Yes, standard car insurance typically covers vandalism, but only if you have comprehensive coverage. This is an optional type of insurance, so it's not included in a basic liability-only policy. If your car is keyed, windows are smashed, or it's spray-painted, comprehensive coverage would pay for the repairs, minus your deductible.
The process usually involves documenting the damage with photos, filing a police report, and then contacting your insurance company to start a claim. An adjuster will assess the cost of repairs. It's important to note that filing a claim will likely affect your future premiums. For minor vandalism where the repair cost is only slightly above your deductible, it might be more cost-effective to pay out-of-pocket to avoid a potential rate increase.
Here is a comparison of how different coverage types apply to common incidents:
| Incident Type | Liability Coverage | Collision Coverage | Comprehensive Coverage |
|---|
| Vandalism (e.g., keying, broken windows) | No | No | Yes |
| Theft of Vehicle | No | No | Yes |
| Hitting a Deer | No | No | Yes |
| Damage from Falling Tree | No | No | Yes |
| At-Fault Accident (you hit another car) | Yes (for other car) | Yes (for your car) | No |
| Single-Car Accident (you hit a pole) | No | Yes | No |
If you're concerned about vandalism, especially if you park on the street or in an area with higher risk, adding comprehensive coverage is a smart financial decision. Always review your policy's declarations page or call your agent to confirm your current coverage levels.
