A soft top vehicle provides a lot of freedom for drivers. This can be an excellent way to enjoy the warmth of summer. Yet, when an accident occurs, that soft top can have significant damage. It can be quite costly. If you own a vehicle with this type of roofing system, be sure your car insurance covers it. There are some situations in which the auto insurance provider will not cover damage to this part of your vehicle. When do you have insurance?
After an Accident You Cause
Perhaps you are in a car accident. The roof of the car suffers significant damage after you strike another vehicle. The police officer rules you are responsible for the loss. In this case, your auto insurance coverage applies to the repairs to your vehicle in some cases. If you have collision insurance, it should pay for all damage related to your vehicle. All policies have limits, though. Your coverage will apply up to your limits. If you don’t carry collision coverage, however, you might have no help available.
After an Accident Someone Else Causes
Perhaps the car accident was not your fault. The other driver caused it. In this case, you would file a claim for your loss through the other driver’s car insurance liability policy. It would cover all damage to your vehicle, including the soft top, up to the value of the policy. If that is not enough, your own underinsured or uninsured motorist policy should offer more protection, as long as you have this coverage.
A Storm Strikes and Lightning Damages the Roof
A lightning strike can easily damage a soft top. Tree branches may fall, too. If the storm causes the damage to your vehicle, your policy may cover it. This occurs only if you have comprehensive auto insurance. Without this specific form, you may not have coverage for the repairs to your vehicle.
When It Does Not Apply
You are responsible for maintaining your soft top and the vehicle as a whole. When there is a problem with the function of the soft top, it is up to you to request repairs from your technician. Insurance does not cover this. If your negligence causes the loss, chances are good your coverage is not going to provide financial compensation. If your child cuts the top or you leave it up and strike something, your coverage may not apply.
Your policy may or may not pay if you leave the top down, and then rain damages the interior. Never leave the top down when you are not in the vehicle.
Contact your auto insurance provider at (208) 664-6000 for more information on your situation. There are times when car insurance can help with soft top repairs.
Also Read: What is Wear and Tear as it Applies to Auto Insurance