Does Car Insurance Cover Wildfire Damage?

Does Car Insurance Cover Damage from Wildfires

Does Car Insurance Cover Damage from Wildfires?

California sunsets may be beautiful, but unfortunately, so are wildfires – and not in a good way. If you’ve ever wondered, “Does my Car insurance cover damage from wildfires?” – you’re in the right place.

Let’s talk about wildfire Car insurance coverage – what it is, what it isn’t, and why it matters.

The Short Answer: YES – If You Have the Right Coverage

If you have Comprehensive coverage, you are covered. End of story. (Well, almost.)

Here’s the deal: Comprehensive insurance is that optional but awesome part of your Auto policy that protects your car against “acts of nature” (among other things). And yes, wildfire is definitely in that category.

So when it comes to wildfire Car insurance coverage, Comprehensive is your hero. If your car is damaged or even completely destroyed in a wildfire, your coverage can help pay to repair or replace your vehicle, up to the actual cash value – minus your deductible, of course.

Wildfires don’t just affect your car – they can threaten your home and everything in it. That’s why it’s so important to have the right protection in place ahead of time.
Here’s why getting proper insurance coverage before fire season is so important.

Check your policy. If you see a deductible listed under “Comprehensive,” congrats—you have it! If you’re not sure, take a moment to learn more about Comprehensive Auto Insurance Coverage or reach out to your broker.

What Does Comprehensive Coverage Actually Cover?

Think of it as the “stuff you didn’t see coming” coverage. It includes:

  • Fire (including wildfires, garage fires, engine fires)
  • Theft and vandalism
  • Hail, floods, and falling trees
  • Animal collisions (hello, deer season!)
  • Natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes, and yep – wildfires

Important: You Have to Have It Before the Fire

You can’t add Comprehensive coverage while a wildfire is already heading your way. Insurance companies typically won’t allow changes to your policy if there’s an active wildfire in your area.

So, if you are in a fire-prone area – especially here in California – it’s smart to check your policy before fire season sparks up.

How Much Will It Cover?

That depends on your vehicle’s actual cash value (ACV), which takes depreciation into account. So, if you’ve got a newer ride, the payout could be pretty solid. If your car has seen better days? Well, it may be time to start car shopping – with the insurance check, of course.

What If I Only Have Liability Coverage?

Sadly, nope. Liability insurance only pays for damage you cause to others, not for damage to your own car. That means if you are only carrying liability, and a wildfire torches your vehicle – your insurance won’t pay a dime.

My Two Cents as an Insurance Broker

Wildfires are unpredictable and fast-moving. If you rely solely on basic coverage, it’s a financial risk – not just an inconvenience. Adding wildfire Car insurance coverage through Comprehensive coverage is not very expensive compared to the peace of mind it brings.

So give your agent or broker a quick call and ask: Do I have Comprehensive? What’s my deductible? Am I protected if my car is damaged in a fire? Trust me, it’s better to ask now than after the smoke clears.

Final Word

Cars can be replaced. But if you’ve got the right coverage in place, at least your vehicle won’t be a total loss in the middle of a wildfire crisis. And that’s one less thing to worry about.