Auto coverage, decoded
What the lines on a quote mean, so you can compare two quotes on the same terms. Each coverage type has its own guide.
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Get StartedLiability coverage
Pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others. It's the part of a policy most states require, and the minimums are often lower than what would actually protect you in a serious accident.
- Bodily injury liability (per person / per accident)
- Property damage liability
- Limits shown as three numbers, e.g. 50/100/50
Collision coverage
Pays to repair or replace your own car after a crash with another vehicle or object, regardless of fault, minus your deductible.
- Applies to single-car accidents too
- Deductible typically $250 to $1,000
- Usually required if the car is financed or leased
Comprehensive coverage
Covers damage to your car from things other than a collision, theft, vandalism, hail, flood, fire, falling objects and animal strikes.
- Separate deductible from collision
- Glass coverage is sometimes included or added
- Often paired with collision as "full coverage"
Uninsured / underinsured motorist
Protects you if you're hit by a driver with no insurance or not enough of it. Can cover injuries and, in some states, vehicle damage.
- UM bodily injury and UM property damage
- Underinsured (UIM) fills the gap above the other driver's limits
- Sometimes includes hit-and-run
Medical payments / PIP
Pays medical expenses for you and your passengers after an accident, regardless of fault. Personal injury protection (PIP) may also cover lost wages in no-fault states.
- MedPay is usually a small, inexpensive limit
- PIP is required in no-fault states
- Coordinates with health insurance
Common extras
Small additions that can matter a lot on a bad day. Ask each partner what's included and what each one costs.
- Roadside assistance and towing
- Rental car reimbursement
- Gap coverage for financed vehicles
- New-car replacement, accident forgiveness
At a glance
Every line on a quote, in one table
| Coverage | What it pays for | Required? | Deductible |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liability (BI/PD) | Injuries and property damage you cause to others | Required in most states | None, limits apply |
| Collision | Damage to your car from a crash, any fault | Optional; lenders require | Typically $250 to $1,000 |
| Comprehensive | Theft, weather, animals, glass, fire, vandalism | Optional; lenders require | Often lower than collision |
| Uninsured / underinsured motorist | Your injuries when the other driver has no or too little insurance | Required in some states | Usually none |
| Medical payments / PIP | Medical bills for you and passengers regardless of fault | PIP required in no-fault states | Sometimes, by state |
| Gap | Difference between loan balance and actual cash value | Optional | None |
| Rental reimbursement | A rental car while yours is repaired after a covered claim | Optional | Daily limit / max days |
| Roadside assistance | Towing, jump-start, lockout, flat tire | Optional | Per-event limits |
"Required" reflects common state rules and lender practices and varies by state; confirm with a licensed partner.
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Coverage basics from the blog
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