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Auto Liability Coverage Explained

Liability coverage pays for injuries and property damage you cause to other people. It is the part of a car insurance policy that nearly every state requires.

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Bodily injury vs. property damage

Bodily injury liability helps with other people's medical costs after an at-fault accident. Property damage liability helps repair or replace what you damaged — usually another vehicle, sometimes a fence, wall or storefront.

How limits are written

Limits are usually shown as three numbers, for example 25/50/25: the maximum paid per injured person, per accident, and for property damage. Each state's Department of Insurance sets its own minimums.

Why minimum limits are often not enough

A single hospital stay or a newer vehicle can exceed a state minimum quickly, and anything above the limit can come out of your pocket. Higher limits usually cost less per dollar of protection than people expect.

What liability does not cover

It does not pay for your own vehicle or your own injuries. Collision, comprehensive, medical payments and personal injury protection handle those, depending on your state and policy.

General educational information, not insurance advice or a quote. Coverage terms, availability and pricing are determined by the insurer and vary by state.

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