Sorting through the different types of auto insurance policies can feel like wading through a used car lot looking for the right car; everyone’s trying to sell you something, and it’s hard to believe that salesmen have your best interests in mind when they’re pitching their policies.
It’s easy to look only at the bottom line and choose the least expensive policy available to meet state insurance requirements. But this isn’t always the best option. When deciding between full coverage and liability-only insurance, the monthly premium is obviously a factor–but it shouldn’t be the deciding factor.
What’s the difference?
Liability-only policies generally meet minimum North Carolina state requirements–and nothing more. That means that they cover a minimum amount of damage caused to another vehicle or another person in case of an accident that you cause. But liability insurance won’t necessarily cover damage to your car or medical bills you sustain as a result of an accident for which you are found at fault.
Full coverage auto insurance doesn’t exactly exist. What do exist are insurance policies that cover more than the minimum damage. Collision coverage covers damages to your property in case of an accident. Comprehensive coverage also covers other damages your vehicle sustains that aren’t crash-related; this often includes theft, hail and weather damage, vandalism, and fire. Uninsured and underinsured motorist insurance covers your property damage and medical costs in case of an accident in which the other driver has an inadequate policy to cover your damages.
Making a Choice
When deciding what type of policy is best for you, your best bet is to talk to an independent agent in Burlington here at Don Allred Insurance. We’ll be able to help you make the best choice for your situation. You can also compare quotes here to get an idea of the different premiums for different types of coverage, so you can mix and match types of coverage to fit your needs.