Does auto insurance cover slashed tires?

Discovering that your vehicle’s tires have been slashed can be a very stressful experience. Besides wondering who would have done such a thing, you now have a car you likely can’t drive until you can purchase and install new tires.

After you get over the initial shock of finding your damaged car, you may wonder if your insurance covers flat tires. It can depend on how the tires were damaged. Read on to learn how insurance works for slashed tires.

Does auto insurance cover slashed tires?

Fortunately, in most cases, your car insurance will cover slashed tires. You’ll typically need comprehensive coverage (more on that below), and your insurance company will conduct an investigation to help determine how your tires were damaged. To assist with this process, you can take photos of your slashed tires and note the date and time when you discovered your car in its current condition.

Once you have the necessary documentation, reach out to your insurance company. They will ask you how and when the tires were damaged. If you aren’t sure, let them know. If your vehicle was in an area where a riot was taking place, it is possible the tires were damaged then. Provide as much detail as you can to help your insurance company assist with the claims process.

What kind of car insurance covers slashed tires?

If it’s determined that your tires were slashed during a riot or another type of vandalism, you’ll need comprehensive coverage for this type of damage. This kind of damage is something that fully comprehensive auto insurance covers. Comprehensive also covers damage from road debris, like driving over a nail. If your tires were damaged during a collision with another vehicle or object, you’ll need collision coverage. 

You may be wondering how many slashed tires your insurance will cover. Ultimately, your insurance will cover all four tires if they’re damaged in a covered event. As long as you have the right coverage, you’ll only have to pay your deductible to get your tires replaced.

How do I file a car insurance claim for slashed tires?

When it comes to knowing how to file a car insurance claim for slashed tires, it’s important to call your insurance company right away. This will not only help to get the ball rolling with your insurance company, but it will also help make sure you are not denied for waiting too long to file. Be sure to call the local police department on the non-emergency number and ask for an officer to come out and create a report. This way, you will have the documentation you need for filing a report with your insurance company.

How much does it cost to replace slashed tires?

The cost of replacing tires varies. If you had only one tire slashed, you might be able to get by with replacing just the one. You may also be able to put the spare on and drive over to the tire shop. If all four tires are ruined, then you’re looking at a much bigger bill, including towing costs. How many tires insurance covers will depend on the circumstances. The make and model of your car combined with the size of your tires and what brand you choose will all factor into replacement costs. According to Consumer Reports, minivan and sedan tires cost $137 each, and SUV tires run $162 on average.

It is also worth noting that your deductible will factor into your out-of-pocket cost. When you set up your car insurance policy, you selected a deductible that you would pay, usually between $500 and $1,000. If you have one $100 tire to replace, you won’t reach your deductible and you will have to cover this cost on your own. On the other hand, if you had four large truck tires vandalized, it would probably make sense to file a claim.

Does auto insurance cover slashed tires? The Bottom Line

Getting your tires slashed will definitely put a dent in your day. But as long as you have the right kind of coverage, your auto insurance should take care of the damage. Once you confirm that you have car insurance for slashed tires and verify your deductible, you can determine if it’s a wise move to file the claim or pay for the new tires on your own.