No agent can sell a car insurance policy that guarantees you are 100% covered in all situations.
The term “full coverage” refers less to complete protection for your car and more to what your lender or car leasing agent requires you to carry.
While liability insurance is required coverage in nearly every state, comprehensive and collision coverages can differ from state to state.
In Florida, though, you must carry a minimum of $10,000 property damage liability (PDL) and $10,000 personal injury protection (PIP).
Liability vs. Full Coverage Insurance
Liability coverage is typically included in all automobile insurance policies. A liability-only insurance policy covers you up to the policy’s specified limits for damages or injuries someone else suffers when you’re the at-fault driver in an accident. The policy does not cover any damage to your vehicle. If you want that additional coverage, you need to add collision and comprehensive coverages.
Should You Add Optional Coverages?
Many lenders and car leasing agents describe “full coverage” auto insurance as liability plus comprehensive and collision. However, even if your lender or leasing agent doesn’t require full coverage insurance, you should seriously consider carrying it.
A new vehicle is a significant investment and should be protected as fully as possible. Adding collision and comprehensive coverage to the policy helps protect your investment.
If you own an older vehicle with minimal value, carrying collision coverage might not make sense. Just remember that if you decide to choose liability coverage only, you’ll be responsible for paying for the repairs in the event of an accident.
Other additional coverages, like rental car reimbursement and roadside assistance, are typically inexpensive and can be purchased according to your driving needs.
Full Coverage Insurance Protects You and Your Vehicle
Though Florida has mandatory minimum car insurance requirements, most drivers feel more secure with full coverage that protects them, their passengers, and their vehicle. In addition to PIP and PDL, you should consider bodily injury liability coverage. That way, you’re covered for severe or permanent injuries or someone’s death during an accident for which you’re at fault.
Many people choose fewer coverage options to keep their premiums low. However, you can get full coverage for less in some cases. For instance, policy costs may be discounted if your vehicle has certain safety features. In addition, many insurers give “good driver” discounts for a safe driving record. And others offer lower premiums for drivers who drive less than the average number of miles per year.
While there’s technically no such thing as “full coverage car insurance,” there are several coverages you can choose to ensure you are adequately protected in the case of an accident. Need help customizing a car insurance policy that meets all your coverage requirements? Talk to an agent at ABC Dennis Insurance about your options.
ABC Dennis Insurance
ABC Dennis Insurance is an independent insurance agency established in 1997 that provides automobile insurance to its customers. If you have not reviewed your insurance coverages this year, please call our office at (813) 949-7765 or email us.
Besides auto insurance, we can help with all your insurance needs. As an independent agency, we find the best insurance coverage with the most competitive rates.
