Understanding Comprehensive and Collision Insurance  

Comprehensive and collision coverages play different roles in insuring your vehicle, and understanding how coverage works can help you make informed decisions about your policy.

What Collision Insurance Covers

Collision insurance focuses on damage to your vehicle caused by accidents. For example, if you hit another car, collide with a guardrail or back into a pole, this part of your policy may assist with repair or replacement costs, regardless of fault. It can be especially useful for newer or high-value vehicles with higher repair costs.

Even single-car accidents (such as sliding into a ditch or hitting a tree) are generally handled under collision coverage.

What Comprehensive Insurance Covers

Comprehensive coverage can cover damage caused by events other than a crash. This includes theft, vandalism, fire, hail, falling objects and collisions with animals. It’s the part of your policy that insures against unpredictable, often unavoidable losses.

For example, comprehensive insurance may provide coverage if a tree branch falls on your parked car or someone breaks into your vehicle.

Why Many Drivers Carry Both

If you lease or finance your car, your lender usually requires both coverages. But even if you own your vehicle outright, they can be worth considering, depending on your car’s value and financial situation.

Choosing your deductible and coverage limits depends on your comfort level with risk and your vehicle’s current value. Some drivers with older vehicles may decide to drop one or both, while others keep them.

Learn More

Xpress Insurance can help you understand how comprehensive and collision coverage work and whether they make sense for your current vehicle. Contact our office today to review your policy and explore coverage options.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.