Comprehensive vs. collision insurance

Understand the essential differences between comprehensive and collision car insurance to decide which coverage or combination fits your vehicle and risk profile.

In this article published Oct. 20, 2025, on WalletHub:

I do not believe that comprehensive and collision should be mandatory. Unlike liability insurance, which covers injuries and damage you cause to others, and is mandatory so that the responsible party pays for those damages, collision and comprehensive cover your vehicle, so nobody else is affected by your decision. That said, most people should have comprehensive and collision coverage. The cost of repairing a vehicle after an accident or other adverse event can be substantial, making it an important financial protection. There are some cases, such as a car that is almost fully depreciated, or wouldn't be replaced or fixed if it were damaged, where the coverage may not make sense; however, these are exceptions, not the norm.

— Ives Machiz, clinical assistant professor