Introduction
When you find yourself locked out of your car, you may wonder if your car insurance policy covers the cost of a locksmith. After all, car insurance policies are designed to protect you in the event of an accident or theft, so it’s natural to assume that they may cover other types of unexpected expenses as well.
The Short Answer
The short answer to the question of whether car insurance covers locksmith services is that it depends on your specific policy. Some car insurance policies do include coverage for locksmith services, while others do not. The best way to find out if your policy covers locksmith services is to check your policy documents or contact your insurance provider directly.
Types of Car Insurance Coverage
Before we dive into the specifics of whether car insurance covers locksmith services, it’s important to understand the different types of car insurance coverage. The three most common types of car insurance coverage are liability, collision, and comprehensive.
Liability coverage is the most basic type of car insurance and is required by law in most states. It covers damage or injury that you cause to other people or their property while driving your car.
Collision coverage is optional and covers damage to your own car in the event of an accident.
Comprehensive coverage is also optional and covers damage to your car that is not the result of an accident, such as theft, vandalism, or weather-related damage.
Does Liability Coverage Include Locksmith Services?
Unfortunately, liability coverage does not typically include locksmith services. Liability coverage is designed to protect you in the event that you cause damage or injury to other people or their property, not to cover your own expenses.
Does Collision Coverage Include Locksmith Services?
Similarly, collision coverage does not typically include locksmith services. Collision coverage is designed to cover damage to your own car in the event of an accident, not to cover expenses related to locking yourself out of your car.
Does Comprehensive Coverage Include Locksmith Services?
Comprehensive coverage may include locksmith services, but it depends on your specific policy. Some comprehensive policies include coverage for locksmith services, while others do not. The best way to find out if your policy includes locksmith coverage is to check your policy documents or contact your insurance provider directly.
What If I Don’t Have Comprehensive Coverage?
If you don’t have comprehensive coverage or if your policy does not include locksmith coverage, you may still be able to get help from your insurance company. Some insurance companies offer roadside assistance plans that include locksmith services. These plans are typically offered as an optional add-on to your existing policy for an additional fee.
What If I Don’t Have Roadside Assistance?
If you don’t have roadside assistance or if your insurance company does not offer locksmith services, you can still call a locksmith to help you get back into your car. However, you will need to pay for the locksmith services out of your own pocket.
How Much Does a Locksmith Cost?
The cost of locksmith services can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including your location, the time of day, and the type of lock on your car. On average, you can expect to pay between $50 and $150 for a locksmith to unlock your car.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not car insurance covers locksmith services depends on your specific policy. Liability and collision coverage typically do not include locksmith services, while comprehensive coverage may or may not include locksmith services. If you don’t have comprehensive coverage or if your policy does not include locksmith coverage, you can still get help from a locksmith, but you will need to pay for the services out of your own pocket.
