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- Collision coverage is the primary type of auto insurance that may cover pothole damage, including bent rims and tires.
- Liability‑only insurance does not cover damage to your own vehicle from potholes.
- If your rims are aftermarket or custom, you may need additional equipment coverage for full protection.
- Filing a claim for pothole damage means paying your collision deductible first; minor damage may be cheaper to repair out of pocket.
- In rare cases, you might pursue reimbursement from a city, county or state agency responsible for road maintenance, but this process can be complicated.
Road potholes are depressions or breaks in pavement that form from traffic wear and weather stress.
Hitting one at speed can cause visible damage like a bent rim or flat tire, as well as hidden issues such as misaligned wheels, suspension damage or steering problems.
The severity and cost of repairs vary widely depending on the vehicle and the force of impact.
Which insurance coverage applies to pothole damage?
Car insurance coverage for pothole damage hinges on policy details:
- Collision coverage: This is the coverage most likely to pay for pothole damage because hitting a pothole is treated like colliding with an object. After you pay your deductible, collision insurance can help cover the cost of repairing bent rims, tires and other related damage.
- Liability‑only policies: If you only carry the state‑required minimum liability insurance, you are responsible for your own vehicle’s damage after hitting a pothole.
- Comprehensive coverage: Generally does not apply to pothole incidents because it covers non‑collision events like theft or hail, not impacts with road hazards.
Custom rims and aftermarket parts
Standard collision coverage usually handles original equipment parts. However, if you’ve installed aftermarket or custom rims, the value of those parts may not be fully covered unless you have additional custom parts and equipment coverage on your policy. Always disclose modifications to your insurer so coverage limits are clear.
Deciding whether to file an insurance claim
Before filing a claim for pothole damage:
- Obtain a repair estimate from a certified mechanic.
- Compare the cost to your deductible — if the total repair cost is less than or close to your deductible, it may make financial sense to pay out of pocket rather than file a claim.
- Consider that a collision claim may be treated as an at‑fault incident by your insurer, which can affect future premiums.
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Government reimbursement options
In some cases, municipalities or state agencies responsible for roadway maintenance may offer reimbursement for pothole damage if you can prove negligence — for example, that they knew but failed to repair a dangerous road condition.
This process often involves documentation, deadlines and a formal claim against the agency; not all jurisdictions offer compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions: Pothole damage and auto insurance
Does car insurance cover pothole damage to rims or tires?
Yes, if you have collision coverage. It can cover damage to rims, tires, suspension or alignment caused by hitting a pothole. You’ll need to pay your deductible first.
Is pothole damage covered under liability insurance?
No. Liability insurance only covers damage you cause to others, not your own vehicle. Pothole damage requires collision coverage.
Can I get reimbursed by the city or state for pothole damage?
Possibly, but it’s rare. Some cities or transportation departments allow you to file a claim, but you must prove the agency was negligent and knew about the hazard.
Will a pothole claim raise my insurance rates?
It might. Since pothole damage is typically a collision claim, some insurers treat it as an at-fault event, which could impact your premium.
Are custom rims covered by my insurance if damaged by a pothole?
Only if you’ve declared them and added custom equipment coverage to your policy. Standard coverage typically only reimburses for factory-installed parts.
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