If you ever wondered what your car insurance will actually cover, the Folsom Auto Mall is here to help. We’ve put together a quick explanation of typical benefits covered under most car insurance policies. Of course, all policies are different, and you can choose specific benefits to suit your needs. But here’s a quick overview to teach you the basics.
The short answer is covered pretty succinctly by Car and Driver with this explanation:
“If your vehicle was damaged due to a collision or other covered incident, such as a fire or theft, regular car insurance might help offset the cost for repairs. However, repairs for routine mechanical breakdowns as well as normal wear and tear are usually not covered in an insurance policy.”
Typically, most car insurance policies cover repairs due to a collision. In simplest terms, car insurance will pay for repairs if you’re ever in an accident. It also usually covers natural disasters like hail, floods, fires, hurricanes and tornados. Most policies cover damage due to vandalism, theft, falling objects - and even rocks that might crack your windshield on the highway.
What car insurance DOES NOT typically cover are repairs due to mechanical failure or related to any vehicle maintenance. It won’t cover things like oil changes, spark plugs or filters - or any part that may fail due to normal wear and tear. Insurance doesn’t include engine repair due to failure or tire replacement due to normal wear; it won’t even cover a nail in your tire. Instead, you might consider purchasing a pre-paid maintenance plan, road hazard or service policy from your dealership. Those policies can save you money by purchasing your service in advance.
Most basic car insurance policies do not cover personal belongings that might’ve been damaged or stolen from inside your vehicle. However, there are sometimes add-ons you can purchase to cover those items. Additionally, you can add to your policy things like medical care, rental car reimbursement and roadside assistance.
Car insurance requirements differ by state, so make sure you have the minimum required amount on your vehicle. In California, you need $15,000 per person/$30,000 per accident “bodily injury liability”. You also need a minimum of $5000 for property damage liability. Some states also require coverage for uninsured motorists (but not California). Remember, though, it’s always better to be safe than sorry - so consider purchasing as much insurance as you can comfortably afford.
If you do find yourself in an accident, the Folsom Auto Mall offers collision repair; we can help you navigate your insurance claims and ensure your repairs are done right. Hope that helps!