What are the different types of auto insurance coverage? (2023)
Learn about the different types of auto insurance, from liability-only and full coverage to the most common types of car insurance add-ons.
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Leslie Kasperowicz
Farmers CSR for 4 Years
Leslie Kasperowicz holds a BA in Social Sciences from the University of Winnipeg. She spent several years as a Farmers Insurance CSR, gaining a solid understanding of insurance products including home, life, auto, and commercial and working directly with insurance customers to understand their needs. She has since used that knowledge in her more than ten years as a writer, largely in the insurance...
Farmers CSR for 4 Years
UPDATED: Feb 24, 2023
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider.
Our insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Feb 24, 2023
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider.
Our insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
- The most common types of auto insurance include liability, collision, comprehensive, personal injury protection (PIP), MedPay, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Other types of auto insurance coverage include rental reimbursement, gap coverage, roadside assistance, and mechanical breakdown insurance
- Full coverage insurance is a combination of coverage types that protect from various losses
Auto insurance is a must for anyone who owns or drives a car. It helps protect you from financial risk and offers peace of mind in case of an accident.
Depending on your state, the minimum auto insurance coverage you need will vary. To ensure you are well protected, you should know what the various types of car insurance cover.
This guide will explain the different types of auto insurance and what they cover.
- Auto Insurance Coverage FAQs
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a lightning strike?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a landslide or mudslide?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a hailstorm or heavy rain?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a friend who borrowed my car and got into an accident?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a flood or hurricane?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a driver who is uninsured or underinsured?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a blown tire?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a driver who borrowed my car without permission?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage to my own car if I am at fault in an accident?
- Can I get auto insurance for a self-driving car?
- Does my auto insurance cover a stolen car?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a deer or other wildlife?
- Can I change my auto insurance coverage at any time?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by an uninsured driver if I have collision coverage?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by my own negligence?
- Does auto insurance cover damage caused by an overheated engine?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a water main break?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a wildfire?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by an earthquake?
- Does auto insurance cover damage caused by a transmission failure?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a tornado or other windstorm?
- Does auto insurance cover damage caused by a sinkhole?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a runaway vehicle?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a road hazard?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage caused by a riot or civil unrest?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage to my car’s stereo or other aftermarket accessories?
- Does my auto insurance cover damage to my car if I hit a parked car?
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Most Common Types of Auto Insurance
There are several types of car insurance coverage available to meet your needs. Here are some of the most common:
- Liability auto insurance
- Collision car insurance
- Comprehensive car insurance
- Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
- MedPay Coverage
Continue reading to find out more about each type of coverage.
Liability Auto Insurance
Liability auto insurance is the most basic type of car insurance required by most states. It financially protects you from damages you cause in an at-fault accident. It pays for any damage you cause to another person’s body, property, or personal belongings.
While it won’t cover medical or auto repair expenses for you or your passengers, it can provide financial protection if someone sues you following an accident.
Collision Auto Insurance
Regardless of who was at fault in an accident, collision coverage assists in paying for repairs to your car. Collision insurance protects your car from damage caused by:
- An accident with another vehicle
- An accident with an object (e.g., a tree or a sign)
- An accident with a driver with inadequate insurance coverage
Collision coverage pays out based on how much your car is worth on the market right now, less any deductible. This coverage is optional in many states, but most lenders will require it if you finance or lease a car.
Comprehensive Auto Insurance
Comprehensive auto insurance protects you from losses that aren’t the result of a collision with another vehicle. Again, if you are leasing or financing your car, your lender will likely require you to have full coverage with collision and comprehensive auto insurance.
Comprehensive auto insurance covers:
- Weather-related damage (such as hail or flooding),
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Fire
It also covers any damage to your vehicle caused by an animal or a falling object, such as a tree branch.
Even if you own your car outright, getting comprehensive coverage is a good idea, especially if you live in an area prone to extreme weather (such as hurricanes). Comprehensive coverage can provide extra peace of mind that your vehicle will be covered in storm-related damage.
It’s important to note that while comprehensive coverage does provide wide-ranging protection against many different types of losses, it does not cover all potential damages.
