In the insurance world, a lot of terminology gets thrown around and it can be hard to keep up — for example, many people think comprehensive coverage and full coverage car insurance are the same thing. Rather, comprehensive coverage is one type of insurance coverage available to you. Full coverage insurance, on the other hand, means you’ve purchased both liability and physical damage coverage to ensure you’re fully protected in the event of an accident.
Liability coverage may be mandatory in your state, while physical damage coverage is voluntary. Please check with your agent to confirm what’s required where you live.
Liability vs. Full Coverage Insurance
So what does full coverage car insurance cover? To be considered “full coverage”, your policy must include both liability, covering damage you cause to others, and physical damage, covering damage caused to your vehicle. Requirements vary by state, but typically full coverage means you have liability, comprehensive, collision, and under- or uninsured motorist coverage. These protections guarantee that you and your vehicle will be protected in the event of a car accident.
Comprehensive Coverage
Provides coverage for damage caused by accidents that don’t involve colliding with another vehicle or object, like vandalism or hitting an animal.
Collision Coverage
Provides protection against collision or rollover damages, no matter who caused the accident.
Medical Expense Coverage
Gives peace of mind knowing your medical care is covered after an accident, no matter who’s at fault.
Bodily Injury Liability
Covers medical expenses and any damages awarded in a lawsuit if you injure someone else in a car accident.
Property Damage Liability
Provides coverage if you are responsible for an accident and damage someone’s property.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists
Covers vehicle loss, damages, medical costs, lost wages and pain and suffering if you are injured in an accident and the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient liability limits.
How Much Does Full Coverage Car Insurance Cost?
The final cost of your insurance policy depends on a lot of factors, like the age and condition of your car, the deductibles and coverages you choose, and even where you live. Because full coverage policies include more protections and peace of mind, that means they cost a bit more. However that does not mean that comprehensive car insurance can’t be affordable.
Talk to an insurance agent to explore all of your coverage options, build the right policy for you and find all the discounts available to help you save.
Do I Need Full Coverage On My Car?
In most states, you’ll need full coverage on a financed car. However, if you own your car outright then there are some coverages that are optional depending on which state you’re in. Regardless of whether or not you owe on your vehicle, it’s worth exploring insurance options beyond basic liability coverage to ensure you’re fully protected and have that peace of mind if you ever get into an accident.