There is no specific “Full Coverage” definition when it comes to NY car insurance but most in the industry would consider it as people who carry the State required liability protections along with comprehensive and collision coverage.
Full coverage disputes sometimes arise between policy holders and insurers as it relates to “add-on” coverages for endorsements such as roadside assistance, glass replacement, rental car reimbursement and new car replacement guarantee. Insureds sometimes think that they have full coverage which includes all add-ons when in fact they only have liability, comprehensive and collision protection.
New York State Auto Insurance Add-ons
- Roadside Assistance. Most NY insurance companies offer roadside assistance for as little as $10 to $20 per year as an add-on. This coverage will help with things like a needed tow, changing of a flat tire and battery charge. There are often different levels of protection, typically offered from as little as $50 to $150 per occurrence. Some car manufacturers offer this service with the purchase of a new vehicle and it’s also available as a standalone service through AAA.
- Glass Replacement. Sometimes referred to as Full Glass, this coverage allows you to get your window or windshield fixed or replaced without paying a deductible. Glass repair or replacement follows your comprehensive coverage deductible and with many insurers you have to elect to choose a lesser deductible or no deductible at all for a nominal charge. Drivers are often shocked and upset when they think they have this coverage only to have to shell out hundreds of dollars out of pocket to have their windshield replaced.
- Rental Car Reimbursement. This coverage helps you pay for a rental car when your own vehicle is being repaired after a covered insurance claim and is offered as an add-on. Typical coverage limits offered are from $30 to $100 per day up to 30 days while you don’t have access to your own vehicle. There is normally no deductible associated with this protection. In order to get this coverage, you typically need to carry comprehensive and collision coverage as well. It’s important to keep in mind that rental car reimbursement applies for damage to your vehicle in a covered accident but does not apply if your car is simply broken down mechanically through wear and tear or other non-accident reasons. Also, if you have, say a $40 per day limit for a covered claim and choose an $80 per day rental, you are responsible for the excess amount over $40 per day.
- New Car Replacement. This add-on coverage is offered by some insurance companies to drivers of brand new cars. It allows you money for a brand new car of the same make and model, less your deductible, instead of the depreciated value of your vehicle should your car be totaled out. In fact, some insurers offer this coverage as included with certain policies and you do not have to pay extra as an add-on to receive the benefit. Depending on the insurer, the limits for this coverage are typically for one year or 12,000 miles to two years and 24,000 miles.
The moral of the story here is to not assume that you have these coverages if they are something you want or need. Either review your policy to see the added coverage is there or call your agent to review your policy with you. Sometimes we shop for cheap NY car insurance and add-ons get the axe in the quoting process unintentionally.
If you have any questions regarding auto, home and business insurance options, please contact us, we’re always glad to help. The NY Insurance Hub serves Albany, Schenectady, Troy, Latham, Cohoes, Watervliet, Clifton Park, Saratoga Springs, surrounding Capital Region areas and all of New York State from NYC to Buffalo.