Full Coverage Auto Insurance Explained

Full coverage auto insurance isn't an actual policy type — it's an industry term for a combination of liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage that protects both you and other drivers. Despite the name, it doesn't cover everything, and understanding what's excluded can prevent costly surprises after an accident.

Updated April 2026

What Is Full Coverage Insurance?

How Much Does Full Coverage Insurance Cost?

  • Point total and violation type — a single speeding ticket (2-3 points) might add 20-30% to your premium, while an at-fault accident (3-4 points) can increase it 40-60%, and DUI convictions often double or triple full coverage costs.
  • Deductible selection — choosing a $1,000 deductible instead of $500 can reduce your collision and comprehensive premiums by 15-30%, critical for managing costs when points have already elevated your base rate.
  • Vehicle value and age — insuring a $35,000 financed SUV costs significantly more than a $12,000 sedan, and some drivers with points find they're priced out of full coverage on expensive vehicles by non-standard carriers.
  • Credit-based insurance score — in states that allow it, poor credit combined with license points creates a compounding effect that can push full coverage premiums 60-100% above clean-record drivers with good credit.
  • Coverage limits and add-ons — state minimum liability (often 25/50/25) costs less than 100/300/100, but drivers with points are higher-risk for future claims and should consider higher limits to avoid personal asset exposure.
  • Insurer type — after accumulating points, standard carriers like State Farm or Allstate may non-renew you or quote rates 80-150% higher, while non-standard carriers specializing in high-risk drivers (The General, Acceptance, Direct Auto) often provide more competitive full coverage pricing.

See How Much You Could Save

Get personalized full coverage insurance quotes in minutes.

Who Needs Full Coverage Insurance?

Related Coverage Types

Get Your Free Full Coverage Quote