3 Unexpected Events That A Comprehensive Auto Insurance Policy Would Cover

Drivers have options when it comes to their auto insurance. They may be bound by law to have certain types of coverage. Most states require a minimum of liability insurance. There are a variety of add-ons that individuals can choose to create customized insurance policies to meet their needs.  

A common confusion that drivers have is about whether or not they should get comprehensive coverage. Some of them may not know what it is. There are many drivers who have collision insurance, which protects them if a car accident occurs. Comprehensive coverage offers additional protection and is a valuable insurance product. Here are a few things that could happen that it would cover and collision would not. 

Fallen Objects

There are a variety of objects that could land on a vehicle and cause auto body damage. Tree limbs are among the most common. However, other objects such as baseballs or golf balls could also hit a vehicle if it is parked in areas where sports play is occurring. Hailstorms may also cause damage. 

Striking an Animal

In different parts of the country, certain animals wander into the road. Sometimes these animals are a threat to the point that special traffic signs are created to warn drivers that the area they are driving in has a high population of these animals. Deer, moose, cattle, and elk are common culprits. It is also possible to damage a vehicle if a large dog is struck. Drivers need to understand that collision coverage does not protect against anything their vehicles strike. It only applies to car accidents and events such as losing control of a vehicle and striking a building or fence.

Natural Disasters Damage

There are a variety of natural disasters that have caused serious damage to vehicles. Some drivers have had to learn in the middle of a stressful period in their lives that their auto insurance would not cover their vehicle damages because they did not have comprehensive coverage. Floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, and wildfires are all types of natural disasters that cause serious damage to vehicles. Individuals who live in areas where these events are common should review their insurance policies with an agent. Inclement weather that is not categorized as a natural disaster can also cause vehicle damage. Hail, high winds, and heavy rain can all lead to damages that are covered under comprehensive coverage. 

An auto insurance agent is a good resource to use to learn more about comprehensive insurance. They can also explain other insurance products such as uninsured motorist policies, which also offer additional protection.