What Events Are Covered Under Specified Perils?
See the exact types of risks this coverage protects against and what it leaves out
Specified perils coverage in auto insurance offers targeted protection. It covers damage to your vehicle, but only if it results from a cause explicitly listed in your policy. If it’s not named, it’s not covered.
This matters when you're looking to save on your premium while still covering the most serious risks—like theft or fire. You might think about this the next time you're comparing comprehensive and limited protection options on an older vehicle.
The Named Events Typically Covered
Most insurers define the following events as “specified perils.” If your car is damaged or lost due to one of these, your policy will help cover the cost of repairs or replacement (up to your vehicle’s actual cash value).
| Peril | Description |
|---|---|
| Fire | Accidental or spontaneous ignition that damages the vehicle |
| Theft or attempted theft | Stolen vehicle or damage from a failed theft |
| Lightning | Damage from electrical surge caused by a lightning strike |
| Windstorm or hail | Dents, broken glass, or paint damage from severe weather |
| Earthquake | Damage from ground shaking or resulting collapse |
| Explosion | Damage from combustion, such as a nearby vehicle or structure exploding |
| Riot or civil disturbance | Damage during protests, riots, or public disturbances |
| Falling or flying object | Includes tree limbs, ice chunks, or debris from storms |
| Transport accident | Damage while vehicle is on a ship, train, or trailer in transit |
What’s Not Covered
Specified perils coverage only protects against events on the named list. It does not cover:
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Vandalism or intentional damage
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Animal collisions (such as hitting a deer)
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Broken glass not related to a covered peril
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Flood or water damage
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Damage from regular use, wear and tear, or rust
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Falling behind on maintenance leading to mechanical failure
Note: These gaps are typically covered by comprehensive insurance, which includes a much broader range of non-collision events.
When This Coverage Might Be Enough
If your car is older or you’re trying to reduce your premium, you may find specified perils a useful middle ground. It covers the biggest and most expensive risks—like fire and theft—while leaving out those that are either rare, less costly to fix, or manageable with savings.
This option can work well if:
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You primarily park your vehicle in a garage or low-risk area
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You’re less concerned about cosmetic damage or minor incidents
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You have emergency savings to handle risks not covered (like vandalism or animal damage)
Choosing specified perils means accepting narrower protection, but it can still be a practical solution when full comprehensive coverage feels unnecessary or too expensive.
Clarity Matters in Limited Coverage
Specified perils insurance is about naming exactly what you want to be covered for—and nothing else. It’s a cost-conscious way to protect against major, catastrophic losses, but only if you know what it includes. Reviewing the covered events helps ensure your coverage matches the reality of the risks you’re most concerned about.