American culture has long been focused on the freedom and opportunity provided by the open road. Having access to your own car and having the ability to travel as you want to can be very liberating, but it also comes with a great deal of responsibility. Covering your liability is an important part of that responsibility.
If you're purchasing your first car or about to be responsible for your insurance for the first time, it's important that you know what options are available to you. Below, you'll find a guide to some of the optional coverages that are typically provided by your auto insurance company, offering you the chance to stay as protected as possible.
Collision and Comprehensive Coverage
In most jurisdictions, you're required only to have insurance that covers other people and vehicles in the event of a collision. While this handles your liability, it can leave you in a difficult situation if your vehicle is badly damaged or you suffer from a serious injury.
Your auto insurance company, however, can provide you with some relief. Collision coverage will cover body damage to your vehicle to allow for repairs, and comprehensive coverage will handle bodily injury and property damage as well. This is especially important if you frequently transport expensive items or particularly vulnerable people and can provide you great peace of mind.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
If you're in an accident and found not to be at fault, your damages are generally covered by the insurance of the other driver. Unfortunately, not all drivers are diligent in maintaining their insurance coverage, and if you're in an accident with someone with inadequate coverage, it can be very difficult to recoup the damages.
Uninsured motorist coverage is often an important addition to your auto coverage. It's generally low cost, as it is infrequently needed, and the coverage limits tend to be sufficient to cover most major damage. It also tends to cover property and injury, leaving you secure in the unfortunate event you need the coverage.
Personal Injury Protection
While it's fairly easy to guarantee the coverage of property in an auto accident, medical coverage is much more costly and difficult. Your coverage limits may be low and inadequate for providing you with all necessary care. Personal injury protection allows you to have medical security, and if you have a pre-existing medical condition, it's likely a wise choice to be sure you're covered for all eventualities.
For more help, try contacting a company like CDS Insurance Services to learn more.
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