Comprehensive insurance is coverage that compensates for damage done to a vehicle other than by collision. The auto comprehensive insurance coverage pays to replace or repair the vehicle if it is stolen or damaged in some event other than a collision.
Comprehensive coverage is also known as other than collision coverage. Coverages that may be covered under comprehensive auto insurance may include car theft, glass damage, severe weather conditions such as hurricanes or hail, and fire. Comprehensive coverage also covers civil disturbances such as riots, windshields, rodent damage, and floods.
Comprehensive Insurance vs. Collision Insurance
If you purchase a new car, comprehensive insurance will be beneficial for you. In many cases, auto lenders require it until the car is fully paid off. Comprehensive insurance will protect you from any major or minor damage caused due to events beyond your control.
Location can also be a fundamental factor in determining which coverage will be beneficial. If you live in a rural area and there is a possibility of animal collisions or bad weather conditions, comprehensive insurance might be the ideal choice. It will also be a great option if you live in a high-crime city where thefts are more common.
Collision insurance can act as a protective shield in cases of vehicle rollover, collision with an object, or collision with another vehicle. However, it will not assist when you hit an animal or suffer from theft or vandalism.
When you lease or finance your car, collision coverage is an excellent option when you suffer a crash. It will pay for damage to your car and other damages done due to road conditions like potholes.
Comprehensive coverage and collision coverage both include deductibles. The coverage limit will be the actual cash value for both policies. Comprehensive is often required when leasing or financing a vehicle and optional coverage otherwise. Collision coverage is also often required when leasing or financing a vehicle, and optional otherwise.
What are the pros and cons of a Comprehensive insurance claim?
Comprehensive auto insurance safeguards you from theft and other natural calamities. You do not have to pay any out-of-pocket expenses when a thief steals your car or any tree falls on your car or some other misfortune intrudes in your life.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Protection from things that are beyond your control | Does not cover damage done due to collision |
| Provides insurance from unforeseen events such as break-ins or hail storms. | May not provide coverage for older cars having higher mileage. |
| In high-crime areas, the comprehensive policy covers theft-related events | Does not cover damage from road conditions like pot holes. |
Comprehensive cover will pay for car repair if the damage occurred due to a loss covered in the policy. However, a deductible will still be subtracted from the amount paid.
An auto insurance deductible is an amount deducted from the insurance claim settlement. For example: if you have a claim for improper weather conditions that costs $3000 to repair and you have a deductible of $300, you should receive $2,700 as the final payment.
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You may be in a dilemma after suffering auto damage and your options for pursuing insurance compensation. Speak with an experienced Fort Myers auto accident lawyer to explore different legal options and how you can pursue your insurance coverage.