Car insurance can be tricky. It can be difficult enough choosing the right plan, let alone fully understanding what your coverage pays for. At Aposhian, we want to make sure you understand the types of situations that will likely be covered by insurance and won't leave you with a hefty bill at the garage.
What happens when your car breaks down?
According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, routine maintenance, such as an oil change, is usually not covered by car insurance. Even if your car experiences a mechanical failure or a blown engine, you will be responsible for payment.
What if your car is damaged in an accident?
Car insurance comes with the option of collision coverage. Unless you're leasing or financing a car, you won't be required to carry it. But you'd definitely want to think twice before making such a decision.
Having collision coverage can make a big difference in the event you're in an auto accident. Whether you're in an accident with another vehicle or an object—like a tree—this coverage can help pay for your repairs. It might also pay for body damage or mechanical issues sustained as a result of hitting a pothole.
What about non-accident repairs?
With comprehensive coverage, you may get help paying for damage unrelated to an accident. The types of damage-causing events that fall under comprehensive coverage include:
- Fire
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Natural disasters
- Falling objects
- Animal damage
Also, in the event that your car is completely totaled, comprehensive coverage will pay up to the cash value of what your vehicle was worth at the time of the accident. Just like collision coverage, comprehensive is entirely optional, which means you'll have to decide whether or not you'll want to carry it and at what deductible.
Take it from us, though. It's worth it.
Does insurance cover a rental?
On its own, car insurance does not pay for the costs of a rental car. However, there is rental reimbursement coverage, which helps to pay for the cost of a rental car or other transportation following a covered claim.
This is sometimes called rental car coverage and is also an optional form of coverage that has limits, just like collision and comprehensive.
Are there other options when it comes to protecting your car?
Luckily, there are additional protections you can make when it comes to your car. One such protection is a car warranty. These often come with new vehicles and help to pay for certain mechanical breakdowns. They will also typically cover certain parts and other issues for a specified amount of time or once the car reaches a specific mileage.
Roadside assistance programs, such as AAA, are also another option to consider. These programs typically offer jump starts for dead batteries, flat-tire changes, towing, and other services. You can usually get these services as part of a membership, through your car insurance coverage, or on an as-needed basis.
Now that you have a better understanding of the different protection options that are out there, you'll be able to make wiser decisions when it comes to protecting your car in the future.
When using Aposhian Garage, you have not only had your Subaru properly maintained, but you have also found your Subaru repair “home.”
We look forward to getting to know you and your vehicle!
