The Benefits of Collision & Comp Auto Insurance Coverage
Jul 1, 2009 More Saving
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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 your vehicle is older and worth less than $2000, you should consider not opting for this coverage since you are more likely to spend more on your premium than you would get if your filed a collision claim. The cost of repairs can easily exceed the total worth of your vehicle and the insurance company will pay you what it is worth rather than fixing it minus your deductible.
Comprehensive (Other than Collision) Coverage
It can also be known as other than collision coverage and it pays for almost all other damages to your vehicle. Coverages include vandalism, theft, hitting of animals, fire, severe weather and floods. It will also cover damage to your windshield or windows. It doesn’t cost as much as collision coverage and is also optional and not required by law, although it may also be required by your financing or leasing company.
When considering collision and comprehensive coverage, you should consider your deductible. A deductible is an amount of money you agree to pay as part of a claim before the insurer is committed to pay the rest of the claim. For example, if you carried collision coverage with a $200 deductible and you had a $500 loss, you would have to pay $200 and the insurance company would have to pay the remaining $300.
Basically, deductibles reduce your premiums because you agree to deduct a set amount from the claim your insurer otherwise would have to pay. Insurance companies offer deductibles because they reduce the number of small claims, which are costly for them 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.
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