Your auto policy might not be the most interesting reading material. But it's important that you understand how the coverages provided in your auto policy protect you. Here's the lowdown on auto coverages, in terms you can understand.

Pays for injuries to other drivers, passengers and pedestrians when the accident is your fault.

Pays for damage to the other driver's car or other property when the accident is your fault.

Pays for doctor, hospital and other medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of who is at fault.

Pays for damage to your car caused by a collision with another car or object.

Pays for damage to your car from incidents such as vandalism, fire, theft, windstorm, flood, animal collision, falling objects and glass breakage.

Pays for injuries to you or your passengers when the other driver is at fault but has inadequate insurance coverage or no coverage at all.

Each coverage has a limit of insurance: the minimum amount of coverage required by law (this varies by state). For example, in Illinois, the limits for Bodily Injury Liability Coverage are $20,000 per person/ $40,000 per accident. Higher limits are available, and it's best to seek the advice of your agent to determine what limits you need to protect your assets.

Optional coverages are added on to a standard auto policy. Here are a few of the more common ones.

More commonly referred to as rental insurance, this coverage pays for transportaion expenses when an accident is covered under collision or other than collision coverage. A typical standard policy includes $20 per day with a $600 maximum. Higher limits are available.

Pays for labor costs and towing when your car is disabled or breaks down.

If you have a loan or lease on your car and are in an accident where the car is totaled, this coverage pays for the gap between the actual cash value and the amound you owe on the car so that the difference doesn't come out of your pocket.

There are many optional coverages available to meet your specific auto insurance needs. Contact Us to learn more or request a quote.