Coverage For Your Car

There are two types coverage that you can choose to purchase to protect your car.

• Collision Coverage pays for physical damage to your car as a result of your auto colliding with an object, such as another car or a tree.
• Comprehensive Coverage pays for damage to your auto from almost all other losses other than collision. Covered losses under comprehensive coverage include the following: theft, fire, vandalism, weather related losses such as hail, water (flood), falling objects, damage caused by a bird or animal, and glass breakage.

When purchasing collision or comprehensive coverage, you will need to determine what your deductible should be. A deductible is the amount of money you agree to pay prior to the insurance company making any payment on a loss. Typical deductible amounts are $250, $500 or $1000.

Other Optional Coverage

Depending on what you want to protect against and how much money you want to spend, there are several other types of coverage which you may purchase. These include:

• Medical Payment Coverage (MPC) pays for the medical and funeral expenses for you or others injured or killed in an accident while riding in or driving your auto. This coverage also often extends to insureds that are struck by a vehicle while acting as a pedestrian. Covered expenses include hospital, surgical, chiropractor, dental, and funeral expenses. This might duplicate benefits provided by your health insurer.
• Rental reimbursement coverage or transportation expenses pay for a rental car if your vehicle is damaged by a covered loss. This coverage is usually purchased with a daily and total maximum. For example, $20 per day up to a total of $600.
• Towing or Emergency Road Service coverage pays the cost of towing your car to a repair shop.

What To Do In Case Of An Accident

If you are in an accident, you should:

• Remain calm.
• Telephone the proper authorities and inform them of any injuries. Regardless of the circumstances, report the accident to the police.
• Check for any injuries and administer first aid if necessary.
• Record the name, address and phone number of the other driver. Always write down the make and license number of all vehicles involved.
• Collect the names, addresses and phone numbers of all passengers and witnesses.
• Take photos of the accident scene if possible.
• Do not admit fault.
• Ask the investigating officer how to obtain a copy of the police report.
• Notify your agent or insurance company immediately.

Key Points to Remember When Considering An Auto Policy

• Your auto insurance policy will financially protect you up to your policy limits for auto damage or injuries resulting from an auto accident.
• Be aware of the types of coverage offered and what is required in your state.
• Review your auto policy and stay informed on what and whom your auto policy will cover.
• Know your state’s minimum amount of liability coverage required, and decide what amount is best for your situation.
• The state in which you reside will have either a tort or no-fault system in place.
• Know how to file a claim with your insurance company.
• When an accident occurs, know what to do to protect yourself and others around you.