Shit, that was just missing. In the morning on the car, you notice that someone has scratched the paint with the key. This could get expensive. What now?
Small – intentional or unintentional – damage to the car occurs again and again. These scratches and dents are not only annoying, but also difficult to repair. However, the cause cannot be traced. And so the car owner is left with the costs. What is to be considered?
Who pays for damage caused by vandalism?
Of course, the causer is primarily liable. Often it can no longer be determined. Then injured parties can contact their car insurance. For this, those affected must have taken out partial or fully comprehensive insurance beforehand, explains the Association of the German Insurance Industry (GDV). Those who only have compulsory motor vehicle liability insurance have to pay for such damage out of their own pocket if the cause cannot be identified.
Which insurance covers which damage?
The partial comprehensive insurance comes into effect if, for example, firecrackers have damaged the vehicle, set it on fire or even damaged it by an explosion. Broken windows are also usually a case for partial coverage. Often, however, not only the windows but also the broken covers of headlights and taillights are replaced.
In addition, fully comprehensive insurance pays for willfully caused damage such as scratched paintwork, punctured tires or damage caused by stone throwing. Important: While partially comprehensive damage does not affect the no-claims discount, damage with fully comprehensive insurance does. And car owners must always factor in the contractually agreed deductible in the event of regulation.
The vandals were there – what should be done?
After those affected have noticed the damage, they should photograph it, ideally from different perspectives. The GDV advises that it is best to call the insurer straight away and coordinate the further procedure with him. Vandalism damage should also be reported to the police. According to the insurance contract, this also applies to fire damage above a certain amount.
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