Getting the right car insurance can sometimes feel tricky, especially when you run into terms like “comprehensive” and “collision.” Both types of coverage protect your vehicle, but they work in different ways. Knowing how each one works can help you make better choices about your insurance policy and avoid surprises if you need to file a claim. Let’s break down the difference in easy terms.
What Is Collision Coverage?
Collision coverage kicks in when your car crashes into something—a tree, another vehicle, a guardrail, or even a pothole. It covers the cost to fix your car after an accident where you’re at fault or when you collide with an object. If your car is totaled, collision insurance helps pay for the car’s value at the time of the accident.
Important to know: collision coverage doesn’t cover damage to other people’s property or injuries—only your car. For that, you need liability insurance.
What Does Comprehensive Coverage Cover?
Comprehensive coverage covers damage to your car caused by events other than collisions. Think of things like theft, vandalism, fire, flood, hitting an animal, falling objects, or natural disasters such as hail or windstorms. It also covers broken windows or windshield damage from things other than a crash.
This type of coverage is useful when damage comes from pretty much anything other than hitting something with your car or being hit by another vehicle.
How Do They Work Together?
These two coverages often work hand in hand. For example, if your car hits a parked car, collision coverage pays to fix your car. But if your car is stolen or damaged by a tree branch during a storm, comprehensive coverage would handle the repairs.
Having both helps protect you from many different risks on the road and off. Many lenders also require you to carry both if you’re financing your car.
What Does Each Coverage Cost?
Collision coverage usually has a higher premium than comprehensive because car-to-car or car-to-object crashes tend to cause more expensive repairs. Your deductible—the amount you pay before insurance kicks in—typically applies to both types, but you might choose different amounts for each.
Your driving record, car value, and where you live also affect how much you’ll pay.
When Might You Skip One?
If you have an older car that’s worth very little, skipping collision or comprehensive coverage might make sense because repair costs could be more than the car’s value. But if your car is new or expensive, having both coverages can save you from financial headaches.
Quick Comparison Table
| Coverage Type | What It Covers | Usual Situations | Pays For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Collision | A car crashes into or hits an object | Accident with another vehicle, crash into a pole | Repair or replacement of your car |
| Comprehensive | Non-collision damage (theft, weather, animals) | Theft, vandalism, hailstorm, flood | Repair or replacement of your car |
Why These Coverages Matter
Even the safest driver can face unexpected events like weather damage or accidents caused by others. Without proper coverage, the out-of-pocket costs for repairs or replacement can add up fast. Comprehensive and collision insurance give you peace of mind and protect your investment in your vehicle.
How Parish Protection Agency Can Help
Looking for clear, reliable advice on your auto insurance? Parish Protection Agency specializes in helping drivers find the coverage that fits their needs and budget. They can explain coverage details in straightforward terms and help you understand the best options for your situation.
No more confusion or guessing—just expert guidance you can trust.
Contact Parish Protection Agency
If you’re ready to get the right coverage or want to ask questions about your current policy, reach out to Parish Protection Agency. Their friendly team is ready to help you get the protection you need without the stress.
Contact Information
– Phone: 318-692-4663
– Website: Parish Protection Agency Facebook Page
Get in touch today and drive with confidence knowing you’re covered properly.
Source: Parish Protection Agency Facebook Page
Header Image Source: Troy Spoelma on Unsplash
