Car insurance is a crucial aspect of owning and operating a vehicle in the United States. Most states require drivers to have a minimum amount of car insurance protection to ensure that they can cover the costs of damages and medical expenses in the event of an accident. Personal liability and property damage (PLPD) insurance is a type of coverage that is essential for all drivers to have. In this article, we will explore what PLPD insurance is, what it covers, what it doesn’t cover, how much coverage you need, and other types of car insurance you may want to consider.
Personal liability and property damage insurance, or PLPD insurance, is the minimum amount of car insurance coverage required by most states. In every state except Michigan, PLPD is generally referred to as liability insurance. This type of insurance is designed to cover the costs associated with damages to another driver’s vehicle and medical expenses for the other driver and their passengers if you are at fault for an auto accident.
PLPD coverage consists of two main parts: personal liability and property damage. Personal liability insurance, also known as bodily injury coverage, kicks in when you are at fault for an accident and the other driver or their passengers require medical attention. This coverage pays for medical expenses and lost wages up to your liability limits. Property damage coverage, on the other hand, covers the costs of repairing another driver’s vehicle or property after an accident you are at fault for.
It’s important to note that PLPD insurance does not cover the costs related to your own vehicle damage or injuries to you or your passengers. If your vehicle is damaged in an accident you are at fault for, you will need to pay for repairs out of pocket if you do not have collision insurance. Additionally, your car insurance company will not cover your medical bills resulting from an accident if you only have liability insurance.
When it comes to determining how much PLPD insurance you need, it is essential to consider the state minimum requirements and the potential costs of an accident. Experts recommend having coverage of $100,000/$300,000/$100,000 (bodily injury liability per person/bodily injury liability per accident/property damage liability) to protect your finances in the event of an auto accident. This higher coverage amount can help minimize your out-of-pocket costs if you cause an accident and the damages exceed your maximum coverage.
In addition to PLPD insurance, there are other types of car insurance policies you may want to consider for added protection. Collision insurance covers damage done to your vehicle resulting from a car accident, while comprehensive insurance pays for repairs to your vehicle caused by events other than collisions, such as theft or vandalism. Underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage, personal injury protection (PIP), and medical payments coverage (MedPay) are also options to consider for additional protection.
When shopping for auto insurance, it is essential to get quotes from multiple providers to compare prices and coverage options. Two top insurance companies to consider for PLPD coverage are State Farm and Geico. State Farm is known for offering some of the best insurance rates for safe drivers, while Geico is a great option for budget-conscious drivers. Both companies offer a range of coverage options and discounts to help you find the right policy for your needs.
In conclusion, PLPD insurance is a crucial aspect of protecting yourself and others on the road. Understanding what PLPD insurance covers, what it doesn’t cover, how much coverage you need, and other types of car insurance available can help you make informed decisions when selecting a policy. By having the right coverage in place, you can drive with confidence knowing that you are financially protected in the event of an accident.