Full coverage car insurance is a term often used to describe a combination of various types of auto insurance that provide extensive protection for drivers in Ohio. Understanding what full coverage entails is crucial for making informed decisions about your car insurance policy.
What Full Coverage Car Insurance Covers
In Ohio, full coverage car insurance typically includes a blend of liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage.
1. Liability Coverage: This is mandatory in Ohio. Liability coverage includes both bodily injury and property damage liability. It protects you if you are found at fault in an accident, covering medical expenses and property repairs for the other party involved. The required minimum limits in Ohio are 25/50/25, which means $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
2. Collision Coverage: Collision coverage pays for damage to your vehicle following a collision with another vehicle or an object, regardless of fault. This means if you hit a tree or another car, your insurance will cover the repair costs after you pay your deductible, ensuring you do not bear the full burden of the repair expenses.
3. Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive coverage protects against non-collision related damages such as theft, vandalism, natural disasters, and animal collisions. It covers the repair or replacement of your vehicle, minus your deductible. This type of coverage is particularly beneficial in Ohio, where severe weather can damage vehicles.
What Full Coverage Car Insurance Doesn’t Cover
While full coverage offers extensive protection, there are notable exclusions that drivers in Ohio should be aware of:
1. Routine Maintenance and Wear: Full coverage does not cover regular maintenance costs like oil changes, tire rotations, or any wear and tear on your vehicle from everyday use.
2. Medical Expenses: Unless you have specific medical coverage, injuries sustained by you or your passengers in an accident may not be fully covered under liability or comprehensive policies. Ohio drivers might want to consider adding Personal Injury Protection (PIP) for additional medical coverage.
3. Rental Car Costs: Full coverage may not include the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired. You may need to purchase rental reimbursement coverage separately to cover this expense.
4. Mechanical Failures: Mechanical breakdowns or specific failures, such as transmission or engine failure, are not covered by full coverage car insurance. Drivers should budget for potential repairs or consider extended warranties for added protection.
5. Accidents While Driving Under the Influence: If you’re involved in an accident while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, your insurer may deny coverage based on policy exclusions related to illegal activities.
Important Considerations
It’s important for Ohio drivers to shop around and understand the specifics of their car insurance policies. Different insurance companies may have varying interpretations of full coverage. Consider asking about optional add-ons that could enhance your protection, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or roadside assistance.
Conclusion: Full coverage car insurance in Ohio can offer significant protection against a variety of risks, but it’s essential to know precisely what it covers and what it doesn’t. By understanding these details, you can make the best choices for your financial security and peace of mind on the road.
