What Is Comprehensive Coverage in Auto Insurance?

The Coverage You Need for Life’s Unexpected Twists

Accidents aren’t the only way your car can take a hit. Think: hailstorms, falling trees, theft, or even a mischievous raccoon chewing through your wiring (yes, that happens). That’s where comprehensive coverage shines it protects your car from non-collision damage that’s totally out of your control.

At OnePoint Insurance Agency, we help drivers in Georgia, Florida, Texas, Illinois, and beyond understand what’s under the hood of their policy minus the jargon.

What Comprehensive Insurance Covers

Also known as “other than collision” coverage, comprehensive insurance helps pay for your car’s repairs or replacement when bad stuff happens that’s not a crash.

Common Events Covered:

• Theft – Vehicle stolen? You’re covered for the value.

• Vandalism – Broken windows, graffiti, slashed tires.

• Weather Damage – Hail, wind, lightning, floods.

• Fire – Whether spontaneous or accident-related.

• Falling Objects – Tree limbs, roof tiles, storm debris.

• Natural Disasters – Hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes.

• Animal Collisions – Deer, raccoons, etc.

• Glass Damage – Windshield cracks or shattered windows.

Benefits:

• Covers high-cost, out-of-your-control events

• Often required by lenders for leased or financed vehicles

• Offers peace of mind if you live in stormy or high-theft areas

What Comprehensive Doesn’t Cover

Comprehensive coverage is powerful but it has its limits.

• Collision Damage – If you hit a car or object, that’s for collision insurance.

• Medical Expenses – Use PIP or MedPay for injuries.

• Wear & Tear – Rust, blown engines, or old parts aren’t included.

• Personal Items Stolen From Your Car – Covered by homeowners or renters insurance.

• Costs Beyond the Car’s Value – Most policies cap payouts at your vehicle’s actual cash value (ACV) minus your deductible.

Pro tip: Want lower out-of-pocket risk? Go with a lower deductible or bundle with collision coverage.

Who Should Consider Comprehensive Insurance?

While it’s not legally required by your state, comprehensive coverage makes sense for a lot of people.

It’s ideal for:

• Drivers with new or valuable vehicles
  → If replacing your car would hurt your wallet, this is a must.

• Storm-prone locations
  → Georgia storms, Florida hurricanes, Texas hail? Say less.

• Urban residents
  → Higher risk of theft and vandalism means more need for protection.

• Leased or financed vehicles
  → Lenders almost always require it.

• Street parkers
  → No garage? You’re exposed to a world of unpredictable risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is comprehensive insurance required by law?

Nope. But it’s commonly required by lenders or leasing companies and smart to carry even if it’s optional.

What’s the difference between comprehensive and collision coverage?

• Comprehensive = non-crash damage (theft, fire, weather, animals)

• Collision = crash-related damage (hitting another car or object)

Does comprehensive cover personal items stolen from my car?

No. It covers the vehicle—not items inside. For that, use your homeowners or renters policy.

Does it cover windshield damage?

Yes, in most cases. Some policies also let you add a full glass rider, which covers windshield repairs or replacements with little or no deductible.

How OnePoint Can Help

At OnePoint Insurance Agency, we don’t just sell policies we customize protection that fits your life, your vehicle, and your budget.

Because we’re independent, we compare rates from multiple top-rated carriers to get you the right mix of coverage and value.

Our licensed experts help you:

• Understand how much coverage you need

• Choose smart deductibles

• Add riders like glass or rental reimbursement

• Bundle policies for savings

We keep it local, honest, and transparent. That’s the OnePoint difference.

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