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How to find the best full coverage car insurance

Car insurance is a legal requirement in almost every state. You must carry a minimum amount of coverage to register your vehicle and get behind the wheel. However, most car insurance companies offer a variety of optional policies, including full coverage car insurance, which provide much higher levels of protection.

The average cost for a standard full coverage car insurance policy is around $1,300; however the price you’ll pay depends on where you live, your driving record, vehicle, and more.

Here’s what you should know about full coverage car insurance, including how much it costs in your state and who should consider it.

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Written by Elizabeth Rivelli

Reviewed by Alyssa DiCrasto

Last updated: January 30th, 2023

What does full coverage mean for auto insurance?

Full coverage car insurance is optional. A full coverage car insurance policy generally combines comprehensive physical damage coverage for your vehicle and personal liability and medical payments insurance. If you get into an accident, full coverage car insurance will pay for your vehicle’s repairs, usually up to the actual cash value (ACV) of your vehicle.

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What are the three types of car insurance?

Full coverage car insurance is a package that includes several individual policies. So, what does full coverage car insurance consist of? Here are the main components of this policy:

  • Liability insurance: Liability insurance provides bodily injury and property damage coverage when you cause an accident. If the other driver sustains injuries, or if their vehicle is damaged, this policy compensates them for their losses. It doesn’t cover your medical expenses or vehicle repairs in an accident you are responsible for.
  • Collision insurance: Collision insurance pays for your vehicle’s repairs after an accident that you cause. It typically pays out based on your car’s ACV, minus a deductible. It also covers damage related to accidents with stationary objects, like a fence or storefront, as well as rollover crashes.
  • Comprehensive insurance: Comprehensive insurance pays for repairs if your vehicle sustains damage from a non-collision incident. For example, comprehensive insurance covers theft, vandalism, weather-related damage, and damage from falling objects, fires, and floods. Like collision insurance, it pays out based on your car’s ACV, less a deductible.

While these are the three main types of car insurance included with a full coverage policy, it also can include medical payments coverage. This policy pays for your and your passenger’s medical expenses after an accident, regardless of which driver was at fault. Medical payments coverage limits are usually relatively low, so it’s still important to have a robust health insurance policy to cover injuries or rehab expenses.

Understanding the difference between full coverage and liability insurance

The biggest differences between full coverage insurance and liability car insurance are what is covered and who it covers.

Full coverage

What it includes: With a full coverage policy, you typically get collision, comprehensive, medical payments, and liability insurance.

What it covers: It provides physical damage for your vehicle if you cause an accident, or if your vehicle is damaged in a non-collision incident. You also get liability coverage and reimbursement for medical payments.

Who it covers: You and your passengers are covered in the case of an accident, and other drivers or vehicle are covered if you cause an accident.

Liability coverage

What it includes: With a minimum coverage policy, you only get liability insurance, which protects you financially if you cause an accident.

What it covers: If the other driver gets injured or their vehicle sustains damage, this policy compensates them for their losses, so you don’t have to pay out-of-pocket.

Who it covers: If you cause an accident, the other party is covered by this insurance policy.

Full coverage vs liability coverage

Liability insurance does not provide any protection for your losses, whereas a full coverage policy provides coverage for your vehicle, your medical bills, and your financial responsibility after an at-fault accident.

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How much does full coverage car insurance cost?

Full coverage car insurance provides significantly more protection than minimum coverage policies. Therefore, the cost of full coverage insurance is more expensive. The national average for full coverage insurance is around $1,300 per year.

Here is the average cost for a standard full coverage policy in each state.

However, car insurance rates are personalized to each driver based on a variety of factors. For example, your zip code, credit score, claim history, age, driving record, and vehicle can all impact your premium. To find the cheapest full coverage car insurance, you should shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurers. You can also look for insurance companies that offer discounts you can qualify for.

Is full coverage worth it?

The right type of car insurance is different for every driver. However, full coverage car insurance is generally worth it, and it’s recommended by many insurance agents.

