During the winter months in Charlotte, North Carolina, it is possible that the locks on a car door will freeze. When that happens, it may be tempting to use a lighter to melt the ice so that it is possible to unlock the doors. Unfortunately, using a lighter on the vehicle may result in damage to the paint or even the metal. Although insurers have different policies regarding damage that they will pay for, auto insurance may not cover the costs of repairs.

Accidents and Accidental Damage

A comprehensive car insurance policy will usually cover the costs of repairing a personal vehicle in certain situations. When the damage results from an accident, such as another car hitting a parked vehicle during icy road conditions or a tree branch falling on the vehicle, then the insurer may cover the costs of repairing or replacing the vehicle.

Purposeful Damage

Although accidents that are beyond personal control may be covered under a policy, it is possible that the plan does not cover personal actions. When the damages are the result of a lighter that you used on your own vehicle, you may find that your insurer will not accept the claim.

Damages that are caused by vandalism, attempted theft or similar situations are usually covered under a basic comprehensive policy. The situation ultimately determines if your current plan will cover the damages to your vehicle.

When you use a lighter to remove ice from the locks on your car, you may not be covered for the damages that occur. The key to determining if you are covered is looking through your policy to clarify the situations that are covered. To learn more about your coverage options, contact us to talk to an independent agent.