Comprehensive vs. Collision Coverage: What’s Right for You?
Your vehicle faces many risks every day — from accidents to theft to severe weather. That’s why understanding comprehensive vs. collision coverage is essential to making sure your auto insurance policy provides the protection you need. These two key types of coverage offer important safeguards beyond basic liability insurance, helping keep your vehicle protected no matter what happens on the road or beyond.
What Is Comprehensive Coverage?
Comprehensive coverage helps pay for damage to your vehicle caused by events outside of your control. For example, if your car is stolen, hit by a falling tree branch, or damaged by hail, this coverage can help cover the cost of repairs or replacement.
Comprehensive coverage typically includes damage caused by:
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Wildlife
- Falling trees or branches
- Hail and other severe weather
- Fire
- Flooding
- Explosions
- Other non-collision incidents
What it doesn’t cover:
- Damage to other vehicles
- Damage to your car caused by a collision with another vehicle or stationary object
Deductible & Limit:
You’ll choose a deductible—usually between $100 and $2,000—which is the amount you pay out of pocket before coverage kicks in. The coverage limit is typically based on your vehicle’s actual cash value.
What Is Collision Coverage?
Collision coverage helps pay for damage to your vehicle resulting from a crash—regardless of who’s at fault or how many vehicles are involved.
Collision coverage typically includes damage from:
- Accidents with other vehicles
- Collisions with stationary objects (e.g., guardrails, poles, trees)
- Rollover accidents
- Potholes
What it doesn’t cover:
- Damage to other vehicles
- Damage from non-collision events (e.g., weather, theft)
Deductible & Limit:
Like comprehensive coverage, you choose a deductible (usually $100–$2,000), and your coverage limit is typically your car’s actual cash value.
Are Collision and Comprehensive Coverage Required?
Not by law. No state requires drivers to carry comprehensive or collision coverage. However, if you lease or finance your vehicle, your lender will likely require both.
Are These Coverages Included in My Policy?
If you have what’s often called a “full coverage” auto insurance policy, then yes—collision and comprehensive coverage are included. They’re commonly bundled together, although you can choose different deductible amounts for each.
Do I Need Collision and Comprehensive Coverage?
Both types of coverage are important for protecting your vehicle from a wide range of risks. While liability insurance only covers damage to others, collision and comprehensive help cover your vehicle—whether you’re at fault in an accident or your car is damaged by something unexpected.
If you’re weighing the cost, consider these four factors:
- Your Vehicle’s Value:
Own a newer or higher-value car? Both coverages are highly recommended. If your vehicle is worth less than $1,000, it might make sense to drop them. - Your Driving Habits:
Drive frequently, at night, or in high-traffic areas? Collision insurance is a good idea. Rarely drive your vehicle? You might opt out of one or both. - Your Location:
Live in an area prone to falling branches, floods, hail, or hurricanes? Comprehensive coverage is a smart choice. - Your Emergency Fund:
Can you afford to repair or replace your vehicle out of pocket? If not, keeping this coverage could save you a major financial headache.
Pro tip: Many insurance professionals suggest dropping collision coverage when the annual premium exceeds 10% of your vehicle’s market value. For example, if your car is worth $3,000 and collision coverage costs $350 per year, it may no longer be cost-effective.
Also worth noting: If your car is listed on someone else’s policy and kept at their address, you likely don’t need to pay for your own collision or comprehensive coverage.
How Can I Save on Comprehensive and Collision Coverage?
One of the easiest ways to save is by choosing a higher deductible. A higher deductible means you’ll pay more out of pocket if you file a claim, but your monthly premiums will be lower.
While you can choose different deductibles for comprehensive and collision, selecting the same amount for both can make budgeting simpler.
Looking for more ways to save on car insurance?
Get a personalized quote today from the agents at C&S Insurance. We’re here to help you find the right coverage at the right price!