You already know you can rely on your car insurance collision coverage to come through when your vehicle is damaged in an accident. Outside of a small deductible, your insurance could spare you thousands of dollars in repair or replacement costs. What you may not know, however, is the many ways car insurance can help you endure other unexpected losses and events. If you’ve never taken a look at the details of your insurance policy, you might be surprised to find out just how many extra benefits are included in many policies. Continue reading to find out which scenarios you could be covered for.
When You Need Emergency Fuel
Forget walking miles to the nearest service station on a cold, dark Minnesota night. Roadside assistance is included on many auto insurance policies and provides coverage for a bevy of services. In addition to fuel delivery, you might also be able to call upon your roadside assistance to help pay for a locksmith, towing service, or even help changing a flat tire.
When You Need a Rental Car after an Accident
Whether you are shopping for a new car after totaling your old one, or if your car just needs a week in the shop, rental car coverage can help pay for your emergency transportation expenses after an accident. Rental car coverage varies from company to company, but many insurers to pay for rental car expenses for a reasonable period of time – often up to 30 days – after the accident. Be aware that the coverage may be limited to a dollar amount per day, often enough to cover the cost of a sedan or small SUV.
When a Thief Steals the Stereo System from Your Car
There’s a bad apple in every bunch. Even if you activate your alarm and parking in a well-lit area, a thief may still be able to break into your vehicle and make off like a bandit. Personal belongings like your purse or laptop are likely covered under your homeowners or renters insurance. The permanent fixtures attached to your vehicle, however, may be included under your comprehensive insurance coverage. The same protection can also help cover the cost of replacing the window that was shattered or the lock that was broken during the break-in.
When a Hail Storm Pelts Your Vehicle in a Parking Lot
Mother Nature can be unforgiving, but your car insurance can help right her wrongs. Hail damage can be one of the most costly effects of a nasty storm, costing hundreds or even thousands of dollars in repair bills. As recently as June, hail the size of softballs fell in many areas throughout the state. Comprehensive coverage can take care of the expense, save for a deductible on your part.
When You’re Served with a Liability Lawsuit
This one is technically collision-related, although it has nothing to do with your own vehicle. If you are the one responsible for an accident, you are also the one responsible for the resulting damages. Although drivers in Minnesota are required to carry coverage that helps pay for their own medical expenses, it may be limited and insufficient to cover all of a victim’s costs. Add in the loss or damage of a vehicle, and it’s easy to see how a lawsuit can lead to tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages. You liability insurance can help foot the legal bills and judgments up to the limits you have chosen for your policy.
With the exception of limited liability protection, it is important to note that the above coverage types are not standard in a basic car insurance plan. Instead, you must select additional protection for collision, comprehensive damages, roadside assistance, and rental car coverage. If you think you may be missing out on one of these coverage enhancements, give us a call at the Andreotti Agency for an Oakdale car insurance quote. We look forward to serving you soon.