Benefits of a Comprehensive Auto Policy

The Texas Department of Transportation reported more than half a million accidents in 2022.¹ While liability and collision insurance covers accidents, they don’t cover all damage. A comprehensive policy covers repairs for unexpected events, like theft or storm damage. Learn more about auto insurance and the benefits of a comprehensive auto policy.

How Much Coverage is Required?

All drivers in Texas must show proof of liability insurance to cover other drivers in an accident. If you are liable for the accident, liability insurance covers claims that the other driver might make for repairs or medical expenses. It helps to avoid a lawsuit, but you would pay out-of-pocket for your expenses in an accident.

Differences Between Collision and Comprehensive Coverage

Collision insurance covers repairs or the replacement of your own vehicle after an accident. It also covers damage from potholes, hit-and-run collisions, and single-vehicle accidents, like hitting a guardrail or telephone pole.

Collision insurance provides peace of mind so that you don’t have to pay out-of-pocket for repairs after an accident. However, it doesn’t cover other unexpected events, like theft, vandalism, or damage by fire or flood. For full coverage, you’ll need liability, collision, and a comprehensive policy.

Benefits of Comprehensive Coverage

When you get a new auto loan or lease a vehicle, the lender may require full coverage, which includes a comprehensive policy. Even if you pay cash for a new vehicle, having comprehensive coverage is wise since repairs are more expensive for newer vehicles. Comprehensive policies cover several types of damage:

• vandalism and theft, including theft of vehicle parts
• natural disasters, like tornadoes, floods, and hurricanes
• fire or explosions
• hitting an animal
• broken windshields
• fallen objects, like branches, rocks, or hail

Comprehensive coverage reimburses you for repairs up to the cash value of your car, minus the deductible, which can range from $500 to $2,000. In Texas the average comprehensive policy is $1,800 per year, or $150 per month.² Most offer flexibility in coverage and deductibles, so you can adjust as the car’s value decreases.

Comprehensive coverage saves money not only in repairs, but for other services. Some policies offer roadside assistance, towing, and rental reimbursement. They may also guarantee repairs if you use their recommended repair shop.

Find Comprehensive Coverage with Texell Insurance

If you are looking for comprehensive or other auto policies, our Texell Insurance agents are ready to help. As independent agents, we can shop several insurance carriers to find the policy that fits your needs. Contact an agent today at texellinsurance@texell.org or call 254.774.5181.

¹ Texas Motor Vehicle Traffic Crash Facts from ftp.txdot.gov.
² Average costs compiled by Texell Financial, LLC. Texell Financial, LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Texell Credit Union. Insurance products are not issued, guaranteed, or underwritten by Texell Credit Union or Texell Financial LLC and are not insured by the NCUA.

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