What Car Insurance Coverage Plan Protects Against Theft?

Car Insurance Coverage Plan Protects Against Theft?

Car insurance comes in many different forms and each one is very specific as to what it does and doesn't cover. When it comes to theft of your vehicle there is only one possible type of insurance that will cover this. Comprehensive coverage is the only one of the different types that specifically covers your car in case of theft. This is because comprehensive insurance is in place to protect your car from damages that aren't due to an accident. Theft is almost always one of the items listed as damage to a car not caused by a collision.
If you have basic car insurance you're probably not covered against theft. Each state has a minimum amount of insurance you must have in order to legally drive your car. This type of insurance only covers the damage that is done by an accident that you cause. If you think about it this makes sense. In every accident someone is found to be at fault, so if you didn't cause the accident you'll be covered by the driver who did. In the case of theft, the person responsible will either be caught and put in jail, or will stay on the loose with no one to sue. If you were expecting your basic coverage to pay for your stolen car, you'll be sadly disappointed.
Most car insurance salespeople will try to up-sell you into a comprehensive plan. These plans are usually more expensive than liability or collision insurance because they cover things that typically cost more to fix. For example, most accidents don't total a car, they're just fender benders that require a few hundred dollars or more in repairs. If someone steals your car and you file a claim on your comprehensive insurance plan, your insurance company is going to have to buy you a car of similar value or higher. This will mean thousands of dollars just to settle one claim. These comprehensive plans also cover damage done to your car from things like falling trees, falling hail, windblown debris, flooding, and more. All of these damages can mean thousands of dollars in repairs, which is why it's more expensive to have comprehensive insurance.
If you are very concerned that your car is going to get stolen, it might be worth the peace of mind that comes with a comprehensive plan. You might also be able to get a standalone theft policy that will cost less than getting an entire comprehensive plan. It's always best to shop around and find out which car insurance company offers theft insurance at the lowest possible rate. Get several quotes before you settle on the provider you think is best in this situation.