What Does Liability Insurance Cover?

In almost every state, auto liability insurance is required by law. Still, for many drivers in the St. Louis area, the auto liability insurance definition is still a confusing one! Part of the confusion arises from the fact that all liability insurance plans are comprised of two parts: one which deals with bodily injury, and another which deals with property damage.

For both parts, the important thing to note is that liability insurance protects the victim in the event of an accident. If you’re found to be at fault for damages, your liability insurance will kick in, so you don’t have to foot the bill on your own.

How Does Liability Insurance Work?

As noted above, liability coverage includes protection against both bodily injury and property damage. Although the minimum coverage limits for each will be set by the state, drivers in Illinois and Missouri will have some leeway in determining the amount of coverage that’s right for them. So, what does liability coverage pay for? In most cases, each of the following will be covered:

• Bodily Injury
  • Medical and hospital bills
  • Any long-term nursing care that may be needed
  • Funeral expenses in the event of a fatal accident
  • Rehab
  • Pain and suffering
  • Lost earnings

• Property Damage
  • Repair expenses
  • Necessary part replacement
  • Vehicle damage
  • General property damage (house, personal property, etc.)
  • Pets

When you’re purchasing coverage, remember that liability insurance only protects the victim in an accident. If you’re at fault, you’ll need additional coverage to protect against bodily injury or property damage which only affects you.

Understanding Liability Coverage Limits

When you’re deciding on the amount of liability coverage that you’d like to pay for, most insurers will let you choose a ‘split limit’ or a ‘single limit’. Here are the important differences:

• Drivers who select a split limit will be able to control the payouts for individuals, multiple injured parties, and for property damage, all independent from one another.
• With a single limit, you’ll be insured for a large lump sum. In the event of an accident where you’re at fault, this money will be split out evenly to all injured parties and damaged properties.

Learn More About Insurance and Auto Financing with Suntrup Automotive Group!

If you’re acquiring a new or a used vehicle, there’s a lot you should know going in! Luckily, the team at Suntrup Automotive Group is here to help. Contacting our team and getting the information you need is as easy as one, two, three! Still doing research? Find out how to weigh the benefits of buying vs. leasing, or learn more about used vs. certified pre-owned vehicles. We can also help you consider non-required assets, like GAP insurance.