You had a great day at the ball game and your team won in the final inning. Unfortunately, one of the other team’s faithful didn’t appreciate the flags, bumper stickers and other fan-decor on your car. You emerge to find jeers about your team’s hitting ability scratched into your paint.

How much does it cost to repair extensive paint damage?

Like most of these repairs, the cost to repaint a car can vary depending on the damage.

However, let’s assume that one entire side of the vehicle is severely damaged. On the cheap side (think Maaco), a single-stage enamel paint that basically just refreshes the look of the car can run between $300 and $1,000 depending on the vehicle.

In this case, you’re probably going to need some repair work and a more detailed paint job due to the massive scratches which will most likely push the price range up to $1,000 to $3,500.

If you’re looking for a top of the line paint job or are driving a luxury vehicle, the cost of repainting a car can easily skyrocket up to $7,000.

Auto insurance coverage:

Auto insurance claims for damage due to vandalism can be filed if you have comprehensive coverage, subject to your deductible.

This type of damage falls under the vandalism heading and vandalism is covered by “comprehensive” coverage. Comprehensive isn’t a required coverage in any state.

Comprehensive coverage will pay out for damage to your car that is caused by something other than a collision. Here are just a few things that comprehensive covers:

• Theft
• Vandalism
• Fire
• Natural disasters
• Water damage
• Falling objects
• Damage done to your car by animals, such as hitting a deer
• Civil disturbance such as a riot

Comprehensive coverage comes with a deductible. You can choose your deductible and in most cases, the higher your deductible lowers your premium.

When it comes to comprehensive claims, it’s always a good idea to get a police report. Many insurance companies require it.

Should you make a claim?

As long as the claim amount is significantly more than your deductible, or more than you can comfortably pay out of pocket, you should consider making a claim. In most circumstances, because you’re not at fault, a comprehensive claim shouldn’t raise your premium

“In general, comprehensive claims may raise your premium but they are less likely to raise them compared to a collision claim,” advises Gusner, “Some states, such as New York, do not allow car insurance providers to surcharge drivers for comprehensive claims, however, if you have multiple comprehensive claims on your record, expect your rates to go up,” warns Gusner.