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What's the difference between liability coverage and full-coverage auto insurance?

I'm new to car insurance so I'm trying to learn all the basics. Any advice would be appreciated!

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Shannon Martin · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“Welcome to the world of auto insurance! While this may seem like a basic question, it is one of the most important ones to ask.
Liability insurance
tends to be referred to as one type of coverage, but it is made up of several coverages. These are the coverages your insurance carrier will pay out to another party if you are found to be at fault for an accident:
Full coverage usually refers to a policy with liability coverage,
comprehensive coverage
, and
collision coverage
. Comprehensive and collision coverage will pay for damages to your vehicle.
If you have a loan or a car that still retains some value, full coverage is the option you will want to choose.
When shopping for car insurance, make sure the limits you choose fit your needs; don’t just get the policy with the cheapest premium.
Many carriers will talk you into getting just the state-minimum requirements for your liability coverage, but it is always in your best interest to carry more. The recommended limit for most people is 100/300/50.
Since you are just getting started, you may want to reach out to a local
car insurance broker
who can explain the coverages and benefits in greater detail. “
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