What is comprehensive coverage?
When we think of car accidents, we usually think of collisions with other cars. In reality, there are several random, yet just as severe, ways in which your car can sustain damage. Comprehensive auto insurance coverage is your way of making sure you're covered should your car be attacked by a vengeful rock, or an angry tornado.
In your auto insurance policy, comprehensive coverage helps pay for damage resulting from falling objects, fire, certain natural disasters (check your individual state's policies for details), and vandalism.
Comprehensive coverage also generally covers theft. Unfortunately, in many places theft isn't such a random occurrence. If you live in a metropolitan area, or an area that is prone to crime, you may want to consider this when you are purchasing your comprehensive coverage.
When you buy comprehensive coverage, you'll be asked to choose a deductible. If you choose a deductible of $1,000, you'll be required to pay up to $1,000 out of your own pocket if your car needs to be repaired or replaced. However, choosing a higher deductible helps decrease your auto insurance premium.
In setting your deductible, think about which you'd prefer — a low insurance premium accompanied by a higher out-of-pocket amount in the event of a loss, or a higher premium to ensure lower out-of-pocket expenses toward a loss. On the Esurance site, it's easy to explore the effect of changing your deductible by getting a quote, then using our "customize coverage" feature.
Don't fall prey to random disasters; make sure you have sufficient auto insurance coverage. You'll be glad you took our advice should that tornado arrive!
This page is intended to provide you with general information about car insurance, and to help you understand the various kinds of coverage. It does not describe or refer to any specific policy or coverage. For information about your particular coverages, we encourage you to read your policy contract and consult your insurance representative with any questions.