Road Hazard Insurance: What You Need to Know

Road hazard insurance is a type of coverage that protects your vehicle from damage caused by potholes, debris, and other road hazards. It's a relatively new concept, but it's gaining popularity among drivers who want to avoid costly repairs.

Most road hazard insurance policies cover damage to tires, wheels, and other vehicle components. In some cases, they may also cover rental car fees or other expenses incurred while your vehicle is being repaired.

Road hazard insurance is often offered as an add-on to existing auto insurance policies, but some companies also sell it as a standalone product. This means you can purchase it even if you don't have a traditional auto insurance policy.

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Road hazard insurance can be a bit confusing, but understanding what's covered can help you make an informed decision. Road hazard coverage, also known as a road hazard warranty or protection plan, is a warranty on tires that covers the cost of tire puncture repairs or tire replacements due to non-negligent driving.

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To be eligible for road hazard coverage, the damage must occur as a result of everyday driving, caused by a puncture or break from debris such as nails, broken glass, and potholes, and the tire must have a remaining tread depth of at least 2/32”. This means if your tire is already worn down to less than 2/32” of tread depth, you're not covered.

Some tire dealers may offer to "throw in" a road hazard warranty to close the sale, but be aware that this free offer may have limited benefits. For example, a road hazard protection plan may cover tire repairs (typically a $20 cost) but, if the tire is not repairable, you are on your own.

Here are some things that are typically not covered by road hazard warranties:

Even the most cautious drivers will encounter a flat tire or damaged wheel along the way.

The cost of repairing or replacing a damaged tire or wheel can be significant, which is why having a Road Hazard Tire & Wheel Protection Plan in place can be a lifesaver.

You can help safeguard your tires with this type of protection plan, which is designed to cover unexpected expenses.

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The Road Hazard Tire & Wheel Protection Plan is a valuable addition to your vehicle's coverage. This plan repairs or replaces tires damaged by road hazards, road surface conditions, and debris on the road surface.

The plan provides for the replacement of wheels when they cannot be balanced, will not hold air, or the damage has affected the structural integrity of the wheel. The maximum lifetime benefit of the plan is $5,000.

Deluxe Coverage includes cosmetic damage to an alloy or steel factory wheel, but the maximum lifetime benefit of $5,000 does not apply. You'll want to consider this option if you're concerned about the appearance of your wheels.

In the event your vehicle cannot be repaired within the same day, the plan provides reimbursement up to $50 for a single day of alternate transportation, such as public transportation, rental car services, or ridesharing services.

Here's a breakdown of what's covered under the plan:

Remember to carefully review the contract terms and conditions for exact coverage, exclusions, and limitations.

Road hazard warranties can be a smart investment for car owners, and understanding the cost is key.

The cost of a road hazard warranty can vary depending on the tire type and size. For example, a $200 winter/snow tire can have a warranty of $20 to $30.

You can estimate the cost of your warranty by looking at the average tire costs. A compact car with 12-15 inch wheels can expect to pay between $8-$23 for a road hazard warranty.

The cost is usually a percentage of the tire price, such as 12% or 15%. For instance, a $175 tire may cost you $21 to $26.25 to be covered.

Some plans offer a set price, like $10, that covers tires regardless of cost. This can be a more straightforward option.

Here's a breakdown of the average cost per road hazard warranty for different tire types and sizes:

Ultimately, the cost of a road hazard warranty will depend on your specific needs and the type of tire you have.

Road hazard insurance can be a lifesaver, but it's essential to understand the details before signing up. The devil is in the details, after all.

The cost of road hazard insurance varies, but it's usually a percentage of the tire's selling price, such as 12% or 15%. This means a $175 tire may cost you $21 to $26.25 to be covered.

Some tire dealers may offer to "throw in" a road hazard warranty to close the sale, but this free offer may have limited benefits. Make sure you ask questions until you're clear on what is or isn't covered.

A good road hazard protection plan should have uncomplicated, clear-cut explanations of what is covered and for how long. Look for plans that will replace the tire based on time, not tread wear.

The best plans offer a set price, such as $10, that covers tires regardless of cost. This can be a more cost-effective option in the long run.

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You should also ask if the cost of installation (mounting and balancing) is part of the "free" replacement. This is an important detail to consider when choosing a road hazard warranty.

It's also a good idea to get a copy of the plan in writing, or have coverage documented on your invoice. This will help prevent any confusion or disputes down the line.

If you file a road hazard claim, it's usually for tire damage that requires repair or replacement. This type of claim is submitted to your auto insurance company or warranty provider.

A road hazard claim specifically covers damage from debris on the road, not from collisions, which are handled differently. If your tire is damaged from a collision, it would be considered a collision claim.

Policyholders submit road hazard claims for tire damage caused by road hazards like potholes, rocks, or other road debris.

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A claim is a formal request submitted to an insurance company or warranty provider for reimbursement or service.

Claims can be submitted for various reasons, such as damage to tires from road hazards.

A road hazard claim, for example, is specifically for tire damage caused by debris on the road.

If the damage is from a collision, it would be classified as a collision claim, not a road hazard claim.

Claims can be submitted for reimbursement or service, and it's essential to understand the type of claim you're making to get the right assistance.

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If you have a road hazard protection plan, you'll want to know where to go for service. You might need to return to the original place of purchase, or you might have the option to go to any of the dealer's other locations.

You should also ask about the process for getting your damaged tire replaced. Is there a requirement to return the damaged tire to get your money back?

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The dollar limit on the replacement tire is also something to consider. What is the maximum amount you'll be covered for? Are you responsible for amounts over the original cost of the tire?

You should also ask if you can get road hazard coverage on the replacement tire again from your original dealer. And, it's a good idea to get an 800 number to call to ask about reimbursement.

Here are some questions to ask your dealer:

Tire insurance is not the same as vehicle insurance, and it's designed to cover specific types of road hazards.

Many people believe that tire insurance is a waste of money, but the truth is that it can provide significant financial protection in the event of a tire-related accident.

Tire insurance typically covers damage to tires caused by road hazards such as potholes, curbs, and glass.

According to statistics, up to 40% of tire damage is caused by road hazards.

Road hazard insurance can be purchased as an add-on to vehicle insurance or as a standalone policy.

Some policies may have a deductible that must be paid before the insurance coverage kicks in.

A deductible of $50 to $100 is common for road hazard insurance policies.

In some cases, tire insurance may not cover damage caused by wear and tear or maintenance-related issues.

Tire insurance is not a substitute for regular tire maintenance and inspections.

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You should consider buying road hazard coverage when you purchase your tires from the same company, as this is usually when the coverage is most effective.

If you wait too long and need a tire repair or replacement, the coverage won't work retroactively for damages, so it's best to get it at the same time you buy your tires.

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Buy coverage when you purchase your tires from the same company, as this is usually the best time to get it. This way, you can get the coverage at the same time as your tires and avoid any potential issues down the line.

If you wait too long and need a tire repair or replacement, the coverage won't work retroactively for damages.

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Some dealers will let you decide later to buy road hazard warranty coverage, giving you time to think it over or get advice from others.

This means you can avoid making a decision on the spot, but it also means you'll need to make a return trip to the tire dealer.

You'll want to find out what the time or mileage limits are for buying the coverage later, so you know what you're dealing with.

If something happens to your tires after the sale, buying coverage later won't cover pre-existing damages, so it's a bit of a gamble.