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What is covered by comprehensive car insurance?
Car insurance is a necessity for every driver on the road. It provides financial protection in case of accidents, theft, or damage to your vehicle. One of the coverage options available is comprehensive physical damage coverage. But what exactly does it cover? In this blog post, we will explore the details of comprehensive physical damage coverage and help you understand its benefits.
Comprehensive physical damage coverage, often referred to as comprehensive coverage, is an optional coverage that protects your vehicle against non-collision damages. It covers a wide range of perils that can cause damage to your car, such as theft, vandalism, fire, falling objects, natural disasters, and more. Unlike collision coverage, which only covers damages resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object, comprehensive coverage provides protection against a broader range of risks.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the specific perils covered by Comprehensive Car Insurance for physical damage:
1. Theft: If your car is stolen, comprehensive coverage will reimburse you for the value of your vehicle, up to its actual cash value. This can be a significant relief, especially if you have a high-value or expensive car.
2. Vandalism: If your car is intentionally damaged by someone, comprehensive coverage will cover the cost of repairs. This can include acts of vandalism like keying, graffiti, or broken windows.
3. Fire: If your car is damaged or destroyed by fire, comprehensive coverage will pay for the repairs or replacement of your vehicle. This can be particularly important if you live in an area prone to wildfires or if your car catches fire due to a mechanical failure.
4. Natural disasters: Comprehensive coverage also protects your vehicle against damages caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, or hailstorms. These events can cause significant damage to your car, and having comprehensive coverage ensures that you are financially protected.
5. Falling objects: If a tree branch, debris, or any other object falls on your car and causes damage, comprehensive coverage will cover the cost of repairs or replacement.
6. Animal collisions: If you hit an animal while driving, comprehensive coverage will cover the damages to your vehicle. This can include collisions with deer, dogs, cats, or any other animal.
7. Glass damage: Comprehensive coverage often includes coverage for glass damage, such as cracked windshields or broken windows. Some insurance companies may offer separate glass coverage, so it’s important to check your policy details.
It’s important to note that comprehensive coverage does not cover damages resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object. For that, you would need collision coverage. However, comprehensive coverage can be combined with collision coverage to provide more comprehensive protection for your vehicle.
Comprehensive physical damage coverage is not mandatory in most states, but it is highly recommended, especially if you have a newer or more valuable vehicle. Without comprehensive coverage, you would be responsible for paying for repairs or replacement out of pocket in case of non-collision damages.
Comprehensive Car Insurance Deductible
When considering comprehensive coverage, it’s important to understand the deductible associated with the coverage. A deductible is the amount you are responsible for paying before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and your car sustains $2,000 worth of damages, you would be responsible for paying the first $500, and your insurance would cover the remaining $1,500.
The cost of comprehensive coverage can vary depending on several factors, including the make and model of your vehicle, your location, your driving history, and the deductible you choose. It’s always a good idea to shop around and compare quotes from different insurance companies to find the best coverage at the most affordable price.
In conclusion, comprehensive physical damage coverage provides valuable protection for your vehicle against non-collision damages. It covers a wide range of perils, including theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, falling objects, animal collisions, and glass damage. While not mandatory, comprehensive coverage is highly recommended, especially for newer or more valuable vehicles. Understanding the deductible and shopping around for the best coverage and price are essential steps in securing comprehensive coverage for your car. With comprehensive coverage, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are financially protected against unexpected damages to your vehicle.
Shield Insurance Agency represents over 40 insurance companies. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK and an agent will be in touch soon.
