Auto insurance is a crucial cornerstone of financial planning, in part because it's required by state law, but also because it protects your assets if an unfortunate incident should occur. Below, Allegheny Insurance Services, an independent agency in Elkins, WV, discusses some of the most important types of car insurance coverage.

5 Types of Auto Insurance Coverage & What They Do

1. Liability Insurance

Liability insurance pays for medical treatment and repairs if you accidentally injure someone or damage their property. It also covers legal fees arising out of the incident. Liability auto insurance coverage is required in almost every state. For instance, West Virginia requires at least $20,000 in bodily injury coverage per injured person with a per-accident maximum of $40,000, as well as an additional $20,000 of personal property liability.

2. Collision Coverage

Collision coverage pays to repair your vehicle, even if you are at fault in an accident. As the name implies, it covers only collision-related damages, and it is essential in a snowy, mountainous state like West Virginia.

3. Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage protects against non-collision damages, such as fire, floods, vandalism, and other perils. It also covers theft of the vehicle and, in some cases, items inside of the car.

4. Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist Coverage

If you are in an accident and the at-fault driver has no insurance or low insurance limits that do not cover the extent of damages to your vehicle, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage will bridge the gap. These types of coverage come standard with some policies, but with others you may have to pay extra.

5. Roadside Assistance Coverage

Roadside assistance covers towing and much more. For instance, if you find yourself locked out of your vehicle, roadside assistance can provide lockout services. It also includes fuel delivery, flat tire repair, and jump-start services to ensure you’re never stranded. 

Auto insurance protects you against the many hazards listed above and gives you peace of mind that you're covered in case the worst happens. To see if you can lower your rates or improve your coverage, contact Allegheny Insurance Services in Elkins, WV. This independent agency also specializes in business, life, and homeowners insurance, and has been helping businesses and individuals throughout Randolph County and beyond protect their assets for more than 100 years.  Visit their website to view location details or call (304) 636-1680 to request an insurance quote.