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Search by Quote ID → Search by Date of BirthWhat is Comprehensive Car Insurance?
Comprehensive insurance is coverage that protects you in the event your vehicle is damaged due to something other than a car collision, such as theft, vandalism, or flooding.
Comprehensive coverage is usually sold with a deductible amount (the out-of-pocket expense an insured agrees to pay before any payment from the insurance company kicks in). Deductibles of $250, $500, or $1,000 are fairly common. As a general rule of thumb, the higher the deductible, the lower the corresponding coverage premium.
What does comprehensive insurance cover?
Some common events comprehensive insurance protects your vehicle from include:
- Theft
- Falling objects such as tree branches
- Vandalism
- Hailstorms
- Floods
- Fire
- Animal damage, such as hitting a deer
- Windshield damage1
Severe weather events and natural disasters can strike unexpectedly. Visit Mercury’s Catastrophe Center for preparedness tips and action plans to help protect your vehicle and minimize risks.
Do I need comprehensive insurance coverage?
If you’re leasing or financing a vehicle, your lender will likely require you to purchase comprehensive car insurance coverage. If you own your vehicle outright, comprehensive insurance is optional coverage on your car insurance policy. In that case, consider the value of your vehicle. If it were damaged or stolen, are you able to pay that amount out-of-pocket to repair or replace your vehicle? If not, then comprehensive insurance may be a good investment.
Learn more about auto insurance coverage options, and talk to your local insurance agent to determine if comprehensive car insurance is right for you.
1In some states, comprehensive coverage includes glass replacement with no deductible. This varies by state, so make sure to ask about the specifics when you purchase your policy.
Comprehensive vs. Collision Coverage
Understanding the difference between comprehensive and collision insurance can help you decide what coverage you need. While both protect your vehicle, they cover different types of damage.
|
Feature |
Comprehensive Insurance |
Collision Insurance |
|
What It Covers |
Damage to your vehicle caused by non-collision events, such as:
|
Damage to your car caused by a:
|
|
What’s Not Covered |
|
|
|
Deductible |
You choose a deductible, typically $250, $500, or $1,000. |
You choose a deductible, typically $250, $500, or $1,000. |
|
Legal Requirement |
It’s not legally required. However, it’s typically required if you have a lease or loan. |
It’s not legally required. However, it’s typically required if you have a lease or loan. |
|
Coverage Limit |
Usually covers up to the actual cash value (ACV) of the vehicle at the time of the loss. |
Usually covers up to the actual cash value (ACV) of the vehicle at the time of the loss. |