It sounds like a strange scenario. Yet, it happens more often than you may think. A driver does not pay attention. He or she steps on the gas and, in a matter of seconds, the car advances full steam ahead until it crashes into your home. The damage may be significant. In all cases, the structural integrity of the home is at risk. What should you do? Will home insurance cover you?
When Someone Drives Into Your Home
Outside of getting everyone out of the home and car, calling the police, and obtaining medical care as necessary, you may not know what to do in this type of event.
In this case, someone else caused the damage to your home. They could be responsible for your losses. For example, if someone missed a turn at a high speed and crashed into your home, that vehicle’s owner handles the loss. In this case, the liability insurance for that driver is likely to pay for some or all your losses.
However, in an instance like this, limits can be a concern. Most states require drivers to maintain liability insurance. However, the coverage requirements are generally low. While most drivers tend to have higher policy limits, some do not. In some cases, the policy may not cover all the damage. In this case, you may need to file a lawsuit against the other party to recover the funds. Unfortunately, this may not be successful, however.
Wait – Your Home Insurance May Help
Many home insurance policies have a few nice features about them. Some have clauses that allow you to file a claim for the additional losses you have from an at-fault driver’s damage that his or her insurance policy did not pay. Some policies explicitly list vehicles as a covered type of hazard. As you may expect, this type of incident happens more often than you think.
You Caused the Damage
When your vehicle causes the damage, there may be some limitations. Most often, home insurance does not apply if you cause the damage to your home. That includes anyone in your home. However, if you have collision insurance on your vehicle, that may cover the losses you have to your car. Policies differ in this area.
For those who experience this situation, your Texas City home insurance agent is there to help you. Ask questions. Call your agent right away after such an event. He or she is there to guide you in filing a claim for funds owed to you.