Auto Insurance FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Auto Insurance

Can you explain the types of auto insurance coverage available?

Below we cover some of the commonly used auto insurance terms. Terms and coverage offerings can vary by provider. For more specific answers or definitions that aren't covered here, please talk to the auto insurer directly.

Bodily Injury Liability: If the insured person is found legally liable for an accident, Bodily Injury Liability (BIL) pays for costs related to other people's bodily injuries or death. It also provides for legal defense costs if you are sued. BIL covers injury to other people, not to yourself and not to your car. This coverage is mandatory in most states. Coverage is limited to the terms and conditions contained in the policy.

Property Damage Liability: If the insured person is found legally liable for an accident, Property Damage Liability (PDL) pays for damage to others' property resulting from the accident. Usually this property is their car, but it could be a house or other property damaged in the accident. PDL also pays for legal defense costs if you are sued. Coverage is limited to the terms and conditions contained in the policy.

Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist Coverage: If the insured person or their passenger(s) is injured in an accident caused by a driver with no auto insurance coverage or insufficient auto insurance coverage, Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UUMC) will pay for medical expenses and other general damages. UUMC may also pay for injuries that occur in a hit-and-run accident. Coverage is limited to the terms and conditions contained in the policy.

Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist Property Damage Coverage: If the driver or owner of a vehicle is legally liable for an accident but does not have insurance or does not have enough insurance, UUMP will pay for damage to your insured vehicle. Coverage is limited to the terms and conditions contained in the policy.

Comprehensive Coverage: If the insured vehicle is damaged due to an event other than a collision, Comprehensive Coverage (CC) will pay for the damage. For example, CC covers damage to your car if it's damaged by flood, fire, etc. If your vehicle is stolen, CC usually pays for transportation and loss-of-use expenses. CC pays to fix your car less the deductible you select. Coverage is limited to the terms and conditions contained in the policy.

Collision Coverage: If the insured vehicle hits or is hit by another vehicle or object, Collision Coverage pays for the damage to your vehicle. This coverage may also extend to a rented or non-owned vehicle that the insured is using. Collision Coverage pays to fix your car less the deductible you select. Coverage is limited to the terms and conditions contained in the policy.

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