What is the difference between collision and comprehensive insurance?

Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., serving the greater Richmond, VA community, is happy to assist with all your auto insurance needs. There are two main types of auto insurance coverage: collision and comprehensive. Collision insurance covers damage to your car resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object. Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your car caused by things like fire, theft, or vandalism. 

Here’s a look at the difference between collision and comprehensive insurance, when you would need each type of coverage, and how to choose the right type of insurance for your needs.

Collision Insurance vs Comprehensive Insurance

The main difference between collision and comprehensive insurance is the type of damage that each cover. Collision insurance is primarily concerned with the damage your car incurs as a result of a collision with another vehicle or object, such as a guardrail, telephone pole, or another car. Comprehensive coverage generally covers anything that isn’t related to an accident, including damage caused by fire, theft, vandalism, natural disasters, and other non-collision events.

Typically, you would need both types of insurance if you own a car. For example, let’s say that your car is involved in an accident and suffers significant damage. Without collision insurance coverage to help pay for repairs or replacement costs, you may be left responsible for covering these costs out of your own pocket. Similarly, if your car is damaged or stolen in a random act of vandalism, comprehensive insurance would help cover the costs of repairing or replacing your car.

Contact Us Today

Choosing between collision and comprehensive insurance can be a difficult decision, as there are many factors to consider when making this choice.  If you have any questions about your car’s insurance, give Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. a call today. We proudly serve the Richmond, VA area.