Automobile insurance coverage

Insurers may consider your age, driving record, where you live, credit history, and other factors to decide if they will offer you coverage.

Here are brief descriptions of the available coverages:

Liability

Most states require liability coverage. This covers bodily injury and damage to property that you cause to others while using your car.

Personal injury protection

This covers a limited amount of medical and hospital costs, income continuation, funeral expenses, and loss of services. Coverage limits are defined in the policy.

Medical payments

This covers medical and funeral expenses (not all companies offer this coverage).

Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury

This covers injuries an uninsured or underinsured driver causes to an insured person.

Uninsured/underinsured motorist property damage

This covers property damage an uninsured or underinsured driver causes to your insured vehicle.

Collision coverage

This covers damage to your car that is caused by a collision.

Comprehensive coverage (other than collision)

This covers damage to your car -- except by collision. For example, this covers your car if a tree falls on it or someone vandalizes it.

Emergency road service

This covers towing when your car breaks down.

Car rental expense

If you have a claim that is covered under your auto policy, this coverage pays to rent a car. Be sure to check your policy for any limitations.

Death, dismemberment and loss of sight

This pays for death and certain injuries to people named in your policy due to an auto accident.

GAP coverage

In the event your vehicle is a total loss, this pays the difference between the current market value of your auto and the amount you still owe the lender.

Custom equipment coverage

This covers direct and accidental loss to custom furnishings or equipment. Many companies also offer other endorsements (additional coverage).