What Happens If My Car Is Damaged by Debris From a Tornado?
Tornadoes in Texas can cause widespread destruction in minutes. Flying debris — including tree limbs, roofing materials, fencing, and even street signs — can severely damage vehicles. If your car is hit during a tornado, whether repairs are covered depends on the type of auto insurance you carry.
Does Auto Insurance Cover Tornado Damage?
Tornado-related damage is typically covered under comprehensive coverage, not collision coverage. Comprehensive insurance covers damage caused by events outside of your control, including:
- Tornadoes
- Windstorms
- Falling objects
- Hail
- Flooding
- Fire
If you only carry liability insurance (which covers damage you cause to others), your own vehicle damage will not be covered.
What If Debris Hits My Parked Car?
If debris from a tornado strikes your parked vehicle, comprehensive coverage generally applies. This includes damage from:
- Fallen trees
- Flying shingles
- Broken glass
- Detached building materials
You will be responsible for your comprehensive deductible before your insurer pays the remaining repair costs.
What If I Was Driving During the Storm?
Even if you were driving when debris struck your vehicle, tornado-related damage is still typically considered a comprehensive claim, not collision, unless you crash into another object or vehicle. If you lose control and hit a guardrail or another car, that portion of the damage may fall under collision coverage.
What About Total Loss Situations?
If your car is declared a total loss, your insurance company will usually pay the actual cash value of the vehicle at the time of the loss, minus your deductible. ACV accounts for depreciation, not what you originally paid for the car.
Does Location Matter in Texas?
Unlike coastal wind coverage for homes — sometimes handled through the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association — tornado damage to vehicles is handled through your personal auto policy. TWIA does not cover vehicles.
Steps to Take After Tornado Damage
If your vehicle is damaged:
- Take photos of the damage immediately.
- Contact your insurer as soon as possible.
- Prevent further damage if it’s safe to do so.
- Keep receipts for temporary repairs or towing.
Reviewing your policy before storm season is key. If you do not carry comprehensive coverage, tornado debris damage will likely come out of pocket.
