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How do I Choose the Best Comprehensive Auto Insurance?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

People in the market for comprehensive auto insurance should consider issues like the size of deductibles, package deals for insurance products, and the specifics of the coverage to decide on the best plan for their needs. This type of coverage provides assistance for damage caused by events other than accidents. Drivers who want comprehensive insurance usually also purchase collision coverage to address accidents, and must also carry liability coverage to satisfy legal requirements for car insurance.

Some examples of situations comprehensive auto insurance can cover include tree limbs falling on cars, vandalism, and damage caused by rocks and gravel thrown up from the road. In all cases, the situation leading to damage must not be an auto accident. If someone runs into a tree or collides with another car, that is not covered by comprehensive insurance. Many insurance companies sell comprehensive and collision together, and offer a discount for the package.

When shopping for comprehensive coverage, drivers should consider premium costs and deductibiles.
When shopping for comprehensive coverage, drivers should consider premium costs and deductibiles.

The size of the deductible is an important consideration. Often, drivers opt for a high deductible because they think it will save them money, but they have trouble meeting the deductible when they need to make a claim. The insurance agent can provide quotes for insurance with different deductibles and if it only adds a small amount onto the bill, it is usually worth purchasing low deductible comprehensive auto insurance. Drivers may also want to ask about specific riders like glass coverage, providing replacement of all the glass in the car with a low or nonexistent deductible.

Comprehensive insurance does not cover collisions.
Comprehensive insurance does not cover collisions.

Policy exclusions are also important. Car insurance companies usually base quotes on the driver's experience and the location where the driver usually parks. If a driver lives in a high-risk area, the policy might have exclusions; someone parking in San Francisco, for example, might have trouble getting coverage for earthquake damage. People may want to ask about specific concerns to see if the insurance policy includes them, and can shop around for different levels of coverage to meet their needs.

Comprehensive coverage may be sold separately or as part of a package with collision coverage.
Comprehensive coverage may be sold separately or as part of a package with collision coverage.

Overall premium prices can vary between insurers. When shopping for comprehensive auto insurance, drivers may want to ask about things like good driver discounts or discounts for specific safety features, to see if it is possible to lower the premium. Insurance companies can also offer package deals like auto, home, and life insurance at a lower price, especially if a client is switching from another provider; the insurer may offer a special rate in an attempt to win customer loyalty. People may also want to look into comprehensive auto insurance offered through a trade organization, as members of such groups often have access to low-cost insurance plans and other benefits.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

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    • When shopping for comprehensive coverage, drivers should consider premium costs and deductibiles.
      By: naka
      When shopping for comprehensive coverage, drivers should consider premium costs and deductibiles.
    • Comprehensive insurance does not cover collisions.
      By: CandyBox Images
      Comprehensive insurance does not cover collisions.
    • Comprehensive coverage may be sold separately or as part of a package with collision coverage.
      By: Deyan Georgiev
      Comprehensive coverage may be sold separately or as part of a package with collision coverage.