5 Essential Car Insurance Coverages You Should Consider Adding

Imagine this: You’re driving down a quiet road on a sunny day, enjoying the breeze and the open road. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a rabbit darts out of the bush and collides with your vehicle. The accident leaves you with a damaged front bumper.

Accidents happen, so having the right car insurance coverage is crucial. While most people understand the importance of basic car insurance, there are additional coverages you should consider adding to your policy to ensure you’re fully protected.

1. Replacement Cost Coverage

When protecting your car, nothing beats having replacement cost coverage. This endorsement ensures that if your new vehicle is stolen or damaged beyond repair, you will be covered for the full purchase price or the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (whichever amount is lower). Without this coverage, you would only receive the depreciated value of your car, which may not be enough to buy a brand-new one.

Before insuring your new car, it’s essential to ask your broker if you qualify for this endorsement, as it typically can only be added within 120 days of your new vehicle’s delivery date. It’s a small investment that can save you from significant financial loss in the event of a total loss. Here’s how your coverage works:

• If your vehicle is a total loss: You can get a brand new one of the same year, make, and model, or the insurer will pay the original purchase price.
• If your vehicle is repairable: Your insurer will cover the cost to only use new parts, not used ones.
• If your vehicle is leased: Your insurer may cover the difference between what your cash settlement and what you owe on your lease.

Tip: Keep your bill of sale handy; it helps with claims!

2. Glass Breakage Coverage

Road hazards can sometimes lead to cracked windshields or shattered windows. Consider adding glass breakage coverage to your auto insurance policy to protect yourself from hefty repair costs. This coverage allows you to lower your deductible from the standard amount to a more affordable price, such as $50.

To qualify for a lower deductible, your windshield must have no pre-existing damage. Additionally, your claim history will be reviewed before adding this coverage. If you have a consistent history of filing glass breakage claims, you may be limited to a higher deductible or may not be eligible for this coverage.

3. Coverage for Transportation Replacement (Loss of Use)

Imagine your car is involved in an accident and is too damaged to drive or has been stolen. In such situations, having coverage for transportation replacement can be a lifesaver. This coverage provides a rental vehicle while your car is being repaired or replaced.

Not only will your rental vehicle be insured under your policy as a temporary substitute vehicle, but if you choose an alternative mode of transportation like public transit or taxi, your insurer will reimburse you up to the coverage limit you have chosen. Additionally, if you rent a vehicle and it gets damaged during your possession, loss of use coverage can help cover the downtime charges set by the rental company.

4. Legal Liability for Damage to Non-Owned Vehicles

Accidents happen, and sometimes, you may find yourself responsible for damaging someone else’s vehicle while in your care. To protect yourself from potential lawsuits and financial loss, consider adding legal liability for damage to non-owned vehicle endorsement to your auto insurance policy.

This endorsement extends your liability coverage to protect you if you’re held responsible for damage to someone else’s vehicle while driving in Canada or the United States (except Mexico). With this endorsement, you may even be able to avoid purchasing the rental company’s optional insurance when renting a vehicle.

5. Personal Liability Protection

While car accidents can cause physical damage and injuries, they can also lead to legal trouble. If you find yourself facing a lawsuit due to bodily injury or property damage caused by an accident, having personal liability protection can be a financial lifesaver.

The standard plate registration liability limit set nearly 40 years ago may not be enough to cover the escalating costs of injuries, lost income, and property damage. Increasing your liability limit is highly recommended, especially for newer drivers with a higher risk of causing an accident. By raising your liability limit, you can better protect yourself from the financial burden of a lawsuit.

Remember, accidents can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. By investing in these additional coverages, you can drive confidently, knowing you’re fully protected on the road.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact your licensed broker today to discuss adding these essential car insurance coverages to your policy and ensure you have the coverage you need when you need it most.

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