Does the Car Insurance Policy Cover Suspension
When one thinks of buying a car insurance policy, usually the first thing that comes to mind is the scope of insurance coverage they would get when their car is involved in an accident.
Depending on the type of car insurance policy you buy and the add-ons you get, the scope of your insurance coverage is determined. Note that not all car insurance companies provide the same scope of coverage, hence you must read the policy documents carefully on purchasing an insurance.
In this article, we will discuss whether the car insurance policies provide cover for suspensions? Read on to know more..
What are car suspensions?
Motor vehicles have many components, each of which is important for their optimal operation. One of the most important of these components is the suspensions. Suspension systems in motor vehicles primarily serve two main functions: to provide a comfortable ride, and to help maintain control while driving.
When a car is in motion, its suspension system is constantly being pulled and pushed by the wheels and obstacles on the road. In order to provide a comfortable ride and protect the vehicle’s occupants from harsh road surfaces, car suspensions are designed to absorb shocks and vibrations.
Car suspensions also help to maintain control while driving. By allowing the wheels to move independently from the car’s body, it reduces the amount of forces that try to pull the wheel off the road. This allows for a greater degree of friction between the wheel and the road’s surface, giving the driver more control when trying to manoeuvre around corners. Suspensions also help improve vehicle stability by keeping the car’s centre of gravity low and within the wheelbase.
Most car suspensions are made up of two types of components. The first group is the springs. These are the parts which absorb the vibrations and shocks from the road. In most cars, they are made up of coiled metal or rubber strips. The second component is the dampers, or shock absorbers. The dampers are designed to reduce the oscillations caused by the springs after they have absorbed the shock.
Hence, suspensions are an essential component of your car.
What are the reasons for damage of suspensions in your car?
Car suspensions get damaged usually due to reckless driving. Some of the most common reasons for damage of suspensions are:
- Hitting the brakes too hard frequently.
- Speeding over the speed breakers and bumpers.
- Driving your vehicle with overweight capacity.
- Not getting your car servicing done regularly.
To avoid damaging your car suspensions, it is best advised to drive within speed limits, avoid overweight capacity and get your car servicing done regularly.
Does the car insurance policy cover suspensions?
Finally, the answer to this question is depending on the type of car insurance plans you have, the suspension may or may not be covered.
If you have a third party car insurance plan, then you would not be covered for any damage caused to the suspension of your car because this type of policy only covers damage caused to third parties, for example, the other party in the event of an accident.
On the other hand, if you buy a comprehensive car insurance policy, then it will cover 50% of the cost of repair. However, if you want your insurance company to cover the entire cost then you should buy a ‘Zero Depreciation Add-On’ cover along with the standard comprehensive insurance policy.
Note:
- An inspection by a mechanic may be required to determine the exact cause of the damage, before the insurer can decide whether to cover it.
- The damage caused to your car’s suspension system shall be covered only if it is damaged as a result of a car accident and not due to normal wear and tear due to regular use.
- Insurance companies may not accept the claims for minor punctures and repairs.
- You can purchase a “Tyre Protection Add-On” to cover the damages caused to suspensions even due normal wear and tear.
Conclusion:
Finally, whether or not the car insurance plan covers suspension-related damage depends on the type of policy, as well as the specific details of the policy. It is therefore important to read your insurance document carefully to make sure that the damages you are hoping to be covered for are indeed included in your coverage.
