What Is Comprehensive Car Insurance Coverage?

Comprehensive auto insurance covers damage to a driver's vehicle not related to an accident. A driver should understand the purpose of comprehensive insurance and when it is necessary for him to purchase it.

Purpose

Types of items covered include damage due to fire, explosion, missiles, vandalism or falling objects. A policyholder would also have coverage for weather incidents like hail, a flood or a windstorm.

Deductible

Most often, a comprehensive policy will have a deductible. When damage occurs, the policyholder pays a deductible and the insurance company pays the remainder of the cost for the repairs. A driver can choose a higher deductible to lower the cost of his premiums.

Glass Coverage

Comprehensive coverage pays to have a windshield repaired if it has a crack or is shattered. Depending on the insurance company, a driver may not need to pay a deductible for a windshield repair.

Requirements

Most lenders require a driver with a loan or lease to carry comprehensive coverage. If a driver has an older car with little value, it may not be advantageous to pay the premiums for comprehensive coverage.

References

• Insurance Information Institute: Basic Auto Policy Coverage
• Insure.com: Minimum Levels of Car Insurance You are Required to Buy
• Insure.com: Car Insurance Basics