Comprehensive Car Insurance
Comprehensive car insurance covers damage to your vehicle caused by non-collision events — things like theft, vandalism, severe weather, fire, falling objects, and more. It’s an essential part of a full coverage policy, offering protection against unexpected risks that aren’t related to a crash.
What Does Comprehensive Insurance Cover?
This coverage protects you from a wide range of events, including:
- Theft or attempted theft
- Vandalism
- Hail, wind, floods, hurricanes, and other weather-related damage
- Fire and explosions
- Falling objects (like trees or debris)
- Damage from animals (e.g., deer collisions)
- Glass breakage (windshield damage)
What’s Not Covered?
Comprehensive insurance does not cover collision-related damage. For example, if you crash into another car or object, you’ll need collision coverage. It also doesn’t pay for:
- Your medical bills (covered by PIP or MedPay)
- Damage to other people’s vehicles (covered by liability)
- Normal wear and tear or mechanical failure
Is Comprehensive Coverage Required?
Like collision, comprehensive insurance isn’t required by state law. However, if you’re financing or leasing your car, your lender will likely require it. If you own your vehicle outright, it’s optional — but still valuable depending on your car’s worth and risk exposure.
How It Works
When a covered event occurs, your insurer pays for the damage, minus your deductible. For example, if your deductible is $500 and hail causes $2,000 in damage, your insurance pays $1,500. Typical deductibles range from $250 to $1,000.
Who Needs Comprehensive Coverage?
It’s highly recommended for drivers who:
- Own or lease a newer or high-value vehicle
- Live in areas prone to storms, flooding, wildfires, or theft
- Park outdoors regularly or drive frequently
Comprehensive vs. Collision Insurance
These coverages work hand in hand. While collision insurance covers damage from accidents, comprehensive protects against almost everything else. Together, they form the backbone of a full coverage auto policy.
Is It Worth It?
If your car is worth more than a few thousand dollars or would be expensive to replace, comprehensive coverage can be a smart investment. The cost is typically lower than collision insurance and adds significant protection.
Protect Your Vehicle from the Unexpected
Disasters happen — whether it’s a cracked windshield or a stolen car. Comprehensive coverage ensures you’re not left with the bill. Add it to your policy and drive with greater peace of mind.