"What Does Comprehensive Insurance Cover?" Your Questions Answered

Collision vs. Other Than Collision Coverage: It’s Not About Fault—It’s About What Happened
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Understanding the difference between Collision and Other Than Collision (often called Comprehensive) coverage is essential for making informed auto insurance decisions. Many drivers mistakenly believe fault determines which coverage applies—but that’s not true. It’s the cause of the damage that matters.

What’s the Difference?
Collision Coverage pays for damage to your vehicle when it hits—or is hit by—another object. This includes:

• Crashes with another vehicle
• Hitting a stationary object (like a pole or guardrail)
• Single-car accidents (like rolling your car)

Other Than Collision Coverage (Comprehensive) covers damage from non-collision events, such as:

• Theft or vandalism
• Fire or explosion
• Natural disasters (hail, flood, earthquake)
• Falling objects
• Contact with a live animal (like a deer)
• Glass breakage (unless you elect to treat it as collision)

 Important note: This list shows examples, it is not an exhaustive list. If the damage wasn’t caused by a collision, it likely falls under Other Than Collision.

Common Misunderstandings

• Myth: “If I’m not at fault, it’s comprehensive.”
  Truth: Fault doesn’t determine coverage type. A collision is a collision—whether you caused it or not.
• Myth: “Comprehensive means everything is covered.”
  Truth: Comprehensive is a nickname. The actual term in your policy is Other Than Collision, which is more accurate. It covers many—but not all—non-collision events.
• Real-life example: A customer’s hood flew open while driving because it wasn’t latched properly. No crash occurred, but the damage was covered under Other Than Collision because there was no impact with another object.

​Final Takeaway
Whether you’re dealing with a fender bender or a fallen tree branch, knowing the difference between Collision and Other Than Collision coverage helps you file claims confidently. Remember: It’s not about who’s at fault—it’s about what caused the damage.
If you’re unsure which coverage applies to your situation, AV Insurance Group is here to help. Reach out anytime—we’re happy to walk you through it.