In most states, anyone who operates a vehicle is legally obligated to carry auto insurance. However, several kinds of coverage provide protection far beyond minimum requirements. By carefully exploring your options, you can avoid gaps in your policy that could cause financial trouble. Here’s what you should know about five common types of coverage.

A Guide to Auto Insurance Options

1. Liability 

At minimum, most states require liability insurance. Liability covers bodily injury and damage to personal property. If you’re found at fault for an accident, it pays for the other party’s medical expenses and repair bills. It will also cover your legal fees if a lawsuit is brought against you. 

2. Collision 

Unless you lease or finance your vehicle, collision is optional auto insurance. It’s designed to pay to repair or replace your car if you’re in an accident with another vehicle or hit a tree, building, or fence. You’ll also have coverage for single-vehicle rollovers and damage caused by hitting a pothole.

3. Comprehensive 

Like collision coverage, comprehensive is required only if your car is leased or financed. It will pay for losses due to an incident other than an accident with another vehicle, including loss from theft, vandalism, fire, inclement weather, and impacts with an animal. 

4. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist

Many drivers navigate the roadways without adequate auto insurance. Should you get hit by one of these drivers, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage will provide the funds you need to take care of your medical costs and repair or replace your vehicle. 

5. Medical Payments & Personal Injury Protection

Medical payments insurance is often used to supplement or act as a substitute for regular health insurance plans. It pays for any medical bills you or your passengers receive as the result of an accident. Personal injury protection is similar, but it also provides reimbursement for lost income.

Whether it’s your first time shopping for auto insurance or you need to renew your current policy, rely on our team at Farmers Insurance Group to walk you through the process. We understand that finding the right coverage for your needs and budget can be complicated. Our agents are available to help customize a policy to suit your unique situation. Backed by more than 15 years of experience, we’re proud to provide the residents of the Ozarks with quality protection and superior customer service. Call us today at (417) 926-7900 to request a quote, or visit us on Facebook for more information about our agency.