Comprehensive Coverage vs Collision Coverage

If you need auto body repair in Colorado Springs, you want to understand the differences between comprehensive coverage vs. collision coverage. Depending on your situation, one of these insurance coverage types might pay for your automotive repairs. At Phil Long Collision Center, we look at the differences between comprehensive vs. collision coverage, so you know what to expect.

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Cost Difference

Collision coverage is more expensive than comprehensive coverage. However, both insurance policies come with a deductible that you choose with your insurance provider. Both will also have a limit to what can be paid out. For example, if you are in an accident and the car requires $5,000 worth of repairs, but you have a $500 deductible, you are responsible for paying that $500, and the insurance company pays $4,500.

What Is Covered By Comprehensive Insurance?

Comprehensive coverage handles aspects different from collision coverage. Generally, it covers losses that aren’t from driving the vehicle. As an example, most comprehensive policies will cover these events.

• Theft
• Fire
• Vandalism
• Natural disasters, such as a tornado or hurricane
• Damage done from animals
• Falling objects, such as downed trees
• Civil disturbances, such as riots

However, there are numerous things that aren’t covered by comprehensive insurance. If the damage was done to your vehicle as a result of a collision or you caused damage to a vehicle during an accident, comprehensive coverage will not protect you. It doesn’t cover any medical expenses following an accident either.

If you own your vehicle outright, comprehensive coverage is optional. On the other hand, if you lease or finance the vehicle, you might be required to carry comprehensive coverage with your policy.

What Is Covered By Collision Insurance?

Collision coverage is used to pay repairs on the vehicle after a collision has occurred. This accident can involve other vehicles or objects. It’s what coverage you want after an accident. As an example, most insurance policies cover these events under collision coverage.

• Collision with other vehicles
• Collision with an object, such as a fence or building
• Single-car rollover incidents

With that in mind, you cannot use collision coverage for any damage done to the other party’s vehicle. In addition, it won’t cover any medical bills that result from the accident. Collision coverage also excludes anything that would have been covered by a comprehensive policy.

As with comprehensive policies, if you own your vehicle outright, collision coverage is optional. On the other hand, if you lease or finance the vehicle, you might be required to carry collision coverage with your policy.

Deductibles, Limits, and What You Can Expect To Pay Out of Pocket Explained

It doesn’t matter whether you purchase comprehensive or collision coverage, you and the agent will work to choose an appropriate deductible. The deductible is the amount of money you are responsible for paying toward any covered claim.

As an example, let's assume you have a $500 deductible, and your car is damaged by hail. If the vehicle costs $2,000 to repair, you will be responsible for paying $500. In return, your insurance company handles the other $1,500.

Both policies are going to have a limit, reflecting the maximum amount of money you will receive for a covered claim. In many cases, the limit will be the actual cash value of what your vehicle is worth since there should be nothing else needed.

If you have comprehensive coverage and your vehicle is stolen, the insurance provider reimburses you the depreciated value of the car, minus what you owe for the deductible. Because of this, you might need to use some of your money to replace the stolen vehicle with something newer, as the money given to you from the insurance company won’t be enough.

It’s important to keep in mind that all comprehensive deductibles and limits are kept separate from the collision deductible and limit, as well as any other plans you agree to. It’s important to discuss all of your needs with an insurance provider to ensure you have the right coverage and the appropriate limits.

Why Choose Phil Long Collision Center For All Types of Vehicle Repair

Whether you need collision or comprehensive repair performed to your vehicle, Phil Long Collision Center can help. Our auto body shop in Colorado Springs is experienced in working with all makes and models to ensure a perfect repair. With the help of our trained staff, your vehicle can leave the shop looking like new once again, no matter what kind of damage it suffered. We are experts in paint matching, frame repair, and paintless dent repair. You are also met with the highest level of customer service when you walk through our doors. Schedule your car repair in Colorado Springs today to experience the difference.

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