Dent caused by a non-collision incident 

Comprehensive coverage is designed to protect your vehicle from non-collision incidents, such as theft, vandalism, fire, hail, falling objects, and sometimes animal damage. If your car sustains dents due to any of these reasons, comprehensive coverage may come into play and help cover the repair costs.

Dent caused by collision with another vehicle or object

Collision coverage, as the name suggests, covers damages resulting from collisions with other vehicles or objects. If your car is involved in an accident that causes dents, collision coverage may help with the repair or replacement costs.

Some car insurance policies might offer limited coverage for specific types of dents. For instance, minor dents might not be covered, especially if they do not affect the vehicle's functionality.

What to do after your car has been dented? 

If your car gets dented, follow these steps to handle the situation efficiently:

  • Assess the damage: Examine the dents to determine the extent and severity of the damage.
  • Document the dents: Take clear photographs of the dented areas as evidence for your insurance claim.
  • Contact Your Insurer: Reach out to your insurance company to report the incident and inquire about the coverage for dents. They will guide you on the necessary steps and documentation.
  • Get professional help: Obtain a repair estimate from a qualified auto body shop or mechanic to assess the repair costs.
  • File a claim: If your policy includes coverage for the type of dent you've encountered, file a claim with your insurer, and provide the evidence and repair estimate.
  • Pay the deductible: If your claim is approved, you'll likely need to pay the deductible specified in your policy. The insurance company will cover the remaining repair costs, up to the policy limit.

How does a claim for dent affect car insurance rates?

When you file a claim for damage to your car due to an accident, theft, vandalism, or other covered incidents, your car insurance rates may be affected. 

The impact on your rates will depend on various factors, including the severity of the accident, who was at fault, and the insurance provider's policies. If you are found at fault for an accident, you may see an increase in your car insurance premiums since insurers consider you a higher risk to insure.

How to keep your car scratch and dent free

While some dents are unavoidable, you can take preventive measures to reduce the risk of damage to your vehicle:

  • Safe parking: Park your car in safe and well-lit areas to minimize the risk of vandalism and accidents.
  • Be mindful of surroundings: Be cautious when opening car doors and ensure there is sufficient space between your vehicle and others to avoid accidental dents.
  • Use protective covers: Consider using car covers or mats when parked to protect against hail damage.

In a nutshell

Car insurance coverage for dents depends on the type of insurance policy you have and the circumstances surrounding the dents. Generally, comprehensive car insurance will cover dents caused by non-collision incidents and collision coverage may cover dents resulting from accidents where you collide with another vehicle or object.

Make sure to review your policy terms and conditions to determine whether dents are covered and if any deductibles apply.