Lightning Strikes and Car Accidents
When you’re driving along the road, you don’t expect to get hit by lightning. But it could happen at any time — even during the summer months.
Anything outside during a thunderstorm, such as trees, houses, people, and cars, can be struck by lightning. When a bolt descends from the clouds to the ground, and your vehicle is in the way, the charge either hits your antenna or the roofline.
Lightning can damage a vehicle because of its powerful electrical energy. If you do get hit by lightning while driving, it can be a scary experience. Will you be protected if you are in a vehicle?
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not your car’s rubber tires that protect you during a lightning strike. Rather, it’s the metal frame and roof that protects you. When lightning hits a hard-topped vehicle, the current travels along the metal exterior and safely reaches the ground, shielding those inside. However, the vehicle itself may suffer damage like melted antennas, electrical failure, or shattered windows.
Keep in mind that this protection only applies to fully enclosed, metal-bodied vehicles. Convertibles, golf carts, motorcycles, and vehicles with plastic or fiberglass shells offer no lightning protection.
Lightning typically strikes the antenna or roofline, then travels through the exterior metal shell before reaching the ground via the tires. This may damage the car’s electrical system, antennas, rear windshield, and tires. Sparks or small explosions from melted metal fragments can occur.
Does Car Insurance Cover Lightning Damage?
Visible indicators of lightning damage include:
- Scorch marks or melted antenna.
- Pitted metal, peeled paint, or shattered glass (particularly rear windshield due to defroster wires).
- Tires that blow out or excessive heat damage, possibly even fire.
If you believe your car has lightning damage but didn’t witness the strike, you’ll need to gather evidence. First, you’ll want to get a mechanic to look at the car right away to document any issues.
You may also consider collecting weather data or storm reports to prove that the problems were caused by a thunderstorm. This may make it easier to get your claim approved.
If your vehicle is struck by lightning, you may be covered, but only if you have comprehensive coverage on your auto policy. This optional coverage helps pay for repair or replacement costs caused by events beyond your control, such as lightning, theft, vandalism, and severe weather, minus your deductible. Without comprehensive coverage, you’ll be responsible for all expenses out of pocket.
Once you file a claim and it’s approved, your insurer may cover the repair costs, less your deductible. If the vehicle is declared a total loss, you’ll receive its actual cash value, also minus your deductible.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Texas gets the greatest number of lightning strikes of any U.S. state. These lightning strikes can cause a lot of damage to vehicles, homes, and more.
Lightning can lead to car accidents. Get the help you need from a Houston car accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC. We understand insurance and can ensure your damages get covered. Fill out the online form or call (281) 347-3247 to schedule a consultation with our office.
Source:
progressive.com/answers/does-car-insurance-cover-lightning-damage/
