Collision coverage is one of the many coverages available for drivers under their auto insurance policy, although there is some confusion when it comes to this insurance. Many people mistakenly believe that comprehensive coverage covers collision with another vehicle or object.

While comprehensive and collision coverages often come hand in hand, they cover different things. Comprehensive coverage covers damages to your vehicle caused by fire, wind, hail, lightning, smoke, theft, vandalism and other incidents aside from collision.

Collision coverage specifically covers damages to your vehicle caused by a collision with another vehicle or object. For example, if you hit a curb or side swipe a vehicle, collision coverage can provide compensation for repairs.

Does Collision Coverage Cover Collisions with Uninsured Drivers?

The one exception to collision coverage is when you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. In this case, you will need uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This insurance covers property damage caused by a collision involving another driver who is not carrying the proper amount of insurance to cover the damages.

Does Collision Coverage Cover Liability?

In some cases, an accident may be declared your fault—in which you cause a collision with another driver or vehicle. Keep in mind that collision coverage only covers damages to your vehicle. It does not cover damages you may cause to someone else’s property.

Liability insurance is separate and is geared to cover bodily injury and property damage you may cause to someone else while operating your insured vehicle.

Do Full Coverage Auto Insurance Policies Include Collision Coverage?

Full coverage auto insurance is not a set type of policy. Instead, it simply refers to the highest amount of coverage you can have on a single vehicle. In general, full coverage auto insurance policies do include collision coverage as well as:

• Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive coverage provides compensation for damages to your vehicle caused by fir, wind, hail, lightning, smoke, theft, vandalism and other incidents not involving collision. This does not cover bodily injury.
• Liability: Liability auto insurance covers bodily injury and property damage you may cause someone else while operating the insured vehicle.
• Medical Payments Coverage: Medical payments coverage covers medical bills you and your passengers may face after an accident, no matter who caused the accident. This includes accidents involving collisions.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This insurance covers damages to the vehicle that occur in an accident involving another driver who is not carrying insurance.