Comprehensive coverage is an optional form of car insurance that provides protection against damage caused by unexpected events, such as theft, fire, and adverse weather conditions. It is not legally required in any state, but lenders often require it if you rent or finance your vehicle. Comprehensive coverage works in conjunction with other coverages to compensate you for damage caused by factors beyond your control. Designed to work with collision insurance, comprehensive car insurance allows you to make claims through your insurer to cover the costs of repairs or even offers a settlement if repair estimates exceed the value of the vehicle itself.
It is mandatory in the provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan, as is collision coverage. Comprehensive coverage is defined as coverage for damage not related to a collision in your vehicle, which is why it is sometimes referred to as coverage other than collision coverage. It pays the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle up to its real value in cash if it is damaged by other unexpected situations, such as the fall or flight of objects, acts of vandalism, fire, theft or attempted theft, a natural disaster, a riot, or civil disobedience. Coverage and other features vary between insurers, vary by state, and are not available in all states. If you prefer to be covered against any unforeseen event, comprehensive insurance can help you have peace of mind behind the wheel.
However, it is important to choose a deductible that you can pay out of pocket in the event of an unforeseen event, since you'll have to pay the deductible to cover a claim. If the cash value of your vehicle is relatively low and you have a higher deductible, for example, comprehensive coverage may not be worth it. Comprehensive coverage isn't required by law in any state, but lenders often require it if you rent or finance your vehicle. It's also important to remember that comprehensive insurance only applies to the vehicle listed in the policy, not to someone else's. While both protect your vehicle, collision coverage exists if you're involved in a collision, while comprehensive coverage is for non-collision events that are beyond your control.
