Collision vs. Comprehensive insurance: what is the difference?

by | Jul 2, 2024 | Business

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There are many drivers who purchase the minimum auto insurance that their state demands, and no more. The minimum is usually just liability that provides certain benefits to the driver of the other vehicle, but nothing for you or your vehicle. Other drivers however, will add collision and comprehensive insurance to their policy; these provide protection for their car plus other important benefits. Every driver should carry comprehensive insurance because it covers many situations; the only situation that comprehensive insurance does not cover is collision. When you ask for auto insurance quotes in Wichita KS you will often be offered collision and comprehensive as a bundle, however, they can be purchased as a standalone.

In the event that the car is financed, full coverage, both collision and comprehensive is usually a demand from the financier. If a car is being purchased with borrowed money, or if the car has a high value, it is wise to carry both collision and comprehensive insurance, even if the vehicle is totally wrecked, there will be enough money to pay off the loan or purchase a replacement vehicle. Normally, lenders will expect proof that both insurances are in force at the time the loan is agreed.

In reiteration; when you ask for auto insurance quote Wichita KS, you will be offered comprehensive which covers everything except collision damage, and collision cover provides protection in the event you car is damaged by coming into contact with another vehicle, any object or person or any obstacle on the road surface. Collision pays out regardless of the fact that the vehicle driver was at fault or not, it also covers any costs associated with towing the car, storage charges and salvage if the vehicle is completely written off due to the extent of the damage. Collision insurance will cover any and all repairs, and if completely wrecked, it will provide for a replacement vehicle.

Comprehensive insurance on the other hand covers theft of the vehicle, weather damage such as hail stones, vandalism, riot damage, falling aircraft, etc. Unless provided for in the policy, and subject to additional auto insurance quote Wichita KS, comprehensive insurance does not cover acts of God nor does it cover theft and vandalism by a family member or an employee, nor does it cover the vehicle contents, the tires or damage from poor maintenance.

The costs associated with both collision and compressive insurance takes into account several factors. Usually these factors are:

* The age of the primary driver

* The number of miles anticipated to be driven annually

* The area in which the car will be driven

* The value of the car

For those who own older cars with little value, the value of the car vs. the premium should be weighed to determine if the coverage is warranted.