Comprehensive Auto Insurance Covers What?

Auto insurance is a necessary expense that every car owner should consider. It is a legal requirement in many states to have at least liability insurance to cover damages caused by an accident. However, liability insurance only covers damages caused to other drivers and vehicles, not your own. Comprehensive auto insurance is an optional coverage that provides additional protection beyond liability insurance.

What is Comprehensive Auto Insurance?

Comprehensive auto insurance is also known as “other than collision” insurance. This coverage pays for damages caused by events other than a collision with another vehicle, such as theft, fire, vandalism, or weather-related incidents. It also covers damages caused by collisions with animals, like deer or moose.

Comprehensive auto insurance is not required by law, but it can provide peace of mind to car owners who want to protect their investment. It can also be a requirement of lenders or lessors for financed or leased vehicles.

What Does Comprehensive Auto Insurance Cover?

Comprehensive auto insurance covers a wide range of damages beyond just collisions with other vehicles. Here is a comprehensive list of what is typically covered by comprehensive auto insurance:

Comprehensive auto insurance also covers glass repairs or replacement, like windshields or windows. It may also cover damages caused by falling objects, like branches or rocks.

What is Not Covered by Comprehensive Auto Insurance?

While comprehensive auto insurance covers a broad range of events, there are some things that it does not cover. Here are some examples of what is usually not covered by comprehensive auto insurance:

• Damage caused by a collision with another vehicle or object.
• Medical expenses or bodily injury to you or your passengers.
• Personal belongings inside your car, like a phone or a laptop.
• Customized parts or accessories that were not factory-installed.
• Mechanical breakdown or wear and tear of your vehicle.

If you want coverage for damages caused by collisions, you will need to add collision insurance to your policy. It is also recommended to have liability insurance to cover damages caused to other drivers or their property.

FAQ about Comprehensive Auto Insurance

1. How much does comprehensive auto insurance cost?

The cost of comprehensive auto insurance varies depending on several factors, such as your location, driving record, age, and the value of your vehicle. On average, comprehensive auto insurance adds around $100-$200 per year to your premium.

2. Do I need comprehensive auto insurance if my car is old?

It depends on the value of your car and how much you can afford to lose if it is damaged or stolen. If your car is worth less than $3,000, it may not be worth the cost of comprehensive auto insurance. However, if you cannot afford to replace your car or you rely on it for transportation, comprehensive auto insurance can provide valuable protection.

3. Does comprehensive auto insurance have a deductible?

Yes, comprehensive auto insurance usually has a deductible, which is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. The deductible amount can range from $100 to $1,000 or more, depending on your policy. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium, but it also means you will pay more out of pocket in case of a claim.

4. Can I add comprehensive auto insurance mid-policy?

Yes, you can add or remove comprehensive auto insurance at any time during your policy term, but it may affect your premium. If you add comprehensive auto insurance mid-policy, you will need to pay the pro-rated amount for the remaining period.

5. How do I file a claim for comprehensive auto insurance?

If you need to file a claim for damages covered by your comprehensive auto insurance, you should contact your insurance company as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claim process and may require documentation, such as a police report or photos of the damages. It is important to review your policy to understand the coverage limits and deductibles before filing a claim.

Conclusion

Comprehensive auto insurance is a valuable coverage that can protect you from a wide range of events beyond just collisions with other vehicles. It can provide peace of mind to car owners who want to protect their investment and be prepared for unexpected events. However, it is important to understand what is covered and what is not covered by your policy, as well as the cost and deductible amounts. If you have any questions or doubts about your auto insurance coverage, it is recommended to consult with a licensed insurance agent.