The Essential Guide to Car Insurance

The Essential Guide To Car Insurance

Car insurance is like any other type of insurance policy in that it’s meant to protect you from significant financial hardship. However, because the risk of a car accident is ever-present, insurers quickly make new laws and offer different deals to help lower rates. With this guide, you can make an educated decision on how much auto insurance you need.

What Is Covered Under a Standard Auto Policy?

People tend to pay for car insurance without giving it much thought. In the case of an accident or theft, they know that their insurer will be there to cover the cost of repairs and replace any lost property. While this is true, there are a lot of additional factors that may complicate coverage.

The following are some of the most common parts of a standard auto policy:

• Property Damage Liability – If you cause an accident that damages any other vehicle or person’s personal property (e.g., house windows), you’ll be held liable for all resulting costs up to your policy’s limit.
• Collision – If you cause an accident without hitting another vehicle, your coverage will pay for damage to the car you were driving.
• Get-Out-of-Jail – If you’re charged with a moving violation or any criminal offense, your insurer must help you get out of jail.
• Personal Injury Protection (P.I.P.) – Auto insurance will pay up to $50,000 for medical expenses that may arise from an accident while on the road. Underinsured/Uninsured Motorist
• Coverage (UIM) – This coverage can be purchased in addition to P.I.P. and works by paying out 500% of the covered amount if the at-fault driver is underinsured or uninsured.

The Basic Types of Car Insurance

In today’s world, where the increase in road networks and the declining cost of insurance motivate more people to purchase their cars, it is imperative to understand the different forms of auto insurance. Below are some of the most common types of insurance policies:

Hazard/Traffic – This is considered an all-inclusive policy that covers damage caused by other vehicles and accidents with pedestrians and animals. It also protects you from damage caused by weather and falling objects like light fixtures or trees.

Collision/Comprehensive – A common type of auto insurance, this policy covers moderate to severe damage to your car’s physical structure but not its accessories. It also covers theft and vandalism.

Bodily Injury – This is a broad coverage that helps if you are the one involved in an accident. It includes medical expenses and lost income due to road rash or disfigurement. The amount you’re paid for these injuries may vary depending on the type of accident.

Personal Injury Protection (P.I.P.) is a mandatory addition to all standard policies if you have a personal injury claim.

Final Takeaway

Use this guide and you’ll be able to make a more educated decision on your car insurance. You may choose to go with the minimum amount of coverage required by the state, or you might decide that you need additional coverage for the protection it offers.

Either way, take the time to understand what it is you’re buying and why; that way when you purchase car insurance, you’ll be doing so because it’s a financially responsible choice for your needs.