For example, it does not cover the repair costs associated with an accident involving another vehicle, collisions with property, or multi-car accidents.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Suppose you are involved in an accident with someone with little or no insurance coverage. In that case, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage can help protect you from financial losses.
This type of insurance pays for your medical bills and other damages if you get into an accident with a driver without insurance or insufficient insurance. Learn more about what happens if you hit an uninsured driver.
It is important to note that uninsured motorist coverage is a legal requirement in 20 states, including California and New York. If you live in one of these states and do not have this coverage, you may be subject to fines or other penalties.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is a type of no-fault car insurance that helps cover medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses after an auto accident. It can also help cover the costs associated with funeral services in the event of a death.
PIP coverage pays regardless of who is at fault in a crash, so you don’t have to worry about lengthy lawsuits or expensive court battles for coverage if you’re hurt in an accident. Depending on your policy limits, PIP can provide up to $10,000 worth of coverage per person.
PIP coverage is mandatory in 12 states, including New York and Florida. In other states, it is optional but highly recommended, as it can save you thousands of dollars in medical expenses in the event of an accident.
Although PIP insurance provides much coverage, it does not cover certain injuries and activities.
For example, PIP does not cover farm equipment, recreational or off-road vehicles, mopeds, or motorcycles. Some motorcycle insurance policies may include PIP coverage but are usually very expensive.
PIP will also not cover injuries resulting from intentional acts by the insured person or if they become injured while participating in organized racing activities or committing a felony.
Medical Payments (MedPay) Coverage
Let’s say you want extra coverage to help pay for your medical bills after a car accident. In such a case, MedPay coverage may be a good option. MedPay, or medical payments coverage, helps pay for accident-related medical expenses for you, your passengers, and other policyholders.
MedPay is required in Maine and New Hampshire but is optional in all other states.
This type of auto insurance is similar to PIP coverage but with a narrower scope. Nonetheless, MedPay coverage is usually a worthwhile investment as it can provide vital financial support in the event of an accident.
Since the average bodily injury claim after a car accident can reach over $20,235, having MedPay insurance can help cover any medical expenses that might not be covered by health insurance or personal injury protection (PIP).
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Optional Types of Auto Insurance Coverage
In addition to the previously mentioned types of car insurance coverage, other coverages are available depending on your state and insurer. These include:
Gap Insurance
Gap insurance covers the difference between the amount of money owed on an auto loan and the actual cash value of the vehicle if it’s totaled or stolen.
It is essential for those financing or leasing their vehicles since this insurance will help you recover any financial losses in such circumstances. Learn how much gap insurance costs.
Umbrella Insurance
Umbrella insurance provides additional liability coverage beyond the limits of your auto and home insurance policies. In addition, it covers situations like major accidents and lawsuits from third parties and things that regular auto insurance may not cover.
Read our guide to find out when you should get umbrella insurance if you already have auto insurance.
SR-22 Insurance
SR-22 insurance is required for drivers who were convicted of certain violations, such as driving under the influence (DUI) or having multiple traffic violations within a certain time frame. You may also need to file SR-22 if you’re involved in serious at-fault accidents without proper auto liability limits or had your license revoked.
SR-22 forms aren’t actual insurance coverage but prove that you have the minimum required car insurance in your state. Learn more in our SR-22 auto insurance guide.
Rental Reimbursement
Rental reimbursement coverage reimburses you for transportation expenses when your vehicle is out of commission due to an accident or other covered event. For example, this may cover the cost of renting a car or rideshare services while yours is being repaired.
Mechanical Breakdown Insurance
Mechanical breakdown insurance helps cover the costs of breakdowns after your manufacturer’s warranty has ended or when your vehicle warranty doesn’t cover a mechanical failure.
Emergency Roadside Assistance
Emergency roadside assistance typically includes tow truck services, flat tire changes, jump-starts, refills of gas/fluids, locksmith services, and extrication services necessary due to an accident or breakdown.
Non-Owner Auto Insurance
Non-owner car insurance provides liability coverage for those who don’t own a car but still want basic liability coverage. It’s useful if they get into an accident while driving someone else’s vehicle or renting a car on occasion.
Usage-Based Insurance (UBI)
This new way to pay for car insurance uses sensors and telematic technology to track your driving habits. It rewards safe drivers with discounted rates based on their driving habits.