Even though full coverage is more expensive, it provides significantly more protection than minimum coverage. Having a full coverage policy can also help you avoid paying out-of-pocket to repair your vehicle after an accident or other claim. If you drive a new car or a car that holds its value, full coverage insurance is often worth the added cost.

To find the best full coverage car insurance, take our short online survey. Based on your responses, you’ll get matched with a handful of insurance carriers in your area that offer full coverage policies.

Is it worth getting full coverage on an old car?

If you drive an older vehicle, you might be wondering if it makes sense to purchase a full coverage car insurance policy. Ultimately, it really depends on the ACV of the vehicle, as this determines how much money you can get from the insurance company after a covered loss.

In general, having full coverage insurance is still a good investment on a car that’s 10 years old or newer. But if you drive a car that’s older than that, the higher cost of a full coverage policy might not be worth it. To figure out whether you should get (or keep) full coverage insurance on an older car, you can do a simple calculation.

First, get an estimate of the ACV or fair market value of your vehicle and compare it to your annual premium. If your annual premium is close to or exceeds the ACV estimate, it no longer makes sense to have a full coverage policy. You wouldn’t receive much money to repair the vehicle in the event of a claim, especially when you factor in the deductible.

In addition, you should also consider cost when deciding to get full coverage insurance on an older car. Full coverage insurance is more expensive than minimum coverage and depending on the age and condition of the car, it might make more sense to pay for any repairs out-of-pocket, if you can afford it. You could potentially save a lot of money by having liability coverage only.

Methodology

Rate Retriever rates are based on public rate filings obtained by analytics company First Interpreter. This data comes from the rating plans insurance carriers submit to each state’s department of insurance. Rating plans detail how each carrier calculates premiums using factors such as location, age, gender, and driving record, and they ensure that insurance premiums are both fair and competitive.  

For the data on this page, we made the following assumptions: a single male with a clean driving record and Good credit score, driving a 2023 RAV4. We adjusted this profile by age to determine the rates you see on this page. 

These rates are not actual quotes and should be used only for comparative purposes. Your rates can vary significantly based on your unique driver profile. 

Car insurance coverage questions

What exactly does “full coverage” car insurance mean?

“Full coverage” car insurance means that your policy includes a combination of different kinds of coverage to protect you in case of an accident or other event. This typically includes liability coverage (to pay for damage you cause to others), collision coverage (to pay for damage to your own car), and comprehensive coverage (to pay for damage from things like theft, vandalism, or natural disasters). It’s important to carefully review your policy to understand exactly what is covered and how much protection you have.

Does full coverage insurance cover everything?

Full coverage insurance typically covers a wide range of things like damage to your car from accidents and theft, as well as injuries to you and others. However, there may still be limits and exclusions depending on your specific policy. Some things, like routine maintenance or upgrades, may not be covered. It’s important to read your policy carefully and ask your insurance provider about any questions you have. Full coverage insurance is a good way to protect yourself in many situations, but it might not cover absolutely everything.

What types of coverage are included in full coverage car insurance?

Full coverage car insurance typically includes liability coverage, which pays for damage you cause to others, and collision and comprehensive coverage, which cover damage to your own vehicle. It may also include uninsured motorist coverage, which protects you if you’re in an accident with someone who doesn’t have insurance, and personal injury protection, which helps pay for medical expenses if you or others are injured in a crash. Some policies also offer extras like roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement. Full coverage insurance can provide more peace of mind and financial protection than basic liability coverage.

Is full coverage insurance required by law?

Full coverage insurance is not required by state law, but certain types of insurance are mandatory. For example, liability insurance is required in most states to cover damages you may cause to others in an accident. However, full coverage insurance, which includes comprehensive and collision coverage, is usually optional. It can provide extra protection for your own vehicle in case of accidents, theft, or other incidents. While not required, full coverage insurance may be a good idea for drivers who want added peace of mind and protection for their own vehicle. It’s important to understand your state’s insurance requirements.

How much does full coverage car insurance cost compared to other types of coverage?

