Liability Coverage vs. Comprehensive Coverage

Car insurance consists of multiple types of coverage, the most important being liability coverage. Liability coverage takes care of any damage you are responsible for in a car accident. There are two components to liability coverage: (1) bodily injury and (2) property damage. Most states, including Ohio, require drivers to carry liability coverage. Bodily injury coverage pays for other peoples’ injuries that you are responsible for. Property damage coverages pays for other peoples’ property damage that you are responsible for. Remember, liability coverage only pays for things you are responsible or - it does not pay for any damage to you or your property. You should purchase as much liability coverage as you can afford. If you are responsible for a car accident and only have the minimum coverage, you will be personally on the hook for whatever the insurance doesn’t cover.

Comprehensive and collision is commonly referred to as full coverage. Together, they cover damages to your personal car - regardless of who was at fault. In addition to a car accident, they also cover damage to your car as a result of theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. When shopping for comprehensive and collision coverage, you are not required to pick a limit. Rather, comprehensive and collision will cover up to your car’s value. Comprehensive and collision are not legally required; however, if you finance your car, the lender will mostly likely require that you purchase comprehensive and collision coverage. Even if you own your car outright, it’s still a very good idea to have comprehensive and collision coverage.

It’s a good idea to check your insurance coverage to make sure you are protected in the event you are involved in a car accident. And if you are injured in a car accident, contact our experienced personal injury team to help you navigate your car accident claim.