When people ask us, “what does full coverage car insurance cover?” the answer isn’t always as straightforward as it seems. Many drivers assume it’s one single type of insurance, but in reality, full coverage is a combination of different protections. At Illinois Insurance Center, we make it easier to understand what’s included and, more importantly, how it benefits you on the road.
As an insurance broker, we don’t just offer one option, we shop from more than 20 carriers to match you with the plan that best fits your driving habits, budget, and coverage needs. That’s the difference between calling one insurance company versus calling us. You get choices, not just a single quote.
What Does Full Coverage Car Insurance Cover?
The phrase full coverage insurance refers to a policy that combines liability insurance with collision and comprehensive coverage. It’s the package most lenders require if your car is financed or leased, and many drivers choose it for peace of mind.
Here’s what each piece typically covers:
1. Liability Insurance
This is the coverage required by law in Illinois. It pays for damages and injuries you cause to others in an accident. For example, if you rear-end someone at a stoplight, liability pays for their repairs and medical bills. It does not cover your own vehicle.
Pro Tip: Many drivers stick with the state minimum, but it’s often too low to cover today’s repair and medical costs. Choosing higher limits can protect you from paying thousands out of pocket.
2. Collision Coverage
Collision insurance pays for damage to your own car if you’re at fault in an accident. Whether you hit another vehicle, a guardrail, or a tree, collision helps you repair or replace your car. Without it, you’d be paying those repair costs out of pocket.
Pro Tip: If your car is older and not worth much, you may not need collision coverage. But for newer or financed vehicles, it’s usually worth the extra protection.
3. Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive protects against non-collision events. Think of theft, vandalism, hail damage, falling tree branches, or even hitting a deer. These situations aren’t caused by a crash with another vehicle, yet they can leave you with expensive bills.
Pro Tip: Comprehensive is often less expensive than collision coverage and adds a lot of peace of mind, especially if you park outside or live in an area with harsh weather.
When all three come together, you’ve got what’s commonly called “full coverage.”
Liability vs Full Coverage: What’s the Difference?
Many drivers ask, “Why not just stick with liability?” The answer depends on your vehicle’s value and how much protection you want.
- Liability Only – covers damages and injuries you cause to others. If your car is totaled in an accident you caused, you won’t receive a payout for your own losses.
- Full Coverage Insurance – includes liability, collision, and comprehensive. That means your own vehicle is also protected in most scenarios, whether it’s a crash, a storm, or theft.
In short, liability is the bare minimum, while full coverage gives you protection from more risks.
Other Types of Car Insurance You May Consider
Besides the standard full coverage package, there are add-ons and other types of car insurance that can make your policy stronger. These include:
1. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If you’re hit by a driver without insurance or with too little coverage, this protects you and your passengers. Sadly, these accidents happen more often than you’d think in Illinois.
2. Medical Payments Coverage
This helps pay for medical bills for you and your passengers, no matter who caused the accident.
3. Roadside Assistance or Towing
If your car breaks down, this coverage helps with towing, jump starts, or even a flat tire change.
Illinois Insurance Center can review all these options and compare them across multiple carriers to see which package fits your budget.
Why Work with Illinois Insurance Center?
Choosing the right insurance is about more than checking a box. At Illinois Insurance Center, we:
- Shop over 20+ carriers for you. Instead of calling around for quotes yourself, we handle the legwork and present you with the best choices.
- Match coverage to your needs. A college student driving an older car might need something different than a family with a new SUV. We take the time to get it right.
- Help with unique insurance needs. We provide coverage for cross-border drivers and support rideshare drivers with Rideshare Driver Insurance, offering solutions that many big-name carriers may not.
We’re more than just auto insurance brokers. Many of our clients bundle their car coverage with Homeowner’s Insurance, Renters Insurance, or even Life Insurance for extra savings.
Areas We Serve
Illinois Insurance Center proudly helps drivers across Illinois. If you’re asking yourself “what does full coverage car insurance cover” in Chicago, Cicero, Berwyn, or surrounding suburbs, we’re ready to guide you. See all the areas we serve here.
Trusted Source for Drivers
According to the Illinois Department of Insurance, liability coverage is mandatory for all drivers, and having full coverage can protect against costly out-of-pocket expenses. That’s why it’s so important to understand what’s included before you decide on a policy.
So, what does full coverage car insurance cover? It’s a package that combines liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, giving you protection not only for damages you cause but also for your own vehicle in many situations. With the Illinois Insurance Center, you don’t have to figure this out alone. We compare plans from more than 20 carriers, explain your options in plain language, and help you choose coverage that truly fits your needs.
Contact Illinois Insurance Center for Full Coverage Car Insurance
If you’re ready to review your coverage options or still wondering about liability vs full coverage, give us a call at (708) 524-4900 or visit our Contact Page. Our team at Illinois Insurance Center will shop multiple carriers to get you the right protection at the right price.
Check out our other insurance solutions for Auto Insurance, Commercial Auto Insurance, Commercial Truck Insurance, and Motorcycle Insurance.
Don’t leave your coverage up to chance. Let Illinois Insurance Center help you feel confident every time you hit the road.
FAQs About Full Coverage Insurance
1. Does full coverage mean everything is covered?
Not exactly. Full coverage protects against most common risks like accidents, theft, or weather damage, but it doesn’t cover everything. For example, routine repairs and maintenance aren’t included.
2. Is full coverage required in Illinois?
No. Only liability is required by law. That said, lenders often require full coverage if you lease or finance your car.
3. How much does full coverage cost?
The cost varies based on your driving history, car type, and coverage limits. That’s why Illinois Insurance Center shops across carriers, we want you to get the best deal possible.
4. Can I add extra coverages?
Yes. Options like roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, or higher medical payments coverage can all be added to strengthen your policy.