Full coverage car insurance typically costs more than other types of coverage, such as liability or collision insurance. This is because full coverage includes comprehensive insurance, which covers damage to your car from things like theft or vandalism. The cost of full coverage can vary depending on factors like your age, driving record, and the type of car you drive. It’s important to compare quotes from different insurance companies to find the best price for the coverage you need.

Do I need full coverage if my car is paid off?

It’s your choice whether to get full coverage for your paid-off car. Full coverage can help protect you in case of accidents, theft, or other damage, but it can be more expensive. If you have savings to cover repair costs and aren’t worried about potential losses, you might be able to save money by only getting the minimum required coverage. Remember, insurance is meant to provide financial protection, so think about how much risk you’re comfortable with before making a decision.

Can I add full coverage to my policy at any time?

Yes, you can add full coverage to your insurance policy at any time. Just contact your insurance provider and they can help you adjust your policy to include full coverage. However, keep in mind that adding full coverage may increase your premium costs. It’s important to weigh the benefits of having more comprehensive coverage with the added expenses. Make sure to ask your insurance provider about any additional costs and coverage options before making changes to your policy.

Does full coverage insurance cover damage to my car in an accident that I caused?

Yes, full coverage insurance typically covers damage to your car in an accident that you caused. This type of insurance usually includes both collision and comprehensive coverage, which can help pay for repairs or replacement of your vehicle. However, you may still be responsible for paying a deductible before your insurance kicks in. It’s important to carefully review your policy and talk to your insurance provider to fully understand what is covered in the event of an accident.

Does full coverage insurance cover damage to my car from natural disasters or vandalism?

Yes, full coverage insurance typically covers damage to your car from natural disasters or vandalism. This type of insurance usually includes comprehensive coverage, which protects your vehicle from these types of events. If your car is damaged due to a natural disaster like a tornado or vandalism like graffiti, your insurance policy should cover the cost of repairs or replacement. It’s important to check your specific policy to understand what is covered and any deductibles that may apply. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for unexpected events that could damage your car.

Does full coverage insurance cover theft of my car or personal belongings inside my car?

Yes, full coverage insurance typically covers theft of your car and personal belongings inside the car. This means that if your car is stolen or items inside are stolen, your insurance may help cover the costs of replacing them. However, it’s important to read your insurance policy carefully to understand the specific coverage and any limitations that may apply. It’s also a good idea to take preventive measures, such as locking your car and keeping valuables out of sight, to reduce the risk of theft.

Is it worth having full coverage on an old car?

It may not make sense to pay for comprehensive and collision coverage if the car’s value is low. However, having full coverage can still be beneficial if you cannot afford to repair or replace your vehicle out-of-pocket in case of an accident. You should consider your budget and the car’s value before deciding if full coverage is worth it for your old car.

Can I switch from liability-only coverage to full coverage insurance mid-policy?

Yes, you can switch from liability-only coverage to full coverage insurance mid-policy, but your premium will likely be more expensive when you add the additional coverage. You’ll need to contact your insurance company to make the change and pay any additional fees. Full coverage insurance offers more protection, including coverage for damage to your own car, theft, and vandalism. Just be sure to review your policy and understand any changes in cost or coverage before making the switch.

Does full coverage insurance cover rental cars in other countries?

Full coverage insurance may cover rental cars in other countries, but it is important to check with your insurance provider before you travel. Some policies have limitations or restrictions on coverage outside of the United States. It’s best to inquire about specific details such as coverage limits, additional fees, and any required documentation. If your insurance does not cover rental cars abroad, you may need to purchase supplemental insurance from the rental car company. Always be sure to thoroughly read and understand the terms of your insurance policy to avoid any surprises while traveling internationally.

Can I add full coverage insurance to a vintage or classic car?

Yes, you can add full coverage insurance to a vintage or classic car. Full coverage insurance typically includes both liability coverage and comprehensive and collision coverage, which can help protect your car in case of accidents, theft, or damage. However, the cost of insurance for vintage or classic cars may be higher due to their higher value and potential costly repairs, and a specific classic car insurance policy may be more appropriate. It’s important to review your policy and talk to your insurance provider to understand the coverage options and costs for insuring your vintage or classic car.

