Are you shopping for auto insurance Fayetteville AR? Understanding the various types of coverage is essential before you begin comparing policies. Since you want to ensure you are comparing apples to apples, you’ll need to know the basics of auto insurance coverage. One of the most critical questions clients ask is regarding comprehensive coverage. Let’s discuss the benefits of comprehensive coverage so you can decide if it’s the right option for your insurance policy.
What Is Comprehensive Coverage?
Comprehensive coverage is an optional coverage that offers additional protection if non-collision events impact your vehicle. Theft, vandalism, glass and windshield damage, inclement weather, fire, and other non-collision events outside your control are not typically covered by your traditional auto insurance policy. Adding comprehensive coverage to your existing policy can help protect your vehicle if damage occurs from natural events or other accidents.
Is Comprehensive Coverage Required?
You may be required to carry comprehensive auto insurance Fayetteville AR if you are leasing or financing your vehicle. Although comprehensive coverage is not required by law in the United States, specific lenders may require this additional coverage in some cases. If comprehensive coverage isn’t needed, weigh your options to decide whether it’s worth your investment. Your insurance agent can help you decide.
How Does Comprehensive Differ from Collision Insurance?
Although comprehensive and collision insurance both insure your car against damage, the two cover different events. Comprehensive insurance pays for vehicle damage such as car theft, hitting an animal, vandalism, broken glass, and weather-related accidents.
Collision coverage provides financial coverage for vehicle damage from hitting another car or object. While comprehensive coverage protects you from damage outside your control, collision covers you for damage regardless of who is at fault.
Here’s a good comparison:
Suppose you are driving down the road and you hit a deer. Comprehensive coverage is applied here. Now, if you swerve to miss the deer and hit another vehicle or a tree, collision coverage applies. Check out our upcoming post, What Does Renters Insurance Cover, for more information.
What Type of Damage Isn’t Covered by Comprehensive Coverage?
Of course, comprehensive coverage doesn’t kick in if you’ve hit another vehicle or object. Additionally, it won’t cover vehicle wear and tear, including:
- Belt and hose damage
- Brakes
- Worn or damaged tires
- Windshield wipers
- Other maintenance
Is Comprehensive Coverage Worth It?
Here are some reasons why comprehensive coverage is worth the investment:
- Financial coverage kicks in no matter who is at fault
- Coverage pays for repairs over your deductible, so you won’t need to spend significant repair expenses out of pocket
- Most lienholders require coverage
Before adding comprehensive coverage to your policy, talk to your insurance agent. They’ll discuss the right coverage for your specific needs. You’ll choose a deductible that you’ll need to pay before your insurance company jumps in to cover the additional cost of repairs. Typically, the higher your deductible, the lower your monthly insurance costs will be.
Contact Rocky Steele Insurance Company for Your Auto Insurance Fayetteville AR Comprehensive Coverage
We’re dedicated to protecting you at Rocky Steele Insurance Company. If you are shopping for an insurance policy, we’re here to help. Contact one of our friendly insurance agents today to discuss your needs and find the right coverage for your vehicle.
