In my practice, I see many New York drivers who are shocked to learn that “full coverage” doesn’t always mean full protection.
Where the Term Comes From
“Full coverage” is often used informally to describe a policy that includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. While those components are important, they don’t tell the whole story.
What’s Typically Included
Most policies labeled as “full coverage” include:
- Liability coverage (for injuries or damage you cause)
- Collision coverage (damage to your own vehicle)
- Comprehensive coverage (theft, weather, vandalism)
What they don’t guarantee is that you will be fully protected if you’re seriously injured.
What Insurance Policies Often Don’t Explain Clearly
Many drivers are not told:
- How low minimum limits really are
- How quickly medical costs can exceed coverage
- What happens when the other driver has little or no insurance
Why Minimum Coverage Hurts Accident Victims
Minimum insurance limits may satisfy legal requirements, but they rarely reflect real-life costs after a serious accident in New York City or the Hudson Valley.
Asking the Right Question
Instead of asking, “Do I have full coverage?” ask:
“If I were seriously injured tomorrow, would this policy truly protect me and my family?”