Does full coverage insurance cover windshield repair or replacement?

Yes, full coverage insurance usually covers windshield repair or replacement. This type of insurance typically includes comprehensive coverage, which covers damage to your car that isn’t from a collision, like a cracked or shattered windshield. Keep in mind that there may be a deductible you have to pay before the insurance kicks in, and the extent of coverage can vary depending on your specific policy. It’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider to see what is covered under your plan.

Does full coverage insurance cover damage from hitting an animal?

Yes, full coverage insurance typically covers damage from hitting an animal. This type of insurance usually includes comprehensive coverage, which helps pay for repair or replacement costs if your car is damaged by things like hitting an animal. It’s important to check your policy to make sure you have this coverage and understand any limitations or deductibles that may apply. If you have any questions, you can always contact your insurance company for more information.

Does full coverage insurance cover rental car reimbursement if my car is in the shop?

It depends. Some full coverage insurance policies may include rental car reimbursement if your car is in the shop being repaired after an accident or covered event. It’s important to check with your insurance provider for specific details on what is covered and any limitations on rental car reimbursement in your policy.

Can I lower my full coverage insurance premiums by increasing my deductible?

Yes, you can lower your full coverage insurance premiums by increasing your deductible. A deductible is the amount of money you have to pay before your insurance kicks in. By choosing a higher deductible, you are agreeing to pay more out of pocket if you have a claim. This means the insurance company has less risk, so they can offer you a lower premium. However, be sure you can afford the higher deductible in case you do have to make a claim. It’s important to weigh the potential savings against the financial risk of a higher deductible.

Does full coverage insurance cover damage to my car caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers?

Full coverage insurance typically includes coverage for damage caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers. This can help pay for repairs to your car if the other driver doesn’t have enough insurance or any insurance at all. It’s important to check your policy to see what specific coverage you have for these situations. You may also have the option to add additional uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage to your policy for extra protection.

Does full coverage insurance cover towing expenses?

It depends on your policy. Some full coverage insurance covers towing costs if your car needs to be towed after an accident or break down. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to make sure towing expenses are covered under your specific policy.

Is roadside assistance included in full coverage insurance?

Sometimes. With roadside assistance, if your car breaks down on the road, you can call for help and they will send someone to assist you with things like a flat tire, dead battery, or running out of gas. It’s important to check your policy to see exactly what is covered and if there are any specific limits or conditions for using roadside assistance. Having this coverage can give you peace of mind knowing help is just a phone call away.

Can I customize my full coverage insurance policy with additional coverage options?

Yes, you can customize your full coverage insurance policy by adding additional coverage options. Options may include coverage for rental car reimbursement, roadside assistance, or gap coverage. Talk to your insurance agent to explore the available options and determine which additional coverages may be best for your needs. Adding extra coverage can provide further protection and peace of mind in case of an accident or unexpected event. It’s important to carefully review and understand all options and costs before making any changes to your policy.

What happens if I cancel my full coverage insurance policy?

If you cancel your full coverage insurance policy, you may no longer be protected if your car gets damaged in an accident, stolen, or if there is severe weather damage. You could be responsible for paying for any repairs or replacements out of pocket. It’s important to consider if you can afford to cover these expenses on your own before canceling your policy. Additionally, if you cancel your insurance policy and then decide you need coverage again, you may have to pay higher rates in the future. Make sure to understand the consequences before making a decision.

Does full coverage insurance cover medical expenses for me and my passengers?

If your full coverage insurance policy includes PIP or Medical Payments insurance, it may help cover medical expenses for you and your passengers. However sometimes medical expenses are covered by your health insurance policy. It is important to have both health insurance and full coverage insurance to ensure you have the proper coverage for medical expenses and vehicle damage in case of an accident.

What is the deductible for full coverage insurance?

