Don’t compromise when it comes to your auto insurance. Today’s rising medical expenses, vehicle repair costs, and court settlements make having the right coverage more important than ever. A car accident can happen in a second, and when it does, you want to know you’re protected. But with so many options, how do you decide which type of auto insurance is right for you: full coverage or liability?
At Musty-Barnhart Agency, we believe that auto insurance should never be a one-size-fits-all decision. It should be tailored to your driving habits, vehicle value, financial situation, and peace of mind. Let’s explore the differences between full coverage and liability auto insurance and how to choose the right policy for your needs.
Understanding Liability Auto Insurance
Liability auto insurance is the most basic coverage required by law in most states. It protects you financially if you’re at fault in an accident that causes damage to someone else’s property or injuries to another person.
Liability auto insurance typically includes:
- Bodily Injury Liability: Covers medical bills, lost wages, and legal fees if you’re responsible for someone else’s injuries.
- Property Damage Liability: Covers the cost of repairs to another person’s vehicle or property.
Who Should Consider Liability-Only Coverage?
Liability insurance is often a good fit for:
- Drivers of older vehicles with low market value
- Those who have paid off their vehicle in full
- Individuals looking to meet the legal minimum for coverage
- Drivers who have enough savings to cover repairs to their own vehicle if needed
While liability insurance costs less than full coverage, it doesn’t cover your own vehicle. If you get into an accident, you’re paying out of pocket to fix your car.
What Is Full Coverage Auto Insurance?
Full coverage auto insurance includes liability insurance, but it also protects your vehicle regardless of who is at fault. It typically includes:
- Collision Coverage: Pays for damage to your vehicle after a crash, even if you’re at fault.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Covers damage from events other than collisions, such as theft, vandalism, weather, or hitting a deer.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects you if the other driver doesn’t have enough insurance.
Who Needs Full Coverage Auto Insurance?
Full coverage is ideal for:
- Newer vehicles or cars with a higher market value
- Leased or financed cars (lenders usually require full coverage)
- Drivers who want the peace of mind of maximum protection
- Those living in areas with higher rates of theft, severe weather, or animal collisions
While full coverage costs more, it also offers broader protection. You won’t have to worry about major out-of-pocket expenses after an accident or storm.
Key Differences to Consider
When choosing between liability and full coverage, consider the following factors:
- Vehicle Value: If your car is worth less than $2,000–$3,000, full coverage may not be worth the premium. But if your car is newer or has retained its value, the protection full coverage offers can save you money in the long run.
- Risk Tolerance: If you’re comfortable taking the financial hit for repairs or replacement, liability might work. But if you’d rather avoid unexpected costs, full coverage is the safer bet.
Budget and Premiums: Full coverage auto insurance will have higher premiums than liability-only, but it could be more cost-effective after an accident. - Lender Requirements: If you’re financing your vehicle, you’ll likely be required to carry full coverage until the loan is paid off.
Don’t Forget About Optional Add-ons
Both liability and full coverage policies can be customized with additional protections. Musty-Barnhart offers a range of options to tailor your auto insurance even further, including:
- Rental reimbursement
- Roadside service
- Full glass coverage
- Replacement cost auto coverage
- Maximum liability limits
- Senior, good student, and distant student discounts
- Additional personal injury or medical payment coverage
These extras are affordable and can provide tremendous value when the unexpected happens.
Which One Is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best choice comes down to your personal situation. Are you willing to risk paying out of pocket if your car is totaled? Is your vehicle expensive to repair or replace? Do you drive frequently or rely heavily on your car for work or family needs? How important is peace of mind to you when you’re on the road, knowing you’re fully covered in case of an accident or unexpected issue?
At Musty-Barnhart, we don’t just sell auto insurance. Our team is here to guide you through the process. We take the time to understand your unique needs, whether you’re a new driver, a family with multiple vehicles, or someone with a high-value car. We explain your options clearly, breaking down the coverage details so you know exactly what you’re getting. Then, we create a policy tailored for real protection, not just the legal minimum, to ensure you feel confident every time you get behind the wheel.
A Local Agency You Can Trust
With locations in Lake City, Red Wing, Lutsen, and Ellsworth, Musty-Barnhart Agency is your hometown source for personal, business, health, and life insurance solutions. Our team believes in the power of personal connection and community-based service.
As an independent, full-service agency, we partner with top-rated insurance providers to give you real choices—not just one company’s products. That means better value, more flexibility, and a policy that fits your life.
Owners Bob Kubes and Dee Whipple are proud to live and work in the communities they serve. When you call Musty-Barnhart, you’re speaking to someone who knows your town, your roads, and your needs.
Contact Our Team to Discuss Your Insurance Options
Are you ready to make the smart choice for your vehicle? Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly liability or maximum protection with full coverage, the team at Musty-Barnhart is here to help. We’ll walk you through the differences, explain your options in plain language, and recommend coverage that fits your lifestyle. Your vehicle deserves more than guesswork. It deserves guidance from local experts who care. Contact our team to discuss your insurance options or call us today at 651-388-7128. Let us find you the right auto insurance plan, because peace of mind on the road starts with the right coverage.
