What Coverages Does Auto Insurance Provide?
The exact coverages that are included in an auto insurance policy can vary. Nevertheless, there are some coverages that most policies make available, either as standard or optional coverages. These include:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which usually covers injuries that the driver and their passengers sustain
- Bodily Injury Liability Coverage, which typically covers injuries that other people sustain and the driver is responsible for
- Comprehensive and Collision Coverage, which generally provide protection for a driver’s vehicle
- Property Damage Liability Coverage, which usually covers damage to others’ property that a driver is held liable for
- Underinsured and Uninsured Motorist Coverage, which typically cover incidents other drivers are responsible for but don’t have insurance coverage for
In addition to these common coverages, some auto policies also offer coverage for emergency roadside assistance, rental vehicles, and broken glass (without a deductible).
Who Should Have Auto Insurance?
Massachusetts requires all drivers who own vehicles that are taken on public roads to carry auto insurance. Drivers who don’t at least meet the state’s minimum coverage requirements aren’t able to register their vehicles. Anyone who is found driving a vehicle that’s not properly insured may face legal consequences, and they might be held personally liable for any accidents they cause.
Do Insurance Companies in Massachusetts Base Rates on Drivers’ Credit Scores?
Drivers’ credit scores are one factor that insurers in the state don’t consider. While many states let insurers take into account drivers’ credit scores, Massachusetts, California, and Hawaii have outlawed this practice.
Do Auto Policies’ Coverages Extend to Rental Cars?
Some of the coverages included in an auto policy may extend to cars that the insured driver rents. The coverages that extend vary, however, so drivers should check with their insurance agent to find out whether they need additional coverage when renting a vehicle. Drivers who need additional protection for a rental car might be able to get it from their insurer, their credit card provider, or the rental car company.
How Can Drivers Get Car Insurance?
In order to find a car insurance policy that meets their unique needs, drivers in Massachusetts should contact an independent insurance agent for help. An agent will be able to assess a driver’s particular risk exposure and help them determine what coverages they need. Then, an independent agent can get quotes for several policies that provide those coverages and sign a driver up for the policy they prefer.
