Auto insurance has three core coverage types. Knowing what each covers helps you build the right policy for your needs and budget.
Liability
Pays for damage and injuries you cause to others. Required by California law — see minimum requirements. Liability does not cover your own vehicle.
Collision
Pays for damage to your own vehicle from a collision, regardless of fault, minus your deductible. This is your primary path to repairing your car after an accident, including when the at-fault driver is uninsured (see uninsured drivers).
Comprehensive
Pays for non-collision damage: theft, vandalism, fire, weather, falling objects, and animal strikes. Many lenders require both collision and comprehensive if you finance or lease your vehicle.
How deductibles apply
Collision and comprehensive each have their own deductible — the amount you pay before insurance covers the rest. See deductibles explained for choosing the right amount.
