Comprehensive vs. Collision: What’s the Difference and Do You Need Both?

What Does Comprehensive Insurance Cover?

Comprehensive car insurance covers almost everything except a collision. Generally, these are considered non-accidents. This includes but is not limited to:

• Theft
• Vandalism
• Fire
• Natural disasters (flood, hail, heavy winds)
• Falling trees, branches, and other objects and debris
• Hitting an animal (because the animal is considered an external force you can’t control)

What Does Collision Insurance Cover?

Collision car insurance covers damage caused by the impact of hitting something or getting hit while driving – also known as collisions. Collision insurance helps cover the cost to replace or repair your vehicle, whether it’s your fault or not.

This includes but is not limited to:

• Accidents with other vehicles
• Collisions with stationary objects or structures, like poles, fences, guardrails, or even a building or home
• Rolling your car (because it’s still caused by impact with an object or road surface)

Do You Need Both Comprehensive and Collision Insurance?

Technically, neither is required by law. Personal Injury Protection (PIP), Property Damage Liability, and Bodily Injury Liability are required in New Jersey. But most drivers have one or both types of coverage to protect their investment.

There are scenarios when it’s a good idea to have both.

• If you’re leasing or financing a vehicle, the lender will probably require both comprehensive and collision insurance to ensure full coverage.
• Both types of coverage are recommended if you have a newer, high-value vehicle, especially if the cost to replace or repair the vehicle is more than you can afford.
• You want peace of mind that you’ll be covered against a wide range of damage, whether accidental or intentional.

Think of it this way. If your vehicle were seriously damaged, would you need insurance to help cover the cost of repairs or replacement? Or are you comfortable paying out of pocket?

If you want to make sure you have the right types of automobile insurance, the company you work with is just as important as the coverage you purchase. Stanton Insurance Group will explain what’s covered and what’s not and make recommendations based on your specific situation. To speak with a member of our team, contact Stanton Insurance Group today.