If you’ve ever shopped for auto insurance, you’ve probably heard the term “full coverage.” Many drivers assume it means they’re covered for anything that could happen to their vehicle.
The truth is, “full coverage” isn’t actually a type of insurance policy. It’s simply a term people use to describe a combination of coverages that help protect both you and your vehicle.
Understanding what full coverage really means can help you make better decisions about your insurance and avoid surprises after an accident.
What Is Full Coverage Auto Insurance?
While there is no official insurance policy called “full coverage,” the term usually refers to a policy that includes:
- Liability Coverage
- Comprehensive Coverage
- Collision Coverage
Together, these coverages provide protection for many common situations drivers face.
However, even a full coverage policy may not cover every possible loss.
Liability Coverage
Liability coverage helps pay for injuries or property damage you cause to others in an accident.
This coverage is required by law in most states, including Ohio.
Liability coverage generally includes:
Bodily Injury Liability
Helps pay for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Legal expenses
Property Damage Liability
Helps pay for:
- Vehicle repairs
- Buildings
- Fences
- Other damaged property
Many drivers carry only state minimum limits, but those limits may not be enough after a serious accident.
Collision Coverage
Collision coverage helps pay to repair or replace your vehicle after:
- Hitting another vehicle
- Hitting an object
- Rolling your vehicle
Coverage is subject to your deductible.
If your vehicle is financed or leased, your lender will typically require collision coverage.
Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle from losses that are not caused by a collision.
Examples include:
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Fire
- Hail damage
- Falling objects
- Animal strikes
Many Ohio drivers are surprised to learn that hitting a deer is generally considered a comprehensive claim rather than a collision claim.
What Full Coverage Doesn’t Automatically Include
This is where many misunderstandings occur.
Even if someone says they have full coverage, they may not have protection for:
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
This coverage can help if you’re injured by a driver who has little or no insurance.
Rental Reimbursement
Provides assistance with transportation expenses while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered claim.
Roadside Assistance
Can help with:
- Flat tires
- Dead batteries
- Lockouts
- Towing
Gap Coverage
Important for many newer vehicles.
Gap coverage may help pay the difference between what you owe on your loan and the actual cash value of your vehicle if it’s declared a total loss.
How Much Liability Coverage Should You Carry?
One of the biggest mistakes drivers make is focusing only on protecting their vehicle while carrying low liability limits.
Your liability coverage protects your income, savings, and future assets if you’re responsible for a serious accident.
Many drivers choose higher limits than the state minimum requirements to better protect themselves.
When Should You Review Your Auto Insurance?
You should review your policy whenever:
- You purchase a new vehicle
- You pay off a vehicle loan
- You add a driver
- Your driving habits change
- You move
- Your assets increase
A quick review can help identify gaps in coverage before a claim occurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is full coverage required in Ohio?
No. Liability insurance is required by law, but lenders often require collision and comprehensive coverage on financed vehicles.
Does full coverage cover mechanical breakdowns?
No. Auto insurance is designed to cover sudden and accidental losses, not normal wear and tear or mechanical failures.
Does full coverage include rental reimbursement?
Not automatically. Rental reimbursement is typically an optional coverage.
Does full coverage cover deer accidents?
In most cases, yes. Deer strikes are generally covered under comprehensive coverage.
Is state minimum coverage enough?
State minimum limits may satisfy legal requirements, but many drivers choose higher limits to better protect their assets and future income.
Protecting Drivers Across Ohio
McKinnon Insurance proudly helps drivers throughout Dover, New Philadelphia, Strasburg, Sugarcreek, Uhrichsville, Dennison, Bolivar, and communities across Ohio understand their auto insurance coverage and identify opportunities for better protection.
Final Thoughts
The term “full coverage” can be misleading because it means different things to different people.
The best way to understand what protection you actually have is to review your policy with an insurance professional. A few minutes today can help prevent costly surprises after an accident.
If you’d like a no-obligation coverage review, the team at McKinnon Insurance is here to help. Click here to get your quote
