When you purchase auto insurance, it can be difficult to know what you’re looking for. Media tells you that just “need to be legal” while other carriers tell you that you need a massive policy that seems overpriced and overdone. What’s the truth, and do you need comprehensive insurance or just liability coverage?
Read through these tips and insights to learn more about your car insurance, how to make the most of your policy, and what makes you “legal” in Florida. With an average of nearly 2.5% of your household income spent on auto insurance, you deserve to get some bang for your buck.
What is Comprehensive Auto Insurance?
Comprehensive auto insurance is a beautiful combination of coverages that will help you pay for the repair or replacement of your vehicle after an incident that Is not a traditional accident.
Some people might ask themselves, “how do I know if I have full coverage?” This is a fair question, but you should remember that comprehensive auto insurance handles a wide range of claims, including:
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Natural disasters
- Fire
- Projectiles or falling objects
- Animal damage
- Riots
Comprehensive coverage is not collision insurance. If you want to repair or replace your vehicle after an accident, you need collision insurance. If you lease or rent a car, you’re likely required to carry comprehensive coverage. If you bought the car, it’s your choice.
You might also add optional extras like rental car reimbursement, extra coverage for medical payments, or extra protection for an exotic car that covers its agreed-upon value. Speak with your insurance agent before buying a policy to make certain you are carrying the appropriate policy.
What is Liability Auto Coverage?
Liability auto coverage is the insurance the State of Florida requires of you before you get on the road. In the Sunshine State, you are required to carry:
- $10,000 personal injury protection
- $10,000 of property damage liability insurance
Bodily injury coverage is generally not required in Florida. However, those who have been convicted of DUI must carry:
- $100,000 of bodily injury coverage per person
- $300,000 of bodily injury coverage per accident
- $50,000 property damage coverage
Key Similarities Between Comprehensive and Liability Coverage
When you’re considering liability vs full coverage, remember that they serve two different purposes. You don’t need comprehensive insurance to drive legally, but you cannot drive safely (or legally) in Florida without liability coverage.
However, you may choose to tack additional property and medical payments coverage onto your comprehensive policy. You’ll pay more, but you may feel it’s necessary.
Distinct Differences Between Liability and Full or Comprehensive Coverage
As you can see, liability and comprehensive insurance are quire different, but you should remember these key differences:
- Liability insurance is required under the law, comprehensive is not
- Comprehensive insurance can repair your vehicle, liability cannot
- Liability insurance can cover other people involved in an accident
- Comprehensive coverage allows you to add special considerations, but liability only has three parts
- Neither of these policies includes collision coverage
Reach Out to HomePort for Assistance With Auto Insurance
When you need car insurance in Florida, reach out to HomePort Insurance for help with your current policy or for new coverage. We will answer all your questions, help you obtain the best coverage for your vehicle, and aim to save you money at the same time.
