What Are the Different Types of Auto Insurance

Summary: There are a number of different types of auto insurance that are available to drivers. In the United States, auto insurance is mandatory and not a choice. However, drivers can enjoy a number of varying insurance offerings in order to allow them the flexibility in cost and coverage that they are looking for from their insurance company.

There are a number of different types of auto insurance that are available to drivers. In the United States, auto insurance is mandatory and not a choice. However, drivers can enjoy a number of varying insurance offerings in order to allow them the flexibility in cost and coverage that they are looking for from their insurance company. Not all insurance companies offer the varying types of coverage, so it is very important for you to check with your company to learn the limitations of what they have to offer you. Liability coverage from an auto insurance company will cover the damage that occurs to other drivers as a result of your actions. There are a few different levels to liability coverage. First, bodily injury liability will cover the cost of another person's medical costs or death if they are hurt in an accident that is found to be your fault. If a person in an accident files a case against you as a result of the accident, liability coverage can provide you with some legal defense. You will want your liability coverage to ensure that if a claim is brought against you, you have enough insurance to cover a judgment without involving your own personal finances or assets. Property damage liability covers the cost of repair or replacement when you damage someone else's property in an accident if the accident is proven to be your fault. Insurance collectively referred to as comprehensive and collision coverage will cover the cost of repair or replacement of your vehicle in the event of an accident. In some cases, the coverage will also cover the cost of another vehicle if you are not driving your own when the accident occurs. Comprehensive insurance coverage can also cover the cost of your vehicle if your car is stolen, damaged by animals, a fire or flooding. Specific coverage is limited to the terms and conditions set forth in your insurance policy; as such, individuals need to check with their insurance company for details in their policy. Underinsured motorist property damage covers the cost of repairs when the negligent party possesses insurance, but the limitations of which would not be enough to repair the damage caused. Underinsured motorist bodily damage covers the medical costs for you, members of your household and passengers in your car when the insurance of the negligent driver does not cover the entirety of the amount needed. Uninsured property damage protects the vehicle of a person who gets into an accident with a negligent driver who does not have insurance. Uninsured motorist bodily injury protects insurance policy holders, members or their household and passengers in their vehicle from medical costs or the costs of death. This policy will be relevant in the event that an no-fault driver does not have insurance. Only twelve states within the United States offer no-fault insurance, where insurance coverage is covered on the part of the policy holder regardless of whose fault the accident may be. This means that your vehicle or bodily damage will be covered by your own insurance, whether you are the negligent driver or not.