When you purchase an auto insurance policy, you will have both mandated and optional coverage. Mandated coverage includes liability property damage and liability bodily injury coverage. This type of coverage is currently required by law in every state. In some states, you will also be required to carry uninsured/underinsured bodily injury coverage. All other types of coverage are considered optional and you will need to either accept or decline these types of coverage. Below you can learn more about three of the options which you should seriously consider accepting. 

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Property Damage Coverage

While some states do require you to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage, adding property damage coverage in this category remains optional in every state. The reason why it is so important for you to have this type of coverage is that if you are hit by a driver with no insurance or inadequate insurance, you could be stuck paying for repairs to your vehicle out of your own pocket. While you can seek reimbursement for these expenses through a lawsuit, this process can be long and may not produce any tangible results. With uninsured/underinsured motorist property damage coverage, you will be able to simply file a claim for damages with your own insurance company. 

Collision Coverage

Many people simply assume that their insurance will cover the cost of damages to their vehicle regardless of who is at fault for causing the accident. However, the truth is that this is not the case unless you have both liability and collision coverage. The reason for this is that liability coverage is only designed to pay for damages you do to someone else's vehicle. If damage is done to your own vehicle as the result of you hitting another vehicle, you will need to have collision coverage in order to file a claim for these damages. Collision coverage will also provide you with coverage for damages that result from a single-car accident such as striking a phone pole or mailbox. 

Comprehensive Coverage

Most types of auto insurance coverage are designed to protect you financially in the event of an accident. However, an accident represents just one of the many ways in which your vehicle can suffer damage. For example, your vehicle could be damaged by severe weather or vandalism. Comprehensive auto insurance coverage provides you with protection for these types of situations. Comprehensive coverage often includes theft and glass coverage as well. 

For more information on auto insurance coverage, contact a professional near you.

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