Comprehensive insurance for a car is an optional coverage that helps pay to replace or repair your vehicle if its stolen or damaged in an incident thats not a collision. Comprehensive coverage is also known as "other than collision" coverage, and it typically covers damage from fire, vandalism, or falling objects like a tree or hail. Comprehensive coverage can also protect you against minor and major damages caused by things beyond your control, regardless of whatever coverage you may have that extends to accidents.

Comprehensive coverage is different from collision coverage, which helps pay to repair your car if its damaged in a collision with another vehicle or object, such as a fence. Collision coverage comes into play because a driver gets into a car accident. Comprehensive coverage and collision coverage can be used to help repair the damages caused to your vehicle in an accident. Both coverages have a deductible you are responsible for paying before the coverage starts covering the damage.

Comprehensive coverage is optional if you own your vehicle outright, but if youre financing or leasing your car, your lender likely requires comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive coverage can be used no matter whos at fault and helps pay for repairs over your deductible, so youre not stuck paying the entire bill on your own.

Examples of incidents that comprehensive coverage typically covers include:

• Theft
• Falling objects
• Fire
• Natural disasters
• Animal damage
• Civil disturbances
• Vandalism

Its important to note that comprehensive insurance doesnt cover damage caused by a collision. It may not be necessary to have comprehensive coverage for an older car with high mileage. Comprehensive insurance doesnt cover anything personal stolen from your car, and it doesnt cover damage due to potholes.

In summary, comprehensive insurance for a car is an optional coverage that helps pay to replace or repair your vehicle if its stolen or damaged in an incident thats not a collision. It covers a wide range of incidents, including theft, fire, and natural disasters, but it doesnt cover damage caused by a collision. If youre financing or leasing your car, your lender likely requires comprehensive coverage.