I ran over something, and my tire blew out. I’m wondering if USAA will cover this. I’ve read mixed things online, and I’m not sure whether I should file a claim or just replace the tire myself. Has anyone had experience with this?
If you ran over something, it would fall under collision coverage, and that’s considered an at-fault accident. It will likely raise your rates. Before filing a claim, get an estimate to see if it’s worth paying out of pocket.
@Talon
Thanks for the heads-up! I think I’ll just get it checked out at a tire shop tomorrow and avoid filing.
praizey said:
@Talon
Thanks for the heads-up! I think I’ll just get it checked out at a tire shop tomorrow and avoid filing.
Good call. Also, when you buy new tires, most places offer a road hazard warranty. It’s worth it because it gives some protection for future issues like this.
If you’re using your spare, move it to the back. You don’t want a donut on the front steering axle.
Devin said:
If you’re using your spare, move it to the back. You don’t want a donut on the front steering axle.
Exactly. Don’t drive with a donut on the front, it’s risky.
Devin said:
If you’re using your spare, move it to the back. You don’t want a donut on the front steering axle.
Exactly. Don’t drive with a donut on the front, it’s risky.
There are some exceptions, like certain rear-wheel-drive cars that recommend not using a donut on the rear because of the differential. But in most cases, keep it on the back.
@Jamie
Right. Always check your car’s manual for specific instructions.
Usually, car insurance doesn’t cover tires unless they’re damaged as part of an accident. If you have roadside assistance, they might help with towing or a flat change. Filing a claim for just the tire might not be worth it unless there’s other damage.
Tires are usually cheaper than your deductible anyway. If you file a claim, it will raise your rates, and you’ll still end up paying most of the cost.
Do you have road hazard coverage? If not, the tire replacement will likely cost less than your deductible.
You can replace a tire, or both front ones, for under $500. I replaced all four on my truck for $850 recently. Shop around online for deals.
Vinn said:
You can replace a tire, or both front ones, for under $500. I replaced all four on my truck for $850 recently. Shop around online for deals.
Here’s a link to some options: Goodyear Assurance MaxLifeTireSize215/55R17 | Pep Boys
This would fall under collision, but unless there’s other damage, it’s probably smarter to buy a new tire and use roadside assistance to get to a tire shop.
I hit a pothole once, blew out the tire and rim, and USAA covered it. It counted as an at-fault accident, though.
I wouldn’t file a claim for just a tire. If you bought your tires at Costco or a similar place, they might cover this kind of issue.
Try a used tire shop. You can get a decent used tire for around $50. Definitely avoid going through insurance for this.
Most insurance policies have a tire exclusion, meaning they won’t cover damage to just the tire. But if there’s other damage caused by the same incident, they might cover everything.
No, unless it’s related to vandalism. And even then, you’d still need to deal with a high deductible.
This should fall under comprehensive coverage, minus your deductible.