Can I Claim Insurance If I Hit a Pole with My Car?
2 Answers
If you have only purchased compulsory traffic accident liability insurance and third-party liability insurance, the insurance company will not compensate for hitting a pole while driving. If you have purchased vehicle damage insurance, you can file a claim with the insurance company for hitting a pole. Compulsory traffic accident liability insurance and third-party liability insurance are both designed to compensate third parties in traffic accidents, so the insurance company will not pay for hitting a pole. Vehicle damage insurance, however, is a commercial insurance that covers the loss or damage to the vehicle itself, making it possible to claim compensation for hitting a pole. According to Article 5 of the "Motor Vehicle Damage Insurance Clause," during the insurance period of the contract, the company is responsible for compensating for the loss of the insured vehicle caused by an accident, as stipulated in the contract. Article 6 states that in the event of an insurance accident, the company is responsible for compensating the necessary and reasonable expenses incurred by the insured for rescue and protection measures taken for the insured vehicle, as stipulated in the contract. Article 7 specifies that the company is not responsible for compensating for the portion that should be covered by other responsible parties in the accident according to the compulsory traffic accident liability insurance contract.
My car hit a utility pole last time, and filing an insurance claim was no problem. First, about insurance types: If you have comprehensive coverage, your vehicle damage and the pole damage may both be covered; but third-party insurance usually only covers others' losses and won't pay for your own car repairs. After the accident, pull over immediately, turn on hazard lights, and ensure safety. Take photos to document the scene and pole damage, then contact your insurer to report the claim right away—don't attempt repairs yourself. They'll send an adjuster to assess damages, confirming repair costs and your deductible portion. Deductible amounts depend on your policy—mine was 500 yuan that time. Handling claims promptly minimizes premium impact; delays or concealing details may lead to denial. Advice: Drive carefully to avoid blind-spot poles.
