When it comes to protecting your vehicle, not all car insurance is created equal. Two common — and often misunderstood — coverages are collision and comprehensive. Both offer valuable protection beyond basic liability, but they cover very different risks.
So which one do you need? Maybe both. Maybe just one. In this article, we’ll break down the differences, when each makes sense, and how to choose what’s right for your budget, lifestyle, and vehicle in 2025.
What Is Collision Coverage?
Collision insurance covers damage to your vehicle when it hits — or is hit by — another object. That includes:
- Crashes with another vehicle (regardless of fault)
- Single-car accidents (like hitting a tree or guardrail)
- Damage from potholes or road debris
Collision does not cover damage from fire, theft, or weather — that’s where comprehensive comes in.
What Is Comprehensive Coverage?
Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your car from events other than collisions. It includes:
- Theft or vandalism
- Natural disasters (hail, flooding, fire, etc.)
- Falling objects (like tree limbs)
- Animal collisions (e.g., hitting a deer)
In short, if your car is damaged and it wasn’t due to a crash with another car or object — comprehensive likely applies.
Key Differences Between Collision and Comprehensive
| Feature | Collision | Comprehensive |
|---|---|---|
| What It Covers | Accidents involving other vehicles or objects | Non-crash events (theft, fire, weather, animals) |
| Typical Deductible | $500–$1,000 | $250–$1,000 |
| Required By Lenders | Yes (if financing or leasing) | Yes (usually paired with collision) |
| Fault Coverage | Covers your car regardless of fault | Applies regardless of who caused the incident |
| Cost | Typically higher than comprehensive | Typically lower than collision |
Do You Need Collision, Comprehensive, or Both?
Here’s a quick guide:
- You should consider both if your vehicle is newer or financed
- Only comprehensive might make sense if you drive an older car but want protection from non-accident damage
- Only collision may work if you live in a low-risk area and don’t worry about theft or weather
- Neither might be an option if your car’s value is low enough that paying out of pocket makes more financial sense
Tip: Check your vehicle’s current value using Kelley Blue Book (KBB) or Edmunds before deciding.
Final Thoughts
Collision and comprehensive insurance serve two different — but equally important — roles in protecting your vehicle. Understanding the difference helps you avoid overpaying for coverage you don’t need, or worse, being underinsured when something unexpected happens.
Compare quotes with both options included, and don’t be afraid to adjust your deductibles to balance affordability and peace of mind. The right choice? It depends on you.