Every driver in California, as well as most other states, knows they must carry at least the minimum mandates auto insurance coverage. Sadly, there are some who choose to ignore this and drive without insurance. But for the majority who choose to be responsible drivers, there is an automobile policy somewhere in their filing cabinet.
Instead of just tucking away that policy, why not take a look at it? Sometimes, insurance-speak can be confusing, so here are some basic auto insurance terms you should be familiar with:
Adjuster – A person who investigates and settles insurance claims.
Binder – A temporary insurance contract that provides proof of coverage until you receive a permanent policy.
Collision coverage – Pays for damage to your car without regard to who caused an accident. The company must pay for the repair or up to the actual cash value of your vehicle, minus your deductible.
Comprehensive coverage (physical damage other than collision) – Pays for damage to or loss of your automobile from causes other than accidents. These include hail, vandalism, flood, fire, and theft.
Liability insurance – Pays for injuries to the other party and damages to the other vehicle resulting from an accident you caused. It also pays if the accident was caused by someone covered by your policy, including a driver operating your car with your permission.
Liability limits – The maximum amount your liability policy will pay. Your policy must pay at least $15,000 for each injured person, up to a total of $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 for property damage per accident (unless you have a Low Cost Auto Policy). This basic coverage is called “15/30/5” coverage.
Medical payments and personal injury protection (PIP) – Both pay limited medical and funeral expenses if you, a family member, or a passenger in your car is injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident. PIP also pays lost-income benefits.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage – Pays for your injuries and property damage caused by a hit-and-run driver or a motorist without liability insurance. It will also pay when your medical and car repair bills are higher than the other driver´s liability coverage.
Why not take a few minutes to sit down with your insurance professional to make sure you understand exactly what you are covered for and what you are not? Better now that when you need to file a claim. Don’t be caught short when you need your auto insurance the most.