does car insurance cover lightning strike

[SanQuinn]

Yes, standard car insurance will cover damage from a lightning strike, but only if you have comprehensive coverage. This add-on is designed for non-collision events. If you only carry the minimum state-required liability insurance, you will have to pay for repairs out-of-pocket.

Comprehensive coverage is what protects your vehicle from hazards that are largely out of your control. A lightning strike is a classic example of a "falling object" or an "act of nature," both of which are covered perils under a comprehensive policy. This coverage would pay for the cost to repair or replace your vehicle, minus your chosen deductible.

The type of damage can vary. A direct strike can fry your car's electronic control units (ECUs), infotainment system, and battery. It can also leave scorch marks or melt metal components. Even a nearby strike can induce a power surge through the electrical system, causing similar extensive damage.

Filing a claim is similar to any other incident. You should document the damage with photos and contact your insurance provider to start the process. An adjuster will assess the vehicle to determine the repair cost. If the cost exceeds your car's actual cash value, it will be considered a total loss.

Scenario	Covered by Comprehensive?	Notes
Direct lightning strike to the vehicle	Yes	Covers damage to electronics, bodywork, etc.
Power surge damage from a nearby strike	Yes	Surge damage is considered part of the same event.
Fire caused by the lightning strike	Yes	Fire damage is a separate covered peril under comprehensive.
A tree struck by lightning falls on your car	Yes	This falls under comprehensive for the falling object.
Only carrying state-minimum liability insurance	No	Liability only covers damage you cause to others.

It's a smart investment if you live in an area prone to severe thunderstorms. Review your policy declarations page to confirm you have this coverage.

[VonAddyson]

Totes. My cousin’s truck got zapped last summer in Florida. Fried the computer and everything. He was worried sick, but his insurance covered the whole thing, minus his deductible. He said the key was having "comprehensive" on his policy. Without it, he would’ve been looking at a huge bill. So, check your policy paperwork—if you see comprehensive listed, you’re almost certainly good.

[CarterMarie]

As someone who reviews this daily, I can confirm comprehensive coverage is what you need. It's for incidents outside of a collision: theft, vandalism, fire, and yes, acts of nature like a lightning strike. The claim process is straightforward. Document the external and internal damage—look for melted antenna bases, fried dashboard screens, or warning lights. The insurer will send an adjuster to verify the lightning caused the electrical damage. It's a clear-cut claim if you have the right coverage.