Auto Insurance With Liability Protection
Wisconsin is now a mandatory auto insurance state (as are nearly all other states). Proof of insurance should be carried in your vehicle at all times; failure to provide it when requested could result in a fine of up to $500.
Tickets and at-fault accidents can have a very negative effect on premiums. Young drivers should be especially aware of this, as they are charged the highest rates due to a lack of driving experience.
Summary of Auto Insurance Coverages
Bodily Injury Liability
Protection against financial loss if your auto injures or kills others and you are held liable. This covers the injured person's medical bills, lost wages, and “pain and suffering.” Defense cost coverage ceases once the insurance company pays the policy limits. An additional personal umbrella liability policy can provide $1,000,000 or more in protection above these liability limits.
Property Damage Liability
Protection against financial loss if your auto damages the property of others and you are held liable.
Medical Payments
Pays up to policy limits for reasonable medical expenses for you and the passengers in your vehicle incurred within three years of an accident. This coverage is designed to cover the deductible on your health insurance policy.
Collision
Pays for damage to your auto caused by a collision. Your deductible applies. If your parked vehicle is hit by a hit-and-run driver, it is a collision claim. This coverage is frequently used even in not-at-fault accidents to expedite repairs or when the other driver is uninsured. Towing bills resulting from an accident are also covered under collision coverage.
Emergency Road Service
Pays up to the selected limit for towing bills or emergency road service resulting from mechanical breakdowns. No deductible applies.
Car Rental
Pays up to the selected limit to rent a replacement vehicle if yours is laid up for repairs due to a covered “other than collision” or collision claim. This does not provide coverage if your vehicle is undergoing mechanical repairs and is not related to the coverage needed when renting a vehicle.
Special Equipment
Generally needed to cover custom or non-manufacturer-installed equipment.
Other Important Information
In instances where one has their license suspended or revoked, it may be necessary to have an insurance company file proof that you carry insurance in the form of an SR-22 filing. We represent several companies that will do these filings.
Other Than Collision
Also known as “comprehensive coverage,” this provides coverage for damage to your vehicle caused by events other than a collision. Covered losses can include vandalism, fire, theft, and animal damage, to name a few.
*The above descriptions are generalizations and should not be relied upon when determining coverage. You must refer to the actual policy wording when determining whether or what type of coverage applies.
DISCLAIMER: If you need a policy updated or changed, please contact your respected agent.