Collision coverage gives you peace of mind knowing that your insurance company will do everything it can to negotiate an out-of-court settlement in your favor – even in accidents when it is not clear who is at fault. Insurance companies are obligated to protect their customers, and it is their duty to negotiate with the other party on your behalf to get you the best possible settlement. Having collision insurance also means that your car can get repairs as soon as your insurance company approves them. If you do not have comprehensive and collision insurance, your insurance company will not negotiate on your behalf, and you will not be able to get your car repaired until the other party’s insurance company approves it. Even if the other party is at fault, people without collision coverage are forced to negotiate directly with the other insurance company. This is why we tell all of our customers that collision insurance is a must.
The minimum liability amount for compulsory insurance varies by state. In California the amount is $15,000 for injury/death to one person, $30,000 for injury/death to two or more people, and $5,000 for damage to property.
Covers lost salary or medical expenses due to injury or death in an accident for which you are responsible. Note that this coverage is not sufficient in cases of severe injury or death to the other party.
Covers property or belongings damaged in an auto accident.
Covers medical expenses for drivers or fellow passengers injured in an auto accident. This insurance covers you whether you are driving your own car or someone else’s vehicle.
Covers expenses when the person responsible for the accident is:
Covers damages in single-car accidents (including those due to theft, fire, falling objects, flying rocks, lightening, earthquakes, and flooding).
Covers repair costs in single-car accidents. Getting comprehensive and collision coverage can nearly double your insurance costs, but we strongly recommend buying this additional coverage if you can afford it.
Covers towing to a service workshop if your car will not run.
Covers rental car expenses during repairs if your car is damaged in an accident.
The following factors can affect your monthly insurance payments: