Most car insurance revolves around collisions. Everything from crashes to dings in the parking lot, most car damage (and therefore coverage) revolves around damage caused by cars to cars. This is why collision insurance is the largest form of car insurance and is the primary type of coverage and liability when it comes to risks. However, it’s not the only one. From damage to your car from nature to someone taking a key to your finish, learn how comprehensive car insurance protects your car from the unexpected.
What Does Comprehensive Car Insurance Cover?
Comprehensive car insurance primarily revolves around covering risks and damage that doesn’t involve other insured entities – primarily cars as well as property. In these circumstances, where your primary car insurance policy (or that of other cars or property) stops, comprehensive insurance steps into providing coverage. This policy addition typically covers:
- Fire and Water Damage: From wildfires to winter water damage, make sure your car is covered, even when you’re not there.
- Theft and Vandalism: From the damage due to break-ins to vandalism – all the way up to if your car is unfortunate enough to get caught up in a riot.
- Debris and Falling Objects: From tree limbs to icicles, regardless of if you’re driving or parked, this coverage can be a lifesaver if you park outside.
- Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, tornados, and the like can do all of the above and more, make sure you’re covered if such storms are common in your area.
- Animal Collisions and Damage: From deer crossings to bird strikes, the results can be costly as well as tragic. Make sure you’ve got coverage, especially in more rural areas.
Should You Add Comprehensive Insurance?
Like with all non-mandated insurance, the question of adding insurance to your policy often falls to three factors: coverage, risks, and costs. As listed above, the coverage covers pretty much everything that can happen to a car outside of collisions (as well as including animal collisions).
Where Do You Drive and Park?
Risks depend on your location and typical driving habits. For example, rural driving has a higher risk of animal collisions or falling tree limbs, while urban living has a higher chance of theft and vandalism.
Natural Disasters and Weather
If you’re living in a place prone to heavy storms and natural disasters, comprehensive insurance might make sense. Hurricanes and tornados can lead to flooding or falling debris, while brutal winters and snowstorms can lead to water damage, as well as falling snow and ice.
Costs to Adding Comprehensive Insurance
Comprehensive insurance can be added to existing car insurance policies for a lower cost, similar to umbrella insurance. While it depends on your carrier, adding this policy is usually relatively inexpensive.
Have questions about if comprehensive car insurance is right for you? The TJ Woods Insurance Agency is here to help with experts who can help you get the insurance you need to not only be covered but to thrive. Contact us today for your free quotes and talk to a specialist about your needs.
