Car Insurance Deductibles and Liability Limits

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SPEAKER: What's a car insurance deductible and how does it work? Car insurance deductibles--they're a consideration when you're choosing insurance for your vehicle. But what is a car insurance deductible and how does it work? Generally, a deductible is the amount you're responsible to pay when a covered loss occurs.

For example, say you have a $1,000 deductible but have $2,000 in covered damages. You're responsible for the first $1,000 of damages and your insurance company is responsible for the other $1,000 of covered damages.

Collision and comprehensive are the two most common coverages with a deductible. Collision--this coverage helps pay for damage to your vehicle if it hits another car or object or is hit by another car. Comprehensive--this coverage helps pay for damages that are not caused by a collision, like fire, theft, or weather.

There are also some other things to know about deductibles. There are no deductibles for liability insurance, the coverage that pays the other person when you cause an accident. Car insurance deductibles apply to each accident you're in. For example, if you get into three accidents in a policy period and have a $500 deductible, you'll typically be responsible for $500 for each claim.

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There are many options around car insurance deductibles. Talk to your Traveler's representative or independent agent, about the best way to cover your vehicle.

What is a Car Insurance Deductible?

Your car insurance deductible is the amount you'll be responsible for paying towards the costs due to a loss before your insurance coverage pays. The lower the deductible, the less you'll pay out of pocket if an incident occurs. For example, if you choose a $1,000 car insurance deductible and have a covered loss that causes $2,000 in damage to your car, you would be responsible to pay the first $1,000.

Selecting a higher deductible may lower your car insurance premium. But it is important to choose a deductible you can afford in the event of a loss. Talk to your local independent agent or Travelers representative about the deductible options available to you.

When Do You Pay an Auto Insurance Deductible?

Anytime you go to your own insurer to file a claim for damage to your covered automobile, a deductible will apply – whether you are at fault or not. Deductibles most commonly apply to comprehensive and collision coverage, but there may be a deductible for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage or uninsured/underinsured motorists property damage coverage as well.

What Are Liability Limits and How Do They Work?

Your car insurance liability coverage limits, also referred to as limit of liability, are the most your insurance will pay to another party if you are legally responsible for an accident. Choosing a higher limit provides you more protection if an accident occurs.

Coverage limits may vary by coverage type and state. Contact your local independent agent or Travelers representative to learn about the coverages and liability limit that is right for you.

What are Personal Liability Umbrella Policies and Are They Required?

An umbrella policy is additional liability coverage over and above the limits of your car insurance policy. Umbrella policies are not required and available coverage limits and eligibility requirements may vary by state.