Different Types of Coverages by Auto Insurance

For the most part, American auto insurance companies offer six different types of auto insurance coverage, and which type you pick will determine how much responsibility you have during and after an accident. They’re not necessarily priced separately, so before purchasing auto insurance, make sure that you know exactly what kind you’re getting and what it will cover in case of an accident. Your vehicle accident and personal injury coverage in Carlsbad, CA can make the difference between going into debt or having your accident handled with minimal financial and legal disruptions.

Here’s an overview of the different kinds of auto insurance coverage:

  • Comprehensive coverage: Comprehensive coverage is exactly what it sounds like: theft, damage, collision, vandalism, acts of God and other issues. If your windshield is cracked or shattered, this type of policy usually covers repair or replacement.
  • Collision: Collision insurance covers your car when it collides with anything else, including other cars and objects. This is usually sold in addition to other coverage, and will pay you back for repairing your car minus the deductible. Depending on who is at fault for your accident, the insurance company may seek damages from the other party or parties.
  • Property damage liability: If someone else drives your car and causes property damage to another (car, home, fence, public property and more), property damage liability will cover this, minus any applicable deductible.
  • Bodily injury liability: Bodily injury coverage applies when the policyholder or another covered individual causes bodily harm to another person while driving the car. If the driver is not covered under this policy, you may still be liable. This is recommended, because if you’re part of a serious accident and are found to be at fault, you will be liable for medical bills.
  • Medical payments: This type of coverage is designed to protect you if you or a passenger suffer injuries while you’re driving. It should cover your medical bills as well as lost wages and other incidental expenses stemming from the accident, but make sure you read the fine print to ensure you know exactly what’s covered and what isn’t.
  • Uninsured motorist: Finally, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage is typically designed for those instances where you let someone borrow your car. If they don’t have enough insurance to pay for your loss, the insurance will cover it—it also works if you’re hit by an uninsured motorist during a hit-and-run or other vehicle collision, even if you’re a pedestrian.

What kind of insurance you choose will depend on your specific needs as a driver, as well as who regularly drives your vehicle and in what conditions. As a general rule, the more coverage, the better—you never know when you might get into an accident, even if it’s not your fault. If you have questions about your personal injury auto accident liability in Carlsbad, CA, consult with an attorney.

The team at Gregory S. Hood, Attorney at Law, P.C. is ready to assist you with all your insurance and auto accident needs—call us today for a consultation.

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