Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 3/8/2010

Question
QUESTION: The front bumper got road chip when I drove my car behind a truck. Is the road chip damage covered by the comprehensive or collision? My comprehensive deduction is $50 but the collision is $250. Thank you for your answer.

ANSWER: Hi Ray,

Generally this type of damage would be paid under the collision coverage. I would suggest that rock chip damage is very minor and to make a claim for such damage would likely increase your premiums my more than the amount of your claim. You would be better to either just live with the rock chips of pay for the repairs out of pocket and not file a claim.

Also, in order to reduce your premiums, you should consider increasing your deductibles to $500.00 for both comprehensive and collision.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Unfortunately, you are incorrect. The road chip is covered by the comprehensive just like the chip on the window shield. I know you are an adjuster and do not encourage people to file the claim. I do not worry about the premium increase. If people buy the insurance but do not use it. It sounds stupid. If the insurance increases the premium because of the claim, people can shop around. My auto insurance premium is always low as I shop around. The road chip damage will be paid from my comprehensive coverage.

Answer
Hi Ray,

Thanks for the clarification. However, I'm not sure why you asked the question if you already knew the answer. I was just giving you what I thought would be the correct answer. The fact of the matter is that in over 20 years in the business I have never heard of anyone making a claim for minor rock chips on a bumper cover. I'm glad you got it covered and that you shop around for better premiums.

Richard Hixenbaugh