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Compare coverage types

The same six coverage types show up on nearly every US auto policy — here's how they stack up against each other.

How this table is built.
  • Coverage limits, not just price
  • Deductible options available
  • Claims handling reputation signals available publicly
  • Discounts genuinely available for the coverage
Coverage TypeWhat It CoversTypical Cost DriverWho Needs It
LiabilityInjury or damage you cause to othersDriving record, location, limits chosenEvery driver — required in nearly every US state
CollisionYour own vehicle after any accident, regardless of faultVehicle value, deductible chosenFinanced or leased vehicles, or owners who couldn't easily replace the car
ComprehensiveNon-collision damage: theft, weather, fire, animal strikesVehicle value, location risk (theft/weather)Same as collision, especially in high-theft or severe-weather areas
Uninsured motoristYour injuries and damage when the at-fault driver lacks adequate insuranceState minimums nearby, personal risk toleranceNearly everyone, given how many drivers carry only state minimums
Gap insuranceThe difference between your loan balance and the car's actual cash value if totaledLoan-to-value ratio, how new the loan isAnyone financing or leasing a vehicle, especially in the first two years
Roadside assistance / rental reimbursementTowing, lockouts, breakdowns, or a rental car while yours is repairedAdd-on cost, usage frequencyDrivers without a separate roadside plan, or anyone who'd need a rental during repairs

This table describes coverage categories generally — it can't tell you the exact price, exclusions or claims experience of any specific insurer, since those vary by company and by state.

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