The deductible is the amount of money you have to pay out of your own pocket before your insurance kicks in to cover the rest of the cost of a claim. It is like a down payment before the insurance company helps pay for damages or repairs. Deductibles can vary depending on the policy and how much you want to pay upfront, most commonly $500 – $1,000. Usually, the higher the deductible, the lower your premium will be, but make sure you choose a deductible you can afford in case of an accident.

Can I choose my deductible amount for full coverage insurance?

Yes, you can choose your deductible amount for full coverage insurance. A deductible is the amount of money you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in to cover the rest. Typically, the higher you set your deductible, the lower your monthly premium will be. It’s important to pick a deductible that you can comfortably afford in case of an accident or other unexpected situation. Make sure to consider your financial situation and how much you’re willing to pay out of pocket in case of a claim before selecting your deductible amount.

How does my driving record affect the cost of full coverage insurance?

Your driving record can greatly impact the cost of full coverage insurance. If you have a history of accidents or traffic violations, insurance companies may see you as a higher risk driver and charge you more for coverage. On the other hand, if you have a clean driving record with no accidents or tickets, you may be eligible for lower rates. It’s important to drive safely and follow traffic laws to keep your insurance costs down.

Are there any discounts available for full coverage insurance?

Yes, there are discounts available for full coverage insurance. Some insurance companies offer discounts for safe driving records, bundling policies, paying in full upfront, taking a defensive driving course, having certain safety features on your car, or being a loyal customer. It’s important to ask your insurance provider about any discounts that may apply to you to ensure you are getting the best price for your coverage. Remember, discounts can vary between insurance companies, so it’s a good idea to compare quotes and policies to find the best deal for you.

Do I need full coverage insurance if I lease or finance my car?

Yes, if you lease or finance your car, it is typically required to have full coverage insurance. This type of insurance provides protection for your vehicle in case of accidents, theft, or other unexpected events. It helps cover the cost of repairs or replacing your car if it is damaged. Without full coverage insurance, you could be responsible for paying for these expenses out of pocket. Make sure to check with your leasing or financing company to see their specific insurance requirements.

Can I get full coverage insurance for a rental car?

Yes, you can get full coverage insurance for a rental car. Most rental car companies offer additional insurance options to cover damages and accidents. Full coverage insurance includes collision and comprehensive coverage, which can protect you if the rental car is damaged or stolen. It is important to check with the rental car company about their insurance options and costs before renting a car to make sure you have the coverage you need.

Does full coverage insurance extend to other drivers who borrow my car?

Yes, full coverage insurance typically extends to other drivers who borrow your car. This means that if someone else is driving your car with your permission and gets into an accident, your insurance should cover damages to both your car and the other driver’s car, as well as any injuries they may have suffered. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to make sure that your policy includes coverage for other drivers and to understand any limitations or restrictions that may apply.

Does full coverage insurance cover damage to my car’s interior from extreme temperatures?

Full coverage insurance typically covers damage to the exterior of your car caused by accidents or other events, but it usually does not cover damage to the interior from extreme temperatures. It’s important to review your policy carefully and speak with your insurance agent to understand what is and isn’t covered under your specific coverage plan.

Does full coverage insurance cover damage to my car caused by a natural disaster while parked?

Yes, full coverage insurance typically covers damage to your car caused by a natural disaster while it is parked. This type of insurance includes comprehensive coverage, which protects your vehicle from non-collision events like storms, floods, fires, and other natural disasters. If your car is damaged by a natural disaster while parked, your insurance should help cover the cost of repairs or replacement, minus any deductibles that may apply.

Does full coverage insurance cover damage caused by an animal in the car?

Yes, full coverage insurance typically includes comprehensive coverage, which covers damage caused by animals. However, it’s important to check your specific policy details or talk to your insurance provider to make sure you are fully covered for any animal-related damages.

Does full coverage insurance cover damage caused by road debris?

