The Benefits of Collision & Comp Auto Insurance Coverage
Types of Auto Insurance Coverage
Excluding basic liability coverage the most carried types of car insurance coverage are Comprehensive and Collision coverage. In this article we will explain what is included in each type of coverage and what there differences are. So, when it’s time to get free insurance quotes you’ll be ready.
Collision Coverage
Collision coverage pays for physical damage to your car as the result of your auto colliding with an object, such as a tree or another car. This is relatively expensive coverage. Remember, this coverage is optional and not required by law. However, collision insurance might be required by your lending institution or lessor.
If you have an older vehicle worth less than $2,000, there is little reason for you to purchase collision coverage, because you are likely to pay more money in premium than you would ever receive as a result of a claim. Auto insurance policies only require the company to cover your financial expenses, not to replace your vehicle. In the case of an accident involving an older car, the cost of repairing the car can quickly exceed the worth of the car. In that case, an insurer will “total” the car and pay you what the car was worth rather than fixing it. In severe cases, the worth of the car might not exceed the premiums paid for the coverage.
Comprehensive (Other than Collision) Coverage
Comprehensive coverage pays for damage to your auto from almost all other causes, including fire, severe weather, vandalism, floods, theft and hitting animals. Comprehensive coverage also will cover broken glass, such as windshield damage. Comprehensive coverage is less expensive than collision coverage and many consumers choose to carry it. However, remember it is your choice; you are not required by law to carry comprehensive coverage.
An important thing to consider when purchasing collision and comprehensive coverage is your deductible. Many companies offer zero dollar to $2500 deductibles. The deductible is the amount of money you will pay if you file a claim before the insurance company pays there share. For example, if you have a $500 comprehensive deductible and file a claim for $1300, you pay $500 and the insurance company will pay the remaining $800.
In essence, the deductible lowers your premium because your are taking part of the financial burden off of the insurance company unless you choose a zero dollar deductible also known as a full deductible. The reason insurance companies offer deductibles is because it decreases the chance of you filing a small claim, which are expensive for the insurance company to handle.
If you buy a new car and take out a loan the lending company will most likely require you to have collision and comprehensive coverage as part of your car insurance. The reason for this is because your vehicle is collateral for the money you borrowed and if they need to repossess your vehicle they need to make sure it will be worth what you borrowed.
If you are required or choose to purchase collision and comprehensive coverage, the easiest way to get cheap car insurance is to request the highest deductible you can afford. Remember, you will be required to pay that deductible amount if you file a claim that is your fault before the insurance company will pay for the rest of the damages.