CarInsurance.com Insights
- Comprehensive insurance usually covers damage from flying or falling road debris.
- Collision coverage applies if you hit debris that is stationary in the road.
- Liability insurance does not cover damage to your own vehicle.
- Dashcam footage or witness information can help determine fault and claim outcome.
- Your deductible and coverage limits determine how much insurance will pay.
What counts as road debris?
Road debris includes objects that fall, fly or sit in the roadway and cause vehicle damage. Common examples include:
- Rocks or gravel kicked up by other vehicles
- Fallen tree branches
- Tire fragments from commercial trucks
- Lost cargo (furniture, ladders, tools)
- Construction materials
How insurance responds depends on whether the debris was moving or stationary at the time of impact.
Does insurance cover damage from road debris?
Yes — but the type of coverage that applies depends on the situation.
If the debris was flying or falling:
Damage is typically covered by comprehensive insurance. For example, a truck kicks up a rock that cracks your windshield.
If you hit debris lying in the road:
Damage is usually covered by collision insurance. For example, you run over a ladder that fell off a vehicle.
If you only carry liability coverage:
Damage to your own vehicle is not covered.
Comprehensive vs. collision: What’s the difference?
| Situation | Coverage type | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Rock hits windshield | Comprehensive | Considered a non-collision event |
| Tree branch falls on parked car | Comprehensive | Falling object |
| You swerve and hit guardrail | Collision | Impact with object |
| You strike tire debris in lane | Collision | Vehicle struck stationary object |
What to do after hitting road debris
- Pull over safely and turn on hazard lights.
- Document the scene with photos of damage and debris.
- Check for witnesses and gather contact information.
- File a police report if damage is significant or injuries occur.
- Contact your insurer promptly to start the claim process.
If another driver’s unsecured load caused the damage and you can identify them, their liability insurance may pay.
Speak with a friendly agent and get your quote in minutes!
Will filing a claim raise your rates?
It depends on several factors, such as:
- Comprehensive claims (like windshield damage) often have less impact on rates than at-fault collision claims.
- Multiple claims within a short period may increase premiums.
- State laws and insurer policies vary.
Before filing, compare:
- Repair cost estimate
- Your deductible
- Potential rate impact
If repair costs are only slightly above your deductible, paying out of pocket may make sense.
When another driver is responsible
If debris fell from another vehicle and you can identify the driver:
- Their property damage liability insurance may cover your repairs.
- Evidence (dashcam, witness statements) strengthens your claim.
- Without proof, your insurer may treat it as a collision claim.
Unsecured loads are illegal in many states, but proving fault can be difficult unless you capture the incident.
Common coverage gaps drivers miss
Here are some common coverage gaps that drivers miss:
- No comprehensive coverage (common with older vehicles)
- High deductible that exceeds minor repair cost
- Assuming windshield damage is always free (coverage varies)
- Not understanding difference between flying vs. stationary debris
- Dropping full coverage on financed vehicles
Frequently Asked Questions: Hitting road debris
Is hitting road debris considered an at-fault accident?
If you hit stationary debris, it’s often treated as a collision claim and may be considered at fault. Flying debris is typically handled under comprehensive and may not count as at-fault.
Does insurance cover windshield damage from rocks?
Yes, if you carry comprehensive coverage. Some states require insurers to waive the deductible for windshield repairs.
Can I sue a truck driver for falling cargo damage?
If you can prove the debris fell from their vehicle and caused your damage, you may file a claim against their liability insurance or pursue legal action.
Is it worth filing a road debris claim?
File a claim if repair costs significantly exceed your deductible. If the damage is minor, paying out of pocket may prevent potential rate increases.
What if I don’t have comprehensive or collision coverage?
If you carry liability-only insurance, you’ll likely have to pay for your own repairs unless another driver is proven responsible.
Still have a question? Ask our experts
Get advice from an experienced insurance professional. Our experts will help you navigate your insurance questions with clarity and confidence.
Browse all FAQs
