely road damage?

First, closely inspect the tire. Are there obvious slash marks? Most vandals will put a hole in the sidewall since that area is the weakest. If a knife makes a cut, it is usually straight and smooth. On the other hand, road debris will leave a jagged tear in your tire.

Next, take a look around. Do you detect anything that could have been used to puncture your tires? Although most tires are destroyed using a knife, some vandals will choose to use a nail or another sharp object.

Check the area to determine if anyone has a camera. If you are at home, ask your neighbors if they have security or doorbell cameras that may have recorded the event. Many stores also have cameras in their parking lots which may have recorded the damage.

In the future, there are steps you can take to keep your car and tires safe. Nothing is foolproof, but increasing your safety measures can make a difference.

Consider these ways to avoid slashed tires and other vehicle damage:

• Park in a garage if possible
• Park in well-lit areas
• Install security cameras
• Install a car alarm if your vehicle doesn’t have one

While there is no way to guarantee that your car is safe, being proactive helps lower the risk of tire slashing. Also, be sure to have comprehensive coverage in place in the event that your car is vandalized.

Slashed Tires: The Bottom Line

Auto insurance will cover slashed tires if you have comprehensive coverage. However, it may be less expensive to replace your tires yourself if you have a high deductible. There’s also a chance that your auto insurance rates will increase if you file a claim.

Finding affordable auto insurance rates that cover slashed tires is easy if you shop around. Every insurance company offers various coverages and prices, so compare multiple companies to find great coverage with low costs.

To find the best deal on car insurance that covers slashed tires, enter your ZIP code now to compare free quotes from auto insurance companies near you.