Does Auto Insurance Cover Damage From Ice or Falling Branches?

Harsh winter weather can take a toll on your vehicle. In Alabama, drivers may be unsure whether their auto insurance covers damage from sudden storms, strong winds, ice or falling branches. Not all policies respond the same way to storm damage.

How Can Auto Coverage Help?

In many cases, damage from ice or falling tree limbs may be included under the comprehensive coverage aspect of an auto insurance policy. This coverage can help pay for repairs to your vehicle caused by events other than collisions, such as severe weather, theft or vandalism.

What Is Covered by This Policy?

Here are some things that auto insurance that includes comprehensive coverage may cover:

• Damage from falling branches or trees during storms
• Broken windshields or dents caused by hail or ice
• Other noncollision weather-related incidents

However, if you only carry liability or collision coverage, damage from ice or falling branches may not be included. Liability insurance generally covers injuries and property damage you cause to others, not weather damage to your own vehicle.

Collision insurance may cover repairs after an accident involving another vehicle or object, but not for damage caused solely by weather conditions, such as if a branch falls on your car while it’s parked. Comprehensive coverage typically applies to these weather-related losses.

Tips for Handling Weather-related Damage

If your vehicle is damaged by ice or falling branches, you may want to:

• Document the scene with photos and notes.
• Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage, if it is safe to do so.
• Review your auto policy to see what coverages may apply.
• Contact your insurer or agent to ask how your policy may respond to the loss.

How Our Team Can Help

At Bama Insurance Services, we help Birmingham, AL drivers review their car insurance. We explain what may be covered and discuss options that can address weather-related damage. Contact us to learn more.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.