Glossary & first-policy checklist
Two beginner tools in one place: plain-English definitions for every term you'll meet, and a step-by-step list of what to gather before you buy.
Plain-English glossary
Claim
A request to your insurer to pay for a covered loss.
Collision
Pays to repair your own car after a crash, no matter who's at fault.
Comprehensive
Covers non-crash damage: theft, weather, vandalism, hitting an animal.
Coverage limit
The most your policy will pay for a covered claim.
Deductible
What you pay out of pocket on a claim before insurance covers the rest.
Full coverage
Informal term for liability plus collision and comprehensive.
Gap insurance
Covers the difference between what you owe and the car's value if it's totaled.
Liability coverage
Pays for injury or damage you cause to others. Required in most states.
Premium
The amount you pay for your policy — usually monthly or every six months.
SR-22
A form proving you carry the state-required minimum coverage.
Underwriting
How insurers assess your risk to set your price.
Uninsured motorist
Protects you if you're hit by a driver who has no insurance.
First-policy checklist
Tick these off before you request a quote. Your progress is saved as you go — check an item to mark it done.