#autoinsuranceexplained

Car Insurance matters - horrible, huh?  LOL.  Let us help a little bit with some general knowledge that might come in handy.

Your car insurance policy either 1.) settles claims against you for injuries and damages to others, or 2.) defends against these claims.

The liability component covers injuries and damages to others.  The limits set here are your coverages to protect you from being sued.  Virginia's minimum is only $25,000.  This is not NEARLY enough.  Get a minimum of $100,000.00 per person per occurrence.  If not, get the maximum you can afford.

Comprehensive is coverage for you.  This is your "full coverage" element that pays for your damages to your vehicle. You cannot make a personal injury claim against your own insurance, but comprehensive will pay for your car. Underinsured or Uninsured Motorist...very important. If someone injures you who is uninsured, your policy will make available funds to pay for your injuries.  This coverage mirrors your other policy limits - which is another reason to have the maximum you can afford.

Medical Payments Coverage.  This coverage is no-fault coverage that is very inexpensive and reimburses you for any out of pocket expenses related to medical treatment for injuries sustained in any auto accident.  It is "stackable" meaning that your coverage amount is multiplied by the number of autos on your policy (for example, say you have $5,000 in med-pay and you have 3 cars on the policy - BOOM.  $15,000.00 in coverage).  Med pay will reimburse you for medical bills paid, deductibles on insurance, medications, coinsurance and more.

Hope this helps!  Be safe out there!