Your car insurance may cover fire damage to your car if you have the proper coverage and depending on what caused the fire.
Your car insurance will cover most fire damage if you carry comprehensive coverage. If the fire is caused by a collision with another vehicle or object, your collision coverage may cover fire damage to your car. Both coverages are optional insurance coverages.
Having both comprehensive and collision coverage is known as having “full coverage” on a vehicle. Full coverage is not typically required for auto insurance policies. If you owe money on your car, you may be required to carry full coverage as a term of a loan or a lease.
Full coverage insurance and fire damage
Full coverage on your car typically only helps pay for the car itself. Personal belongings inside your car aren’t typically covered by your car insurance policy unless stated otherwise. Plymouth Rock offers mobile device replacement, laptop replacement and personal property coverage as additional coverage for Assurance Plus customers. Otherwise, your homeowners or renters insurance policy may cover personal property.
What causes cars to catch on fire?
One of the most common causes of cars catching on fire are electrical and mechanical problems. Specific causes include:
Fuel leak
Overheating
Faulty electronics
Damaged or faulty electronics can also cause a fire. Exposed wiring can short circuit and create sparks, among other problems for your car. If you smell burning plastic or rubber, it may mean there are damaged wires. Any fuses that consistently blow may also be a sign of damaged wiring.
House fire
A house fire can quickly spread and damage vehicles parked in the garage or in the driveway. Your homeowners or renters insurance will not typically cover damage to your car, even if the fire started in your home.
Arson
Arson is the criminal and intentional act of setting fire to property. This is a serious crime, and your insurance will cover arson damage if you are a victim of it. It will not, however, cover you if you started the fire on purpose.
How can I avoid car fires?
The best way to prevent a car fire is to stay on top of regular maintenance. Have your oil changed at the manufacturer recommended interval. Make sure your car’s cooling system is in good shape by regularly inspecting your radiator and fan and keeping your coolant topped up.
If you smell anything unusual, like fresh gas or burning metal, plastic or rubber, have your car inspected by a trusted mechanic.
Finally, keep up to date on any factory safety recalls for your vehicle and have them addressed as soon as possible.
Filing an auto claim for fire damage
Before you file your claim, make sure you are safe. Do not approach a burning vehicle under any circumstance. Call 911 and follow their instructions.
When you wish to file a claim, don’t delay. Call your insurance company as soon as possible and report the damage.
At Plymouth Rock, we know that filing any kind of car insurance claim can be stressful. Our unique claims services will simplify the process, getting you back on the road in no time.
Filing an auto insurance claim at Plymouth Rock
- Take pictures — document the damage as soon as possible. Provide pictures along with any fire or police report to your adjuster. This will help them with the investigation of your claim.
- File your claim — please have your policy number ready. You can file a claim online or by contacting us or your agent directly.
- Assignment and tracking of the claim — after you report your claim, you’ll receive a claim number to help track its progress. We’ll also assign you an experienced and friendly representative to answer any questions you may have.
- Damage evaluation — if your vehicle has damage and the applicable coverage applies, we offer these convenient options to get you back on the road as soon as possible:
- CarPics® Photo Appraisals: Eliminate the need to schedule a claims inspection and receive your estimate within hours. You may even get paid that same day.*
- Crashbusters® Mobile Claim Service: Have a representative meet you to appraise the damage at a time and place that’s convenient for you, often issuing you a check on the spot.
- Door to Door Valet Claim Service®: Let us pick up your car and handle the repair process from start to finish. If you have rental coverage, we’ll even coordinate a rental car.
- Receive your claim settlement — based on your situation, Plymouth Rock may pay your claim to the repair shop or we may reimburse you directly. Your claim payment will be based on the terms and coverage in your car insurance policy.
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*Certain restrictions apply.
This page is for informational purposes only. Actual coverage may vary and is subject to the policy issued by your insurer. Restrictions and limitations may apply. Review your policy and consult a licensed insurance professional to learn more about your coverage.