There are two types of auto insurance coverage that can help keep your family's finances, interests, lifestyle and assets safe after an accident. These are collision and comprehensive coverage.
What is Collision Coverage?
Collision coverage provides, within limits, repair or replacement expenses for a vehicle that has been involved in a collision. Without this coverage, you would be forced to pay for your own auto repairs or buy your own new car if yours was totaled in a collision. If the other driver in the collision was at fault, you could go after him for damages but if he had insufficient insurance coverage, you might be out of luck.*
What is Comprehensive Coverage?
Comprehensive coverage protects drivers against the expenses caused by theft, vandalism and acts of nature. Without comprehensive coverage, a stolen and subsequently totaled car could mean a huge debt for you and your family.
Do I Need This Coverage?
If you aren't sure whether you need collision and comprehensive coverage, the first thing you should do is check the Kelley Blue Book value of your vehicle. Find out how much your vehicle’s worth and get auto insurance quotes for collision and comprehensive coverage with limits that match the value of your vehicle. This will help you determine if it's affordable to keep that coverage and could make the decision for you.
If you decide to skip collision and comprehensive coverage remember that you must be able to afford the financial consequences of this decision. Without insurance helping take on the expense of repairing a car, you could be forced to rely on credit cards to get your car up and running. You could miss work in the meantime and your children may be forced to miss out on extracurricular activities. Without an auto insurance policy to pay for a car that's been totaled, you could be saddled with debt that you can’t afford.
If you have a loan, chances are your lender will expect you to have certain amount of collision and comprehensive. Otherwise, it's up to you to determine whether you can afford to go without this vital coverage. If you need quotes or want to find out how to make your Missouri auto insurance coverage more affordable give us a call at 800-530-5822.
*Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can also help ensure you get payment for damages when the other driver has no property damage liability or too little.