Yes, full coverage insurance can cover damage caused by road debris. This type of insurance typically includes comprehensive coverage, which can help pay for repairs or replacement of your vehicle if it’s damaged by things like rocks, debris, or other hazards on the road. It’s important to check your specific policy details to see what is covered and if there are any limitations or deductibles that apply.

Does full coverage insurance cover damage to my car’s tires and wheels?

Full coverage insurance usually covers damage to tires and wheels if it is the result of a covered loss, like a car accident or vandalism. However, it may not cover normal wear and tear, such as flat tires or worn treads. It’s important to check your specific policy to see what is included in your coverage. If you have questions, you can always contact your insurance provider for more information.

Does full coverage insurance cover damage to my car’s audio and entertainment system?

Full coverage insurance typically does not cover damage to your car’s audio and entertainment system. This type of insurance usually only covers damage from accidents, theft, or natural disasters to the car itself. However, you may be able to add on extra coverage specifically for your audio system through a separate policy or endorsement. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to see what specific coverage options are available for your car’s audio and entertainment system.

Does full coverage insurance cover damage caused by a hit-and-run driver?

If you have full coverage insurance, you can usually get help with the repairs or replacements needed after a hit-and-run incident. This type of insurance includes both collision coverage, which pays for damage to your car from accidents, and uninsured motorist coverage, which covers the costs if the at-fault driver is uninsured or cannot be identified, like in a hit-and-run. It is important to check the specific details of your policy to make sure you are covered in these situations.

Does full coverage insurance cover damage caused by hitting a pothole?

Most policies classify pothole damage as a collision, which is typically included in a full coverage policy. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand what is covered by your specific policy. Be cautious when driving to avoid potholes and prevent damage to your vehicle.

Does full coverage insurance cover damage to my car caused by faulty repairs?

Yes, full coverage insurance may cover damage to your car caused by faulty repairs. However, it’s important to check your policy to see if this type of damage is included. If it is not covered, you may need to file a claim with the repair shop’s insurance or seek legal action to recoup the costs. Be sure to keep records of the repairs and any damage caused by them to support your claim. It’s always best to report any issues to your insurance provider as soon as possible to determine the best course of action.

Full coverage insurance typically covers legal expenses if you’re sued after an accident. This can include hiring a lawyer to defend you in court and paying for settlement costs. It’s important to check your specific policy to see what is included in your coverage. Make sure to contact your insurance provider if you have any questions about legal expenses in case of a lawsuit.

What is the difference between full coverage and comprehensive coverage?

Full coverage typically refers to auto insurance policies that include liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. Liability insurance helps pay for others’ injuries or damages, while collision coverage helps pay for damage to your own car in an accident. Comprehensive coverage, on the other hand, helps pay for damage to your car from things like theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. So, while full coverage includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, comprehensive coverage specifically focuses on damages to your car from certain incidents.

Does full coverage insurance cover damage caused by falling objects?

Yes, full coverage insurance typically covers damage caused by falling objects like tree branches or hail. This type of insurance usually includes comprehensive coverage, which helps pay for repairs or replacement of your car if it’s damaged by falling objects.

Does full coverage insurance cover me if I drive someone else’s car?

Full coverage insurance typically covers the car you own or lease. If you drive someone else’s car, their insurance would usually cover any accidents. It’s essential to check with the car owner’s insurance company to make sure you’re protected. Some policies might offer limited coverage for driving other cars, but always clarify with the insurance provider to avoid any surprises. Driving someone else’s car without proper insurance could result in you being liable for any damages or injuries, so it’s crucial to be informed about what is covered before getting behind the wheel.

Can I get full coverage insurance for a car that I use for business purposes?

Yes, you can get full coverage insurance for a car that you use for business purposes. However, it may be more expensive than personal insurance because there is a higher risk of accidents when using the car for business. Be sure to discuss your options with your insurance provider to find the best coverage for your situation.

Does full coverage insurance cover damage caused by flooding or earthquakes?

Full coverage insurance typically covers damage caused by natural disasters such as flooding or earthquakes. This is because full coverage includes comprehensive coverage which covers damage caused by natural disasters.