Navigating unusual car damage: Riots, wear and tear and intentional acts

There are situations that can result in unusual car damage where policyholder is not at fault. Car owners are often prepared for typical forms of damage, such as accidents and natural disasters. However, navigating unusual car damage is crucial for car owners. Kotak general insurance helps to deal with such unique circumstances and understand insurance coverage options to take appropriate steps to handle the aftermath.

Riots and civil unrest

Acts of vandalism and looting can result in broken windows, dents, scratches and even complete destruction of car. Riots and civil unrest can lead to serious damage to car parked in affected areas this is where comprehensive car insurance coverage comes as a rescue. When faced with such damage, consider the following steps:

1. Ensure personal safety

Stay away from areas of disturbance and follow guidance from local authorities to protect yourself and your loved ones. Prioritise personal safety during riots and civil unrest.

1. Document the damage

Take photographs or videos from multiple angles, capturing all visible damage caused by the riot. This evidence will be crucial for insurance claims. Once it is safe to do so, document the damage to your car.

1. File a police report

File a police report regarding the incident. This report will serve as an official record of the damage caused by the riot and may be required during the claims process.

Wear and tear

Wear and tear refers to gradual deterioration due to regular use, exposure to the elements and the passage of time. It is a common occurrence in car as they age and accumulate mileage. While wear and tear are typically not covered by insurance, there are steps you can take to minimise its impact:

1. Regular maintenance

Regular servicing, including oil changes, tyre rotation and other preventive measures, can help reduce wear and tear. Adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for your car.

1. Protecting the exterior

Invest in protective measures such as waxing, paint sealants and car covers to protect your car’s exterior from environmental factors like UV rays, harsh weather conditions and dust.

1. Interior care

Regularly vacuuming, using protective seat covers and cleaning spills promptly can help prevent premature wear and tear. Keep the interior of your vehicle clean and well-maintained.

Intentional acts

Unfortunately, intentional acts of damage can occur. Dealing with intentional damage requires specific actions to address the situation effectively:

1. Document the damage

Capture all visible signs of damage caused by the intentional act. Once you discover intentional damage to your car, document it thoroughly with photographs or videos.

1. File a police report

Report the incident to the police and provide them with any evidence you have gathered. This will create an official record and potentially aid in identifying the responsible party.

1. Seek professional repairs

Share the details of the incident in network garage and keep records of all repair invoices and receipts. Work with authorised repair shops to assess and repair the damage caused by intentional acts.

The conclusion

While car damage caused by riots, wear and tear and intentional acts can be challenging to navigate, taking the right steps can help you handle these unusual circumstances effectively. Review your insurance policy for coverage details specific to these situations. You can address the aftermath of unusual car damage and restore your car to its pre-damaged condition with right car insurance policy.