Damage caused by car wash

Imagine, you drive your car through the car wash and after your car is all shiny again, you notice there is a scratch in your car. Who is liable for this damage, the car wash or you? And what should you do to get the settlement right? When is the...

When is the car wash responsible?

If damage occurs to your car at the car wash and it is not your fault, the owner of the car wash often has to fix it. This happens, for example, if the car wash is not working properly or if you are given wrong instructions. The owner has to make sure everything works safely. Also, if an employee accidentally damages your car, for example when drying it, the car wash is responsible. If this happens, you can ask the car wash to pay for the damage. If you get into trouble with this, legal expenses insurance can help.

As a driver, when are you responsible?

Sometimes, as a driver, you are responsible for damage yourself. This is the case if you don't do what the car wash says, or if you don't prepare your car properly. For example, if you don't fold the mirrors. Then you have to pay for the damage yourself. It is important that you do what is required and pay attention to what is not allowed. So always pay close attention to the instructions and signs in the car wash. This helps to avoid problems.

What does your car insurance cover?

Do you have damage to your car due to the car wash, but it is your own fault? Then your car insurance will only reimburse the cost if you have all-risk insurance. All-risk insurance, the most comprehensive insurance, covers damage to other vehicles as well as your own car. However, it is important to read your policy terms carefully to be sure of the coverage. Moreover, you may have to deal with deductibles.

Claim damage or pay for it yourself?

In case of car wash damage, it is not always smart to claim damages. According to www.geld.nl claiming damage affects your claim-free years and no-claim discount, leading to a higher premium. If you have many claim-free years and a high no-claim discount, it may be more financially advantageous to pay for small claims yourself. This prevents an increase in the insurance premium. So, especially for small claims, consider whether to claim the damage or pay for it yourself.