What Are Combined Single Limits on Auto Insurance?

When you look at your car insurance declarations page, you may see some of your coverage limits expressed as a combined single limit (CSL). Understanding CSL will help you know how much coverage your policy provides.

Traditional auto policies

Traditional policies offer "split limits" for liability. There is a "per person" limit and a "per accident" limit for bodily injury liability, then a separate "per accident" limit for property damage liability.

Combined single limit

In contrast to traditional "split limit" coverage, CSL coverage only provides one limit for liability. It is typically equal to the "per accident" bodily injury limit plus the "per accident" property damage limit of equivalent split limits policies.

Coverage basis

CSL is provided on a "per accident" basis with no additional "per person" limitation.

Flexibility

CSL adds flexibility because the entire limit can be used for medical expenses or car repairs if necessary -- instead of imposing separate limits for each type of damage.

Better coverage

Under CSL, a claimant can recover the entire liability limit rather than being subjected to a "per person" restriction.

References

• CarInsurance.com: How Does Split Limit Differ From Combined Single Limit Coverage?