Comp and collision
What does comprehensive cover?
This coverage helps cover damage to your car that’s not a result of a collision. This is sometimes referred to as “other than collision” coverage.
For example, Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your car if it is stolen, or damaged by flood, fire, animals and falling objects like hail or trees. It also covers glass only claims. At Elephant, we even offer free windshield chip repair in cases where your deductible wouldn’t apply!*
Your deductible will apply. The comprehensive deductible options range from “no deductible” to $1000 (IL also has a $2500 option).
What does collision cover?
This covers damage to your car when you collide with another vehicle or object. If you hit a car, a pole or another nonliving object, collision coverage will apply. Your deductible will apply. The collision deductible options range from $50 to $2500.
When should I add comprehensive/ “other than collision” and collision?
Generally, if you’re financing or leasing a vehicle, these coverages are required by the lender. Legally, only liability is required even for financed vehicles and in some states, liability isn’t even required. We highly suggest having these coverages because the lienholder or lessor may require these coverages. They are otherwise optional.
While no state requires comprehensive and collision coverage, you may want to consider the following when choosing this coverage:
The value of your car
Is your car a newer model? If so, paying for repairs or replacements can get expensive.
Your environment
Are you at higher risk of vehicle damage (floods, wildfires, vandalism, etc.) than other areas?
Your financial situation
Would you be able to cover the cost of an accident or incident out-of-pocket?
Your risk of accident
How often do you drive your car? How long is your commute? The more you drive, the higher your risk of an accident.
*Subject to limitations. Chip or crack must be no bigger than a quarter or silver dollar and cannot be in the driver’s line of vision. Damage large than this size would require replacing the entire windshield, in which case your deductible would apply.