Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a brake failure?

Auto insurance covers damage caused by brake failure in some cases. Your car insurance policy may help with damage caused by brake failure, depending on the type of coverage you have and how the brake failure damage was caused. Liability auto insurance will cover damage to other drivers but not your vehicle.

By clicking, you agree to our Terms of Use

Nationwide State Farm Allstate
AllstateProgressiveState FarmNationwideLiberty MutualFarmers Insurance
Melanie Musson

Published Insurance Expert

Melanie Musson is the fourth generation in her family to work in the insurance industry. She grew up with insurance talk as part of her everyday conversation and has studied to gain an in-depth knowledge of state-specific insurance laws and dynamics as well as a broad understanding of how insurance fits into every person’s life, from budgets to coverage levels. Through her years working in th...

Written by
Melanie Musson
Brandon Frady

Licensed Insurance Agent

Brandon Frady has been a licensed insurance agent and insurance office manager since 2018. He has experience in ventures from retail to finance, working positions from cashier to management, but it wasn’t until Brandon started working in the insurance industry that he truly felt at home in his career. In his day-to-day interactions, he aims to live out his business philosophy in how he treats hi...

Reviewed by
Brandon Frady

Updated July 2023

What You Should Know

  • Brake failure incidents can result in accidents and damage to your vehicle
  • Auto insurance coverage may vary depending on the policy and the circumstances of the brake failure
  • It’s important to review your policy and consult with your insurance provider to understand your coverage fully

When brake failure occurs, you may not have control of the vehicle or enough space to stop it gradually. This may result in an accident, damaging your vehicle. If you’re wondering if your auto insurance covers damage caused by a brake failure, you’re in the right place.

In this article, you’ll learn whether auto insurance policies typically provide coverage for brake failure incidents and related repairs. With this insight, you’ll have all you need to choose the right affordable auto insurance policy that suits your needs.

Understanding Auto Insurance Coverage for Brake Failure

Auto insurance policies have different components that offer varying levels of coverage. Such auto insurance coverage types include liability auto insurance, collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, personal injury protection (PIP), and medical payments coverage.

Each component serves a specific purpose and may offer different levels of coverage for brake failure incidents.

Liability Auto Insurance and Brake Failure

In most states, having liability insurance is mandatory. It covers the damage and injuries to others when you cause an accident.

Should you experience brake failure and collide with another vehicle or person’s property, liability coverage will apply. However, it won’t cover the damage to your vehicle caused by the brake failure.

Collision Auto Insurance and Brake Failure

While not mandatory, it’s highly advisable to have collision overage. This type of cover caters to damages to your vehicle after a collision, regardless of fault.

With collision coverage, you’ll likely have coverage for damage caused by brake failure. However, you should review your policy for specifics to understand your coverage level. Focus on deductibles and coverage limits.

Comprehensive Auto Insurance and Brake Failure

Comprehensive auto insurance coverage offers drivers additional protection by covering non-collision incidents like vandalism, theft, and natural disasters.

In some cases, comprehensive coverage may extend to cover damage resulting from brake failure incidents. However, be sure to go through your policy or consult your insurance provider to understand your coverage level.

Free Insurance Comparison

Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save

By clicking, you agree to our Terms of Use

Nationwide State Farm Allstate

Exceptions and Policy Limitations

While auto insurance companies that don’t monitor your driving generally offer coverage for brake failure incidents under collision or comprehensive insurance, certain exceptions and limitations may apply.

For example, your insurer may deny the claim if your brake failure results from neglecting routine maintenance or ignoring warning signs. It’s essential to follow the recommended maintenance guidelines for your vehicle and address any brake-related issues promptly.

Know How Much Your Auto Insurance Covers Damage Caused by a Brake Failure

In summary, whether your auto insurance covers damage caused by brake failure depends on the specific components of your policy. Each offers something unique, and the terms may vary between the best insurance providers.

Therefore, reviewing your policy and consulting with your insurance provider is crucial to ensure you have adequate coverage. If not, consider looking for insurance quotes to find more affordable car insurance to cover damage caused by a brake failure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my auto insurance cover brake failure incidents if I am at fault?

Liability coverage may cover damages to others if you are at fault in a brake failure incident, but it may not cover the damage to your vehicle. Collision or comprehensive coverage is more likely to provide financial protection for your vehicle.

What is liability coverage? 

Liability coverage is a component of auto insurance that primarily focuses on covering damages to others in accidents where you are at fault. It typically does not extend to cover the damage to your vehicle.

How can I ensure coverage for my vehicle in case of a brake failure incident?

Including collision coverage in your auto insurance policy is ideal if you want it to cover damage to your vehicle should an accident resulting from brake failure occurs. This insurance pays to repair or replace your vehicle should such an incident occur.

What is collision coverage?

Collision coverage is an optional component of an auto insurance policy that caters to the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle after an accident, regardless of fault. It is designed to provide financial protection for damages caused by accidents, including brake failure incidents.

Get a FREE Quote in Minutes

Insurance rates change constantly — we help you stay ahead by making it easy to compare top options and save.

By clicking, you agree to our Terms of Use

Nationwide State Farm Allstate
ProgressiveAllstateFarmers InsuranceLiberty Mutual

Free Auto Insurance Comparison

Compare over 200 auto insurance companies at once!

By clicking, you agree to our Terms of Use

Nationwide State Farm Allstate