Classic Car Insurance
Classic car insurance is for vehicles considered ‘collector’s items’ and driven infrequently. Therefore, it typically offers coverage more specific to these vehicles than regular auto insurance. Learn when is a car considered a classic.
How to Buy the Right Type of Auto Insurance
Now that you understand the different types of car insurance coverage available, here are some tips to help you choose the right policy:
- Know what type of coverage you need. Do you need liability only, or do you require more extensive coverage such as comprehensive and collision?
- Decide how much insurance coverage you need. How much coverage you need depends on your age, ZIP code, and vehicle make and model.
- Shop around. Shop around and compare auto insurance quotes from several insurers to get the best rate. Companies may offer discounts and coverage options, so it pays to shop around.
- Ask about discounts. Ask your insurer if they offer discounts such as multi-car, good driver discounts, or low mileage discounts. Check the company’s website to see if they list any discounts.
- Read the policy carefully. Read your policy carefully and ensure you understand what’s covered and what’s not.
There is more than one way to get affordable auto insurance rates — find out the top 10 secrets for getting cheap car insurance.
The Bottom Line on the Different Types of Auto Insurance Coverage
Auto insurance is an important financial safety net for drivers and their families. Therefore, you should understand the different types of car insurance coverage available to ensure you are protected in the event of an accident.
Liability, collision, comprehensive, personal injury protection (PIP), MedPay, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage are the six main types of auto insurance coverage.
Other coverages are available depending on the state and insurer, such as gap insurance, umbrella insurance, SR -22 insurance, rental reimbursement, mechanical breakdown insurance, emergency roadside assistance, and non-owner car insurance.
Take your time to shop for the best car insurance rate and coverage types that suit your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does auto insurance work?
What does car insurance do? Auto insurance is a type of coverage that helps to protect drivers and their vehicles in the event of an accident or other covered loss. It can cover the damages to vehicles, liability for injuries, and other expenses related to an accident.
Does insurance cover hit and run?
Hit-and-run accidents are typically covered under your collision coverage if you have it. Liability insurance does not cover hit-and-run accidents because the at-fault party is not identified. Your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may cover your losses if you can identify the at-fault driver and they do not have enough insurance.
What does auto insurance cover?
Car insurance covers various expenses, including medical expenses, repair costs for damaged vehicles, liability for injuries, and legal fees. It depends on the policy and coverage types that you have.
Liability, collision, comprehensive, personal injury protection (PIP), MedPay, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage are the most common types of car insurance coverage.
What is full coverage insurance?
Full coverage insurance is a term used to describe a combination of coverage types that protect from losses due to accidents and other covered risks. It typically includes liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
What is collision coverage on a car?
Collision coverage is a type of auto insurance coverage that helps to pay for damages to your vehicle if you are in an accident with another car or object. It pays for repairs to your vehicle regardless of who is at fault in the accident.
Is comprehensive insurance the same as full coverage?
No, comprehensive insurance is not the same as full coverage. Comprehensive insurance covers losses to your vehicle caused by non-accident-related events, such as theft, fire, or weather-related damage. Full coverage insurance is a combination of coverage types that protect from various losses.
What are the five types of auto insurance?
The five main types of auto insurance are liability, collision, comprehensive, personal injury protection (PIP), and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
What is the most common car insurance?
The most common type of car insurance is liability coverage. This covers expenses related to damage to other people and property caused by you while driving your vehicle. Liability coverage is a legal requirement in most states.
Is comprehensive insurance worth it on an older car?
If the cost of premiums exceeds the car’s value, comprehensive insurance may not be worth it. On the other hand, if the cost of premiums is low compared to the car’s value, comprehensive insurance may be something to think about.
Compare over 200 auto insurance companies at once!
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Leslie Kasperowicz
Farmers CSR for 4 Years
Leslie Kasperowicz holds a BA in Social Sciences from the University of Winnipeg. She spent several years as a Farmers Insurance CSR, gaining a solid understanding of insurance products including home, life, auto, and commercial and working directly with insurance customers to understand their needs. She has since used that knowledge in her more than ten years as a writer, largely in the insurance...
Farmers CSR for 4 Years
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.