Understand full coverage vs. liability coverage by looking at the difference in what's insured by each policy. Liability coverage is your state's minimum required insurance and it protects others during at-fault accidents. Full coverage includes liability coverage, as well as comprehensive and collision coverage. The extra features protect your own vehicle during not-at-fault accidents and surprise events, such as car theft.
What is liability coverage?
Liability coverage is typically your state's minimum coverage requirement. Exceptions are Virginia, New Hampshire and parts of Alaska. This policy covers you for the following:
- At-fault accidents: You're in an accident and cause damage to another vehicle, a person, or piece of property (fences, walls, or structures).
- Legal costs and payouts: You're found liable for legal fees or need to settle a payout. It doesn't cover intentional damage, criminal charges, or contractual liabilities.
Knowing how much liability coverage to get
Liability coverage typically pays for at-fault accidents up to an average limit of $30000. What happens if the damage done to another vehicle during an at-fault accident exceeds this minimum coverage? You pay for these repairs out-of-pocket.
The best way to work out how much liability coverage to get is to look at your budget.
What is full coverage?
Full coverage is an auto insurance policy that includes liability coverage, comprehensive coverage, and collision coverage. The two additional features in this policy are broken down to cover the following:
- Collision coverage: Your car gets damaged during a not-at-fault accident and needs repairs. If it's totaled, you're able to claim for a replacement. In some cases, your insurance company covers a rental until your own vehicle's repairs are complete.
- Comprehensive coverage: Surprise accidents between your car and an object. This includes weather damage, falling tree branches, and vandalism.
Companies with the best full coverage rates
We've put together a list of leading insurance companies with competitive full coverage rates, such as the following:
- Progressive: Progressive provides full coverage at an average rate of $199 per month. Protect yourself and get even more affordable rates by joining their loyalty program. Contact Progressive to get your quote, today!
- State Farm: State Farm provides full coverage at an average monthly rate of $145. Cut back on the costs of your insurance premiums by opting for one of their many discounts.
- GEICO: At GEICO, full coverage costs an average of $180 per month. Save by applying for discounts and earning loyalty rewards. New customers report saving $500 after switching to GEICO.
- Nationwide: Nationwide has full coverage at an average cost of $191 per month. Save money with multi-policy discounts, as well as good driver's discounts.
- Allstate: Allstate charges an average rate of $295 per month for full coverage. Get up to 25% in discounts if you're a student. Contact Allstate to get an easy quote, today!
When do I need full coverage?
There's many reasons for you to consider upgrading to full coverage, including the following:
- Full coverage benefits those who drive their vehicles daily. It's especially advised if you own a sports car because it provides coverage for expensive repairs.
- Full coverage is essential in states that experience severe weather. You're completely protected in the event of hail, heavy rains, or wind damage.
- Your full coverage policy covers for car theft and vandalism, proving you with peace of mind.
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