October 15, 2022 was just like any other Saturday at Robinson Family Farm until it wasn’t. A massive fire broke out in the parking lot of the Texas pumpkin patch, engulfing over 70 vehicles in flames.
Around 1 pm that afternoon, thick black smoke began to fill the air as people ran for their lives. The source of the blaze was believed to be from a cigarette discarded in the dry grass surrounding the lot.
Although no one was injured, few were able to salvage their cars and many were left with the question, ‘Does my car insurance cover this?’
What Is Auto Insurance?
When you think of insurance, you probably think of the premiums you pay each month to cover your home, car and other possessions. But did you know that there are dozens more types of coverage that can help protect against a wide range of risks?
Auto insurance is a form of insurance that covers medical expenses, property damage, and other losses from an automobile accident. Auto insurance can also include coverage for collision, theft or vandalism, medical payments, and personal injury protection. In most cases, losses are covered from claims made by customers who have purchased policies from insurers.
Why Do You Need It?
Auto insurance provides protection against significant financial losses resulting from a covered auto accident. If someone hits your car while they are at fault, the insurer will pay for repairs to your vehicle (minus any deductible) as well as provide coverage for any injuries sustained by you or your passengers. It also provides peace of mind, knowing that you’re protected in case you’re in an accident and it is your fault.
Auto insurance is required by law in most states; however there are some exceptions such as New Hampshire where drivers can opt out of having this type of coverage, but only after meeting certain conditions set forth by their state’s laws.
Other states may require proof that one has adequate liability coverage before issuing tags for new vehicles purchased within its borders – and anyone renewing their tags may likewise need to show proof that they have adequate liability coverage on old vehicles still registered with them.
Standard Coverage
Standard coverage includes:
- Liability coverage. If you are at fault in an accident, this pays for any injuries or property damage you cause to others. It also covers your legal costs if someone sues you because of their injuries.
- Comprehensive and collision coverage. These pay for damages if another car hits yours or it’s stolen from public places like a parking lot, street or garage. The deductible is usually $1,000 to $2,500 on each type of insurance; the lower deductible saves money but means more claims will be covered by your own pocketbook rather than that of the other driver’s insurance company.
- Personal injury protection (PIP). PIP pays medical expenses incurred by people who are injured in an auto accident regardless of who caused it — unless there was gross negligence on your part (e.g., driving at 100 mph while drunk). Waivers may limit what kinds of treatment PIP will cover — check with your agent before purchasing this option so that any limitations are clear up front instead of causing confusion later on.
Optional Coverage
Optional coverage is supplemental to your standard insurance. If you choose to add optional coverage, the only difference is that you’re paying extra for it. It’s not required by law and there isn’t a minimum amount of coverage required by law, so if you don’t want to pay extra for it or not at all, that’s OK!
Conclusion
Auto insurance is an important part of your financial security. It protects you from significant financial losses and provides peace of mind. Proper insurance coverage helps you recover from accidents, maintain your car’s value, get back on the road quickly, avoid legal trouble, and avoid financial trouble.
While it may seem like a hassle to have to buy auto insurance, the reality is that not having it could be even more expensive. Our team here at Henry Insurance is a trusted resource to our clients. Give us a call at 225-927-0451 and we’ll be happy to help you make better decisions, no matter the circumstance.
