West Virginia roads can be rough after winter—here’s how insurance can help with repairs.
After a long winter, West Virginia roads tend to show the wear and tear of freezing temperatures, snow, and salt. That means one thing for drivers: potholes. They pop up overnight, crack tires, bend rims, and rattle suspensions—and the repair bills can add up fast.
So, does auto insurance cover pothole damage? The answer depends on your policy.
What’s Usually Covered
If you carry collision coverage, you’re likely in luck. Collision coverage helps pay to repair your car if it’s damaged by hitting another vehicle or object—including potholes. You’ll still need to pay your deductible, but the rest of the repair costs may be covered.
What’s Not Covered
If you only have liability coverage, pothole damage won’t be covered. Liability is designed to protect others in an accident you cause—not damage to your own vehicle.
Also, keep in mind that wear and tear isn’t covered under any policy. If your tires were already worn or your suspension was due for maintenance, your insurance won’t pick up the tab.
Filing a Claim: Is It Worth It?
Filing a pothole damage claim could raise your premiums, especially if you’ve had other recent claims. If the repair cost is close to your deductible, it may make more sense to pay out-of-pocket. But if the damage is significant, your insurance could save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars.
You Might Be Able to Get Reimbursed by the State
If the pothole was on a state-maintained road, you can also file a claim with the West Virginia Division of Highways. It’s not a quick process, but the state can reimburse you for repair costs—including your insurance deductible. To be eligible, you’ll need to:
- Provide a detailed description of the incident
- Include photos and repair receipts
- File within the required timeframe
For more details and instructions, visit the WV DOH claim page or check out this helpful guide from WSAZ.
Not Sure What Your Coverage Includes?
That’s what we’re here for. At Davis Insurance, we’ll walk you through your policy and help you understand what’s covered before the unexpected happens. Give us a call or stop by—we’ll make sure you’re protected, no matter how rough the roads get.