Car Damaged by Fallen Tree or Storm?
You're enjoying a teh tarik during a heavy Malaysian downpour. Then you hear a loud thud. A fallen branch (or worse, a whole tree) has just landed on your car.
The real question is: will your car insurance cover it?
What Special Perils Add-On Covers
Most Comprehensive car insurance policies in Malaysia do not automatically cover damage caused by natural disasters.
To be protected against events like:
Floods
Storms
Fallen trees or branches caused by a storm or other natural disaster
Landslides
You'll generally need an add-on called Special Perils.
What's covered can differ between insurers. Some lower-tier plans only cover floods and storms, not landslides. Check your policy schedule or Product Disclosure Sheet to see exactly what's included.
Without it: you'll likely have to pay for natural disaster damage out of your own pocket
With it: your insurer may cover the damage, subject to your policy terms and excess
What to Do If a Tree Falls on Your Car
If you find your car under a tree, stay calm. These steps can help your claim go more smoothly:
Document everything. Take clear photos and videos of the damage and the surrounding area, including the tree, the weather conditions, and your number plate.
Make a police report. Insurers usually ask for one, so lodge it as soon as possible.
Notify your insurer immediately. Contact them before moving the vehicle, unless you need to move it for safety.
Tips: If you're a Drive+ Member, our Customer Service team can guide you step by step when submitting your claim. PolicyStreet doesn't submit claims on your behalf, and your insurer still assesses and decides on the claim.
Save on Renewal Costs with Drive+ Membership
Even with the right coverage, dealing with a claim can be stressful. Drive+ doesn't add to your insurance coverage. What it does give you is loyalty rewards and support that can help you save on renewals.
What Drive+ Offers
Road tax discount: Up to RM120 off your road tax renewal, depending on your membership tier.
Battery replacement voucher: A RM40 battery replacement voucher.
Claim guidance: Personalised, step-by-step support from our Customer Service team when you submit an insurance claim.
Don't wait for a tree to tell you that you need better coverage. Check out our guide to review your coverage, make your car insurance renewal with PolicyStreet and select Drive+ when you check out now!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is car insurance the same as road tax in Malaysia?
No. Car insurance protects you financially against accidents, theft or damage. Road tax is a mandatory government fee to use Malaysian roads. You cannot renew your road tax without valid car insurance first.
2. Does standard comprehensive insurance cover fallen trees?
Generally no if the tree fell because of a storm or other natural disaster. That type of damage usually needs the Special Perils add-on. Check your policy schedule for "Special Perils" or natural disaster cover, and ask your insurer if you're unsure.
3. How do I claim for storm damage if I have Drive+?
Reach out to our Customer Service team. We'll guide you step by step on the documents you need and the procedure to follow. Drive+ doesn't provide storm coverage, though. You'll still need Special Perils on your policy, and your insurer makes the final decision on your claim.
4. Can I get free road tax through PolicyStreet?
Yes. Drive+ members can get up to RM120 off their road tax renewal, depending on their membership tier. You can also check our ongoing promotional campaigns for eligible promo codes and cash vouchers when you renew with us.
