Can Scratches Be Covered by Insurance?
3 Answers
Paint scratches can be covered by insurance. However, if the damage is minor, it is not recommended to file a claim. This is because filing a claim for small scratches on a new car can lead to an increase in the following year's insurance premium. Contents of Vehicle Insurance: Motor vehicle insurance, also known as car insurance, is a type of commercial insurance that covers liability for personal injury or property damage caused by natural disasters or accidents involving motor vehicles. Scope of Vehicle Insurance: Motor vehicle insurance, commonly referred to as "auto insurance," is a form of transport insurance that covers the vehicle itself and its third-party liability. The primary clients of this insurance are legal entities and individuals who own various types of motor vehicles. The coverage mainly includes different types of cars but also extends to specialized vehicles such as electric cars, battery-powered vehicles, and motorcycles. Auto Insurance Claims Process: First, call to report the incident; protect the scene and preserve evidence; then contact the insurance company and a repair service to assess the extent of the vehicle's damage; the insurance company will confirm the claim settlement.
My car was slightly scratched last year, and I was torn about whether to file an insurance claim. Generally speaking, whether a scratch accident can be covered by insurance depends on the specific circumstances: First, check your policy type. Commercial auto insurance, such as collision coverage, can cover your own losses, while compulsory traffic insurance only compensates for the other party's personal injuries and not property damage. If the damage is minor, say under one or two thousand yuan, filing a claim might result in a premium increase next year that exceeds the repair cost, making it not worthwhile. I recommend first getting an estimate of the repair cost from a repair shop before deciding whether to file a claim. You should also consider liability: if the other party is fully at fault, it’s easier to let their insurance handle it. If you’re at fault, be cautious—remember to take photos for evidence before reporting the incident. It’s also a good habit to install a dashcam while driving, as it provides evidence in case of incidents, helping avoid disputes that could affect insurance claims. In short, don’t rush to file a claim for every scratch—weigh the costs carefully to avoid future disadvantages.
From a vehicle safety perspective, reporting a minor scratch to insurance is feasible but requires careful consideration. First, verify if the insurance is valid—commercial coverage will allow claims. Minor scratches like door-edge marks may cost only a few hundred yuan to repair. Filing a claim increases your claim history, potentially reducing no-claim discounts at renewal and raising premiums by 10-20%; self-repair is often more economical. The standard process involves immediate reporting, an assessor's inspection, and reimbursement after repairs. I recommend estimating repair costs: claims are worthwhile if exceeding 3,000 yuan; otherwise, paying out-of-pocket is wiser. Also, aim for quick settlements in minor accidents to save time and effort.
