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"Full coverage" auto insurance: what does it really mean, and when do you need it?

Apr 23, 2026, 13:30 PM by Garrett Kelly
"Full coverage" car insurance is not a type of policy that’s offered. Learn what this common term means, how comprehensive coverage differs from liability insurance, and which option may protect you best in Indiana.


You’ve likely heard or used the phrase “full coverage” auto insurance, and you’re not alone. It’s a common term, but there’s actually no such thing as “full coverage” insurance. It’s not a specific policy type or insurance product you can purchase. 

 

So, what do people mean when they use the term “full coverage” as it relates to auto insurance? Typically, they’re referring to a policy that combines liability, collision, and comprehensive coverages. Adding collision and comprehensive coverage goes beyond the state-required minimum liability coverage.  

 

It’s important to understand the insurance coverage types, what they include, and what they do not include. That way, you can make the right insurance decision for your vehicle and situation. 

What people mean by “full coverage” insurance

 

When someone is shopping for insurance and mentions “full coverage,” they usually mean an auto insurance policy that includes: 

  • Liability coverage: required by law in Indiana 

  • Collision coverage: covers accidental damage to your vehicle 

Comprehensive coverage: protects your vehicle from non-collision damage (Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance calls this coverage “other than collision coverage”) 

 

This combination of coverages provides protection for damages you cause to others and for damage to your vehicle. That’s why people think of it as “full coverage.”  

 

However, this set of coverages still doesn’t cover everything under the sun. To fully understand what your auto insurance policy covers, contact your local Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance agent. They will be happy to review and discuss your coverage options with you.  

 

What is liability insurance?

 

Liability insurance is the most basic auto insurance policy you can purchase. Per Indiana law, all drivers in Indiana must have liability auto insurance in place. This coverage protects other people when you’re at fault in an accident, but it does not provide protection for your own vehicle. 

 

Minimum auto insurance requirements in Indiana

 

Indiana law requires drivers to have coverage that meets the 25/50/25 formula, which is: 

  • $25,000 for bodily injury or death of a person in an accident caused by the at-fault driver 

  • $50,000 for total bodily injury or death in an accident caused by the at-fault driver 

  • $25,000 for property damage caused in an accident by an at-fault driver 

     

What liability insurance covers

 

Bodily injury liability insurance helps cover: 

  • Medical expenses for people you injure in an at-fault accident 

  • Lost wages of other people you injure in an at-fault accident 

  • Pain and suffering claims (including emotional damage) 

  • Your legal defense fees if you are sued 

Property damage liability insurance helps cover: 

  • Repairs to other people’s vehicle 

  • Damage to buildings, fences, lampposts, and other structures 

  • Your legal costs from property damage claims 

  • Loss of business income you caused 

 

Liability insurance does not cover: 

  • Any damage to your personal vehicle  

  • Your medical bills after an accident 

  • Theft of your vehicle  

  • Vandalism to your vehicle 

  • Weather-related damage (e.g., hail, windstorms) 

 

Costs can add up quickly after an accident. Even if you opt to carry only liability insurance, you can select limits above the Indiana state insurance requirements of 25/50/25. Inadequate coverage can be a major financial risk. Since carrying only liability insurance means you are more financially vulnerable, it’s important to know about the option to add collision and/or comprehensive coverage to make an informed decision. 

 

What is collision coverage?

 

Collision coverage is a key element of auto insurance. When paired with liability insurance, it’s the next level of protection as a driver. Collision coverage protects your vehicle when you are in an accident. 

 

Collision coverage helps cover your vehicle when you: 

  • Hit another vehicle 

  • Are hit by another vehicle (regardless of fault) 

  • Hit a stationary object like a tree or building 

  • Roll your vehicle over 

  • Cause a single-car accident 

 

To take coverage to the next level and obtain what people mistakenly call “full coverage” auto insurance, you can add comprehensive coverage to your policy. 

 

 

What is comprehensive coverage 

 

Comprehensive coverage, called “other than collision” at Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance, protects damage to your own vehicle from atypical accidents.  

 

Comprehensive coverage helps cover your vehicle for: 

  • Theft of the vehicle 

  • Vandalism 

  • Hail, water, or flood 

  • Windstorms 

  • Animal collisions  

  • Glass breakage 

 

What happens if I’m uninsured or underinsured in Indiana?

 

Indiana is an “at-fault” state. That means the person who caused an accident is financially responsible for all damages. So, while liability coverage may be a requirement, there’s a good chance it may not be enough coverage for you. 

 

Serious accidents that result in injuries can see medical bills reaching $100,000 or more. If you have the state minimum coverage of $25,000 per person in coverage and you go beyond your policy limits, you are personally liable for the difference.  

 

The penalties for driving uninsured in Indiana are steep.  

  • First offense: 90-day license suspension and a $250 reinstatement fee 

  • Subsequent offenses: The penalties accumulate and at the third offense, the driver’s license will be suspended for one year and face a $1,000 reinstatement fee. 

  • All offenses:  Require SR-22 certificate filed by an insurance company to show financial responsibility and prove to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles that you have insurance in place.  

 

Do you need collision and comprehensive coverage? 

 

You should strongly consider adding collision and comprehensive coverage if you: 

  • Have a newer vehicle or one that is worth a significant amount of money 

  • Can’t afford to replace your vehicle out-of-pocket 

  • Have a loan or lease (lenders will require it) 

  • Live in an area with high theft or vandalism rates 

  • Live in an area with frequently adverse weather conditions 

  • Frequently drive in areas with deer and other wildlife 

  • Want more protection and peace of mind 

 

Liability-only coverage might be enough for you if you: 

  • Drive an older car that is worth less than a few thousand dollars 

  • Have enough money saved to replace your car 

  • Own your vehicle outright (no loan or lease in place) 

  • Are comfortable assuming the financial risk 

 

You don’t have to go it alone. Reach out to an  Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance agent today. They can help you assess your needs, identify discounts, explain your coverages and adjust coverages as needed for your circumstances. We have agents in all 92 counties in Indiana who specialize in helping you find protection that works for you.  

 

 

 

Inside Story is for educational and informational purposes only. Inside Story is compiled from various sources, which may or may not be affiliated with our family of companies, and may include the assistance of artificial intelligence. While we strive to provide accurate and reliable content, we make no warranties or guarantees about its completeness, accuracy, or reliability, and are not responsible for the content of any third-party sources or websites referenced herein. The inclusion of any content does not establish a business relationship or constitute our endorsement, approval, or recommendation of any third party. Testimonials and examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and do not guarantee future or similar results or outcomes, and may not consider individual circumstances, goals, needs, or objectives. Inside Story does not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. For individual guidance, please consult a qualified professional in the appropriate field.   
Coverages subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Subject to underwriting review and approval. 


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