Does Auto Insurance Cover Paint Damage From Wildfire Ash?

Many people think Florida climate issues involve only hurricanes, flooding, and deep freezes that make iguanas fall out of trees, but wildfires are also a major issue in the state. The ash from these fires can travel very far in strong winds, and ash is not kind to car paint. But if you’re not in the fire zone, would insurance cover any of the damage? Depending on the circumstances, it can. In Orlando, FL, Insurance Warehouses of America can figure this out.

Can You Prove It?

Wind can carry smoke and wildfire ash for many miles, and that ash can settle on cars and destroy the paint. Some of the destruction occurs when people sweep the ash off and scratch the paint, but the ash is also caustic when exposed to moisture. The resulting mix eats into paint. Either way, that nice paint job ends up not being so nice anymore. Repairs are in order, but they can be pricey.

If you can prove that the damage was from wildfire ash, you may be able to get your car insurance to cover repairs using your comprehensive coverage. How simple this may be depends on whether the insurance company believes that your car was covered in ash. If you live relatively close to the area affected by the fire and can show that ash fell onto your car in the spots that are now damaged, you might be able to convince the company that your claim is valid. But if you don’t have pictures, reports of ash falling in your neighborhood, and so on, then you may have more trouble getting your claim paid.

Speak With an Agent for Personalized Advice

Speak with one of our agents at Insurance Warehouses of America for personalized advice. They’ll help you understand what your current auto policy will and won’t cover. We’re currently serving Orlando, FL.

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