Car insurance coverage types, explained

A car insurance policy is a bundle of separate coverages. Knowing what each one does is the first step to knowing whether you have the right protection, and to comparing quotes fairly.

Coverages that protect other people

• Bodily injury liability: pays for injuries you cause to others, up to your limit
• Property damage liability: pays for damage you cause to other people's cars and property

Coverages that protect you and your car

• Collision: repairs to your car after a crash, regardless of fault, minus your deductible
• Comprehensive: theft, vandalism, hail, flood, fire, falling objects and animal strikes, minus your deductible
• Uninsured and underinsured motorist: covers you when the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough
• Personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments: medical costs for you and your passengers; required in some states

Optional extras

• Rental reimbursement while your car is being repaired after a covered claim
• Roadside assistance
• Gap coverage: the difference between what you owe on a loan or lease and the car's value if it's totaled
• New car replacement or original equipment parts, from some insurers

Coverage names, requirements and options vary by state and insurer. Your policy documents are what count. Trusted Auto Insurers is not an insurer, agent or broker and takes no commissions.