Are You Really Covered? Part 9 – Comprehensive (Optional Coverage)

As discussed earlier, Part 7 (Optional Collision) of the Standard Massachusetts Automobile Insurance Policy covers you if the total loss or damage to your vehicle was caused by a crash. On the other hand, Part 9 of your policy provides coverage in the event your vehicle is rendered a total loss by means other than a collision such as fire, theft, vandalism, weather, striking an animal, or some other event that renders your vehicle a total loss. This part also covers glass breakage not related to a crash. Coverage in Part 9 extends to other private automobiles driven by you or a member of your household (with the consent of the owner.) The amount paid to fix or replace the car or any of its parts will generally not exceed the actual cash value of the vehicle or its parts at the time of loss, and they will either be replaced or repaired at the discretion of the insurer. In all cases, you are still responsible for the deductible, which is automatically set at $500 unless you choose a different amount. Insurers will also reimburse you for transportation expenses only if your car is stolen, starting 48 hours after you’ve reported it to the police.