If you’re wondering what to do when you’ve hit a curb and what it could mean for your car insurance, this article is for you.
No driver can truly say they’re a driver if they haven’t hit a curb, as most of us have done it — and if you’re searching for this question, chances are, this might be your first time, and you’re currently looking for ways to fix it by having it covered by your car insurance.
So, does car insurance cover hitting a curb? Well, kind of.
We can’t really explain it in full depth here, so if you want to understand it better, you’ll need to read through our discussion below.
But before get into it, let’s first try to understand whether hitting a curb would count as an accident or not.
Table of Contents
Does Hitting a Curb Count as an Accident?
Well, yes, hitting a curb is typically considered an accident in the context of car insurance. This is because such an incident usually involves a collision with a stationary object, which falls under the definition of an accident for most insurance policies.
If I Hit a Curb Will My Insurance Cover It?
Yes, car insurance can cover hitting a curb, but this is primarily dependent on having collision coverage in your policy.
Collision coverage typically pays for repairs to your vehicle in situations involving collisions, which include hitting a curb. However, it’s important to note that this would generally be considered an at-fault accident. You would be responsible for paying your deductible, and frequent claims could potentially increase your insurance rates.
The specifics can vary based on your policy’s terms and the circumstances of the incident, so it’s advisable to consult with your insurance agent for detailed guidance.
Now that you understand the key aspects of hitting a curb and its insurance implications, let’s now go through whether or not you should consider filing for an insurance claim after hitting a curb.
Should You Consider Filing an Insurance Claim After Hitting a Curb?
Here’s how to decide based on specific factors:
Consider Filing If:
The Damage is Severe
If hitting the curb caused significant damage, involving major components of your car, it’s worth considering using your insurance. This is particularly relevant if the cost of repairs is substantially higher than your deductible.
Financial Constraints
If the cost of repairs is beyond your current financial means, filing a claim might be the more feasible option. This is especially true if the damage impacts the functionality of your vehicle.
Policy Coverage is Comprehensive
If your insurance policy offers extensive collision coverage that specifically includes such incidents, filing a claim can be advantageous.
Impact on Insurance Rates is Manageable
If you can absorb the potential increase in premiums or if your policy includes accident forgiveness, filing a claim might be worth considering.
Don’t Consider Filing If:
The Damage is Minor
For minor damages like a small scratch or a dented rim, it might be more economical to not file a claim, especially considering the potential increase in insurance rates.
Repair Cost is Less Than or Close to Deductible
If your repair cost is comparable to or less than your deductible amount, paying out of pocket might be more beneficial.
Potential for Increased Premiums
If you’re concerned about becoming labeled as a high-risk driver or facing significant premium hikes, avoiding a claim for minor incidents might be prudent.
Financial Stability
If you have the financial capacity to handle the repairs without significant strain, paying out of pocket could save you from potential long-term costs associated with an insurance claim.
Reporting Requirements
If your insurance policy does not require reporting minor incidents like hitting a curb, and if the damage is minimal, you might choose to not file a claim.
These factors are important in determining whether filing a claim is appropriate. Each situation is different, so carefully consider these aspects based on your circumstances, policy details, and the damage to your vehicle.
Related Questions About Hitting Curbs and Car Insurances
Before ending our discussion, we’ve listed and answered some topics that might help you better understand our topic of ‘hitting curbs and car insurance’:
What to do after hitting a curb and you want to file for insurance?
After hitting a curb, document the damage with photos, get a repair estimate, and contact your insurance company to start the claim process. Be prepared to provide details of the incident and any relevant documentation.
How to avoid hitting a curb next time?
To avoid hitting a curb, practice cautious driving, maintain a safe distance from the curb, especially when turning, and adjust your mirrors properly for better visibility.
You can also consider getting our Smooth Curb – Driveway Curb Ramp if you want to prevent hitting curbs in your driveway. Alternatively, you can read our guide on how to stop hitting curbs if you wish to prevent this issue from happening again.
Either choice will benefit you as a driver, so do consider checking them out.
Does car insurance go up if you hit a curb?
Yes, if you file a claim with your insurance after hitting a curb, it can lead to an increase in your insurance rates, especially if the incident is classified as an at-fault accident.
Can you get in trouble for hitting a curb?
You generally won’t get in trouble for simply hitting a curb, but if it results in property damage or is part of unsafe driving practices, there could be legal implications.
What to check after hitting a curb?
After hitting a curb, check for tire damage, wheel alignment, suspension issues, and any visible damage to the body of the car. If there’s any concern, consult a professional mechanic.
Final Thoughts
Car insurance and hitting curbs aren’t always the easiest of topics, especially for those new to driving.
Here at Smooth Curb, we completely understand that. It’s normal to experience these things, and what’s important is knowing what to do afterward.
Our brand imparts the proper knowledge about what curbs can do to you and your vehicle, as experiencing the consequences of hitting one isn’t easy.
Whatever topics you’re looking for, as long as they revolve around cars and curbs, we’re your go-to source.
So, in conclusion, understanding the nuances of car insurance in the context of hitting a curb is crucial for any driver. Whether you decide to file a claim depends on several factors, including the severity of the damage, your financial situation, and the specifics of your insurance policy. Always weigh the costs and benefits before proceeding, and remember, each incident is unique.
We hope that we’ve helped you with your question today, and we look forward to seeing you in our next post.
