If an insured strikes a pothole causing a flat tire, which coverage applies under the personal auto policy?

In the context of a Personal Auto Policy (PAP), damage resulting from hitting a pothole generally falls under the category of wear and tear maintenance issues rather than an accident covered by the policy. The standard PAP typically excludes coverage for damage that arises from road conditions, including potholes, as such incidents are considered to be part of the vehicle's regular use and maintenance. Collision coverage, which might apply to accidents involving another vehicle or object, does not extend to scenarios like flat tires caused by potholes. Therefore, the correct understanding of the policy's provisions highlights that this particular loss—hitting a pothole leading to a flat tire—is not covered by the personal auto insurance policy.