Comprehensive auto insurance coverage is aptly named – it covers any type of damage your vehicle could suffer that isn’t caused by a collision (which is covered under your collision coverage and which is not excluded by your policy. Some examples include:
- Severe weather (hail, high winds, storm damage, etc.)
- Natural Disaster (flood, earthquake, etc.)
- Fire and explosions
- Malicious damage (vandalism, theft, rioting, etc.)
- Flying or falling objects
- Windshield damage
- Collision with an animal (which is not typically covered under standard collision coverage)
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While drivers are required by law to carry liability insurance in the state of California, comprehensive insurance is optional. However, if you are financing or are leasing your vehicle, your lender will likely require that you purchase comprehensive and collision insurance.
If you are not under the authority of a lender, should you get comprehensive coverage? Largely, this depends on your vehicle and the amount of coverage you desire to carry. Because of its far-reaching claim coverage, in some areas comprehensive auto insurance is the most expensive insurance you can buy for your car. If your car is an older model or if it is not worth very much, the premium, while reduced, when coupled with the deductible, may be more than the perceived benefit. You should also note that comprehensive coverage does not cover claims from neglect or lack of repair to  the vehicle.
This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.
