Can Scratches Be Covered by Insurance?
2 Answers
Car scratches can be claimed under insurance. Here are the specific details for filing a claim: 1. Important Notes: After an accident occurs, you should immediately call your insurance company. If the accident involves injuries, you must also notify the traffic police to determine liability on-site; otherwise, the insurance company will not cover the claim. When the insurance adjuster arrives at the scene, the vehicle owner should present the insurance policy, driver's license, vehicle registration, and ID card. 2. Photo Evidence: Whether photos are required for car insurance claims depends on the type of coverage purchased. For example, for claims involving vehicle damage, scratches, or glass damage, photographic proof is necessary to show that the vehicle had no pre-existing damage before the policy was taken out. Six photos are required: one from each of the four 45° angles (front left, rear left, front right, rear right), one of the vehicle identification number (VIN), and one with the owner and the car. Each photo must include that day's newspaper, clearly showing the date.
I've been driving for years and have experienced quite a few scratches and dents. Generally speaking, vehicle insurance can cover such incidents, but it depends on the specific situation. If the scratch is your own fault, like scraping a wall while reversing, filing a claim can reimburse the repair costs, but your premium might increase the following year—sometimes by a few hundred or even over a thousand bucks, which isn’t worth it. My rule of thumb: first estimate the repair cost. For minor scratches that can be fixed with a paint job under 300 RMB, I just pay out of pocket. But if the damage is severe and affects the car’s structure, like a big dent requiring panel beating costing over 2,000 RMB, then it’s worth considering an insurance claim. Also, if the other party is at fault, make sure they file through their insurance—don’t foolishly take full responsibility yourself. Remember to take photos as evidence and notify your insurer immediately; don’t delay and miss the claims window. Daily driving tips: watch out for blind spots and install a dashcam—it saves a lot of hassle. Insurance is always a last resort.
