If a tree falls on my car due to heavy rains, will that be covered under my insurance policy?

Nature can be unpredictable, and so can its impact on your parked car. Here’s whether your insurance will cover damage if a tree falls on it during heavy rains or a storm.

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My vehicle is parked in an open space. If a tree falls on it due to heavy rains or a storm, will that be covered under my insurance policy?

Expert Advice: In your situation, where the vehicle is parked in an open area and exposed to weather-related risks like storms, heavy rains and floods, having a comprehensive motor insurance policy works in your favour. Under a comprehensive motor insurance plan, damages caused to your vehicle due to natural calamities such as storms, cyclones, floods, and even a falling tree due to these calamities are typically covered under the ‘Own Damage’ section of the policy. So, if a tree were to fall on your car due to strong winds or heavy rainfall, the repair costs for the resulting damage would generally be reimbursed by your insurer, subject to policy terms and conditions. The insurance claim would usually cover the costs of repairing parts such as the windshield, roof, or bonnet, whichever components are damaged due to the impact.

However, it is important to be aware of the deductible component. This is the amount you must pay from your pocket before the insurer settles the remaining claim. There may also be a depreciation factor applied to the parts being replaced, unless you have opted for a zero-depreciation add-on cover, which is highly recommended, especially during the monsoon season.