Updated on - 02 Mar 2026
A brief lapse in attention or poor road conditions can sometimes result in your car crashing into a wall. In such situations, one of the first questions that comes to mind is whether your car insurance will cover the cost of repairs. The answer largely depends on the type of policy you hold. Liability coverage, which is the minimum required by law, only pays for damage or injury you cause to others. To cover damage to your own vehicle in such collisions, you would need a physical damage cover.
This blog explains what physical damage cover includes, what it leaves out and how it applies to collisions with walls.
What is covered under physical damage cover?
Physical damage cover helps pay for repairs to your car after an accident, theft or natural disaster. There are usually two main types:
- Collision cover: This covers damages to your car if it hits another car, object (like a wall or pole) or flips over.
- Comprehensive cover: This covers damage not caused by a crash. For example, fire, theft, vandalism, falling objects or weather-related issues like floods and hail.
So, if you get both of these covers as part of your car insurance online, your insurer may help pay for repairs depending on the cause of the damage.
What is not covered under physical damage cover?
Some common things not covered are:
- Wear and tear: Normal ageing of your car or damage from poor maintenance.
- Using your car for illegal activities: If the accident happens while doing something illegal, the claim might be rejected.
- Deliberate damage: If the damage is done on purpose, even by someone else, the claim may be denied.
- Driving under the influence: If you are found to be driving under alcohol or drugs, your insurer may not pay.
Is wall collision covered by car insurance?
If you crash into a wall, the damage to your car is usually covered only if you have collision cover. Standard or basic third-party insurance will not cover the cost. Here is what you need to know:
- Fault considerations: If your car hitting a wall is your fault, such as accidentally reversing into a wall, collision coverage is necessary to cover the damage to your vehicle.
- Collision coverage details: Collision coverage extends to incidents involving contact with another vehicle or object, including walls.
- Deductible consideration: While collision coverage can cover damages, policyholders may still be responsible for paying a deductible before the insurance coverage takes effect.
Why opt for physical damage car insurance?
Some reasons to consider physical damage cover:
- Protection from accidents, whether it’s your fault or not.
- Covers non-collision events like floods, storms, fire or theft.
- Many insurers also offer tow truck services or a temporary car while yours is fixed.
Conclusion
If your car is new or you want better protection from unexpected costs, comprehensive car insurance that covers physical damage is often worth the extra cost. It helps pay for repairs to your car, though it won’t fix the wall itself (unless it’s someone else’s and you have third-party cover).
If you are unsure about what kind of cover you have, or if you are thinking about improving your current policy, help is available. Fill out the form on this page to get car insurance advice based on your situation.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.