Swipe the myth, reveal the fact

All myths at a glance

MYTHRed cars cost more to cover.

FACTPaint color is generally not a rating factor. Premiums are typically shaped by factors such as the vehicle's make, model, age, safety features, and the driver's history.

MYTH"Full coverage" means everything is covered.

FACT"Full coverage" is an informal phrase, not a policy type. People often use it to describe liability plus collision and comprehensive, but every policy has limits, exclusions, and deductibles.

MYTHLiability coverage pays to fix my own car.

FACTLiability coverage generally pays for damage or injuries you cause to others. Repairs to your own vehicle usually fall under collision or comprehensive coverage, if you carry them.

MYTHOlder cars always need collision coverage.

FACTWhether collision makes sense depends on the vehicle's value, the deductible, and personal circumstances. Many people review this as a car ages. This is a personal decision, not a rule.

MYTHComprehensive covers every kind of damage, including crashes.

FACTComprehensive typically covers non-collision events such as theft, hail, fire, falling objects, or hitting an animal. Crashes with another vehicle or object are usually a collision matter.

MYTHYou pay your deductible once a year.

FACTAuto deductibles usually apply per claim, not per year. Each covered claim may require paying the deductible again.

MYTHIf a friend borrows my car, their coverage pays first.

FACTIn many cases, coverage follows the vehicle, so the owner's policy is often considered first. Rules vary by state and policy wording, so the policy document is the best reference.

MYTHState minimum liability limits cover any accident.

FACTState minimums are the lowest legal amounts required to drive. Costs from a serious accident can exceed those limits. Minimum requirements also differ from state to state.