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Can Car Insurance Cover Repairs?
When your car breaks down or gets damaged, one of the first questions you might ask is, “Does my insurance cover this?” At GenAc, we know how important it is to understand exactly what your car insurance does and doesn’t cover when it comes to repairs. This blog post breaks it all down for you, from types of insurance to when (and when not) to file a claim. Here’s all you need to know about car insurance.
Types of Car Insurance and How They Differ
Before we dive into repairs, it’s helpful to understand the basic types of car insurance:
- Third-Party Only (TPO): The most basic coverage, required by law. It covers damage to other people’s vehicles or property, but not your own.
- Third-Party, Fire and Theft (TPFT): Includes everything in TPO, plus protection if your car is stolen or damaged by fire.
- Comprehensive: The highest level of coverage. It includes all of the above, plus damage to your own car, even if you’re at fault.
The type of insurance you have makes a big difference in whether your repairs will be covered.
In Barbados, any vehicle operating on public roads is required by law to have insurance. Failure to comply with this requirement could result in a fine of $1,000 and up to six months imprisonment, or both. Additionally, driving without being insured against third party risks may disqualify you from holding or obtaining a license for a period of 12 months from the conviction date.
When Does Car Insurance Cover Repairs?
Your car insurance will typically cover repairs if:
- You’re involved in a collision and you’re not at fault (or even if you are, with comprehensive coverage).
- Your vehicle is vandalised.
- Your car is damaged by natural disasters, such as floods or hurricanes (again, with comprehensive coverage).
- You experience theft or attempted theft, causing damage.
These scenarios fall under the umbrella of accidental damage or external events, and they’re usually handled by filing a claim with your insurer.
Types of Coverage That May Cover Repairs
Here’s a closer look at the coverage options that could help with repair costs:
- Collision Coverage: Pays for repairs after an accident with another vehicle or object.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Helps with non-collision-related damage—like fire, weather, theft, or vandalism.
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Can pay for your repairs if you’re hit by a driver without insurance.
- Personal Accident and Medical Coverage: While not related to vehicle repair, it helps cover medical expenses after a crash.
What Car Insurance Does Not Cover
Even with the best policy, some things aren’t included:
- Wear and tear: Routine maintenance like oil changes, brake pad replacement, or tyre wear.
- Mechanical breakdowns: Issues with the engine, transmission, or electrical systems unless they’re a result of an accident.
- Negligence: If damage occurs because you ignored warning signs or didn’t maintain the vehicle properly.
Does Car Insurance Cover Repairs After a Mechanical Breakdown?
Generally, no. Standard car insurance policies do not cover mechanical breakdowns or system failures. These issues fall under maintenance or warranty coverage, not insurance. However, some insurers offer mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI) as an optional add-on, so it’s worth checking with your provider.
When to File a Claim for Car Repairs
Filing a claim can help with costs, but it’s not always the best choice. You should consider filing a claim when:
- The repair costs are significant, and they outweigh your excess.
- The damage was caused by a covered event (collision/crash, theft, etc.).
- You weren’t at fault, and the other driver’s insurance isn’t cooperating.
Avoid filing a claim for minor issues that cost less than or only slightly more than your excess doing so may affect your premiums.
Understanding What Car Insurance Covers for Repairs
At the end of the day, car insurance is designed to protect you from unexpected events, not everyday maintenance. Knowing what type of policy you have and what it includes can help you avoid surprises when it’s time for repairs. If you’re ever unsure, the team at GenAc Barbados is here to walk you through your coverage and help you choose the policy that fits your needs best.
Still have questions about your car insurance? Contact a GenAc Barbados representative today. We’re here to help.
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