There are many different types of auto insurance policies in California. Some policies offer comprehensive coverage, whereas others offer collision or liability coverage. These terms are confusing, so it’s hard to understand exactly how each policy protects you. Many drivers end up choosing full coverage insurance, since they assume that it will fully cover anything that happens on the road. But what is full coverage? Is it really enough for drivers in Bakersfield?
What Does Full Coverage Insurance Actually Cover?
Full coverage is not the name of an actual insurance policy, but rather a term used to describe a policy that includes:
- Liability insurance: This insurance will protect you in the event you are responsible for causing an accident with another vehicle. It will cover the costs associated with the victims’ property damage and injuries.
- Collision insurance: This type of insurance will also protect you if you are the at-fault driver. It will cover the cost of repairing damage to your vehicle that was caused by the accident.
- Comprehensive insurance: This insurance covers damage to your vehicle that was not caused by an accident (theft, fire, etc.).
The definition of full coverage can vary depending on the insurance provider, but these are the three types of coverage that are typically included in a full coverage policy.
Is Full Coverage Enough to Protect Drivers in Bakersfield?
Despite its name, full coverage insurance does not always cover everything that could happen to you or your vehicle. For example, full coverage insurance typically does not include uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This means if you are injured in an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver, you won’t have insurance to cover your medical bills and property damage. It’s estimated that about 15% of drivers in California are uninsured, so it’s best for drivers to have this coverage.
Medical payments coverage is usually not included in full coverage policies, either. This insurance will cover medical expenses for you or your passengers after an accident regardless of who was at fault. Having this coverage helps car accident victims quickly get the money they need to obtain treatment and pay their medical bills.
Full coverage also does not include insurance that will cover towing, road service, or rental car expenses. Without this coverage, you may have to cover these expenses on your own after an accident.
Full coverage does offer a great deal of protection, but drivers must obtain additional types of coverage if they truly want to be fully covered on the road.
Have you been in a car accident in Bakersfield? If so, seek legal representation from experienced attorney Martin Gasparian as soon as possible. Mr. Gasparian will aggressively negotiate with the insurance companies to ensure you are fully compensated after a crash. Schedule a free consultation regarding your case by calling 559-203-3333 or submitting your information at MaisonLaw.com.
