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Search by Quote ID → Search by Date of BirthWhat is Comprehensive Car Insurance?
Comprehensive insurance is coverage that protects you in the event your vehicle is damaged due to something other than a car collision, such as theft, vandalism, or flooding.
Comprehensive coverage is usually sold with a deductible amount (the out-of-pocket expense an insured agrees to pay before any payment from the insurance company kicks in). Deductibles of $250, $500, or $1,000 are fairly common. As a general rule of thumb, the higher the deductible, the lower the corresponding coverage premium.
What does comprehensive insurance cover?
Some common events comprehensive insurance protects your vehicle from include:
- Theft
- Falling objects such as tree branches
- Vandalism
- Hailstorms
- Floods
- Fire
- Animal damage, such as hitting a deer
- Windshield damage1
Severe weather events and natural disasters can strike unexpectedly. Visit Mercury’s Catastrophe Center for preparedness tips and action plans to help protect your vehicle and minimize risks.
Do I need comprehensive insurance coverage?
If you’re leasing or financing a vehicle, your lender will likely require you to purchase comprehensive car insurance coverage. If you own your vehicle outright, comprehensive insurance is optional coverage on your car insurance policy. In that case, consider the value of your vehicle. If it were damaged or stolen, are you able to pay that amount out-of-pocket to repair or replace your vehicle? If not, then comprehensive insurance may be a good investment.
Learn more about auto insurance coverage options, and talk to your local insurance agent to determine if comprehensive car insurance is right for you.
1In some states, comprehensive coverage includes glass replacement with no deductible. This varies by state, so make sure to ask about the specifics when you purchase your policy.
Comprehensive vs. Collision Coverage
Understanding the difference between comprehensive and collision insurance can help you decide what coverage you need. While both protect your vehicle, they cover different types of damage.
|
Feature |
Comprehensive Insurance |
Collision Insurance |
|
What It Covers |
Damage to your vehicle caused by non-collision events, such as:
|
Damage to your car caused by a:
|
|
What’s Not Covered |
|
|
|
Deductible |
You choose a deductible, typically $250, $500, or $1,000. |
You choose a deductible, typically $250, $500, or $1,000. |
|
Legal Requirement |
It’s not legally required. However, it’s typically required if you have a lease or loan. |
It’s not legally required. However, it’s typically required if you have a lease or loan. |
|
Coverage Limit |
Usually covers up to the actual cash value (ACV) of the vehicle at the time of the loss. |
Usually covers up to the actual cash value (ACV) of the vehicle at the time of the loss. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a comprehensive deductible?
A comprehensive deductible is the amount you agree to pay out-of-pocket before your insurance covers a claim for non-collision damage like theft, fire, or vandalism.
What is the definition of “comprehensive” in insurance?
In insurance, “comprehensive” refers to coverage that protects against non-collision-related damage to your vehicle. This includes events like theft, natural disasters, vandalism, and falling objects.
What is comprehensive accident protection?
Comprehensive accident protection covers damage to your car from unexpected, non-collision incidents such as fire, hail, falling objects, vandalism, and animal collisions.
Is comprehensive insurance full coverage?
No, comprehensive insurance is not full coverage. Full coverage typically includes comprehensive, collision, and liability insurance combined.
Does comprehensive insurance cover theft?
Yes, comprehensive insurance covers theft. It may also cover damage if your car is recovered but vandalized or missing parts.
What is a comprehensive claim and how do I file one?
A comprehensive claim is a request for your insurer to cover damage that was caused by something other than a collision (e.g., theft, fire, hail, or animal damage).
To file a comprehensive claim:
- Take photos and gather any necessary details.
- If it’s theft or vandalism, file a police report first.
- Contact your insurer and provide details of the incident and any supporting documents.
- Your insurer may send an adjuster or ask for repair shop estimates.
- Pay your deductible, and the insurance company will cover the rest up to your car’s actual cash value (ACV).
What is a comprehensive loss in insurance?
A comprehensive loss refers to damage to your vehicle from a covered non-collision event that results in either repair costs or a total loss. If the cost to repair the car exceeds its actual cash value (ACV), the insurance company may declare it a total loss and compensate you for the car’s value, minus your deductible.
Do I need to have comprehensive insurance by law?
No, comprehensive insurance is not legally required. However, if you’re leasing or financing your car, your lender may require you to carry comprehensive coverage to protect their investment.
What’s the difference between liability and comprehensive insurance?
Liability insurance covers damage or injuries you cause to others in an accident. Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your car from non-collision events (like theft, fire, or weather-related damage). Liability insurance is required by law, while comprehensive insurance is optional unless required by a lender.
What is not covered by comprehensive insurance?
Comprehensive insurance does not cover:
- Medical bills for you, your passengers, and other drivers
- Damage to another driver’s vehicle
- Normal wear and tear
- Mechanical breakdowns
- Intentional damage
- Damaged or stolen personal belongings inside the vehicle
- Vehicle damage related to auto collisions