How Much Car Insurance Do You Need?

The amount of car insurance you require will depend on several factors. The value of your car, whether your vehicle is financed or you own it, the age and type of car you own, and the state you reside in will all factor in deciding how much insurance you need. Another reason you might require more insurance is if your car has enhancements added that were not put on when the car was manufactured.

If your vehicle is new and in top condition, full coverage insurance is the best bet if you own it outright. This will cover the cost of providing the money to purchase another car in the same condition should you be in an accident that totals your car. Most finance companies require you to carry full coverage insurance. They like to make sure they will get the amount they lent for the purchase of a car back should it be totaled in an accident. If you own an older car, liability coverage is the best way to go. This insurance will prevent you from being sued in the event of an accident that is your fault and there are injuries that need to be compensated. It is a good idea to carry more than is recommended because, in the event of an accident with injuries to the other person, the minimum might not cover all of their injuries and, if not, they will likely come after you to collect the remainder. There are only 4 states at the present that do not require any type of insurance.

If you have had anything added to your vehicle, such as stereo systems or expensive wheels, you should add insurance to cover these add-ons in case of theft. Comprehensive insurance is usually required by finance companies and covers a variety of damages such as wind damage, falling objects, fire, flood, etc. If you are an antique car buff, you will want to insure your car to cover the replacement value. Using your car for business might require that you carry more insurance than you typically would. Basically, the price and the amount of coverage that you carry will be governed by the insurance requirements for the state you reside in and whether you want or feel you need extra insurance above what is required for your vehicle type. It is best to find out what requirements your state has and what you expect to be compensated for in the event of an accident.

According to car crash statistics there were 6,420,000 auto accidents in the U.S. in 2005 with a financial cost of 230 billion dollars. Nationally, a vehicle theft occurs every 27 seconds.