Learning All About Insurance Policies

Does Your Auto Insurance Have You Covered In These Situations?

22 March 2022

Anthony Rhodes

There is nothing quite like the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are covered by your auto insurance policy no matter what the circumstances are that lead to your vehicle being damaged. Unfortunately, far too many people are unaware of what their car insurance policy actually covers. All too often it isn't until they have a claim denied by the insurance company that these individuals find out they don't have the coverage they thought they had. You can help to prevent this from happening to you by taking just a moment to ask yourself whether your auto insurance has you covered in each of the following situations. If the answer to any of the questions is no, now is the best time to take action and add any necessary coverage options to your policy.

Situation #1: Your Vehicle Is Damaged In A Single-Car Accident Or You Are At Fault For Causing An Accident With Another Vehicle

Not all accidents will be covered by a standard auto insurance policy. This is because a standard policy is not designed to provide you with a cash benefit but rather to cover the cost of any damages to another driver's vehicle or personal property if you cause an accident. If you want to make sure that you are covered in the event of a single-car accident or an accident where you are at fault for damaging your own car, you will need to add collision coverage to your existing auto insurance coverage. 

Situation #2: Your Vehicle Is Broken Into And Vandalized Or Stolen

Even when parking your vehicle in the safest place you can, the possibility that your vehicle will be vandalized or stolen will always exist. Whether your vehicle is ultimately recovered by law enforcement or not, you are likely to experience some costs associated with the theft of your vehicle. For instance, you may need to rent a car until your vehicle is recovered or can be replaced. You may also need to repair any damage that is done to the vehicle while it is not in your possession. When dealing with this type of situation, you will be able to look to your insurance company for coverage if you have chosen to add comprehensive coverage to your policy.

Situation #3: Your Vehicle Is Hit By A Driver Who Doesn't Have Insurance, Doesn't Have Enough Coverage, Or Flees The Seen

There are three basic things that you must fall into place in order for you to file a claim against another driver's liability insurance coverage. First, you will need to be able to get identifying information from the other driver. Second, the driver that hit you will need to have a valid auto insurance policy. Third, this policy must offer enough coverage to cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle. If any of these things are missing, you will find it very difficult or even impossible to collect the damages you are entitled to through the other driver's insurance. While you may assume that your insurance company should automatically have you covered in this situation, most basic auto policies do not include coverage for this type of claim. In order to make sure you are covered, you will need to ensure your policy includes uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.

For more information, contact an auto insurance agency near you. 

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