What's the difference between basic and standard insurance?


Editorial team Published on

Basic car insurance meets the minimum legal or lender requirements, while standard insurance provides broader protection for your own vehicle and higher liability limits.

Basic Insurance

  • What it covers: Only the state-mandated minimums, usually liability for bodily injury and property damage caused to others.
  • Vehicle protection: Does not cover damage to your own car if you cause an accident, or non-collision events like theft or weather.
  • Cost: Lowest monthly premium, but high out-of-pocket costs if you get into a serious crash.

Standard Insurance

  • What it covers: State minimums plus physical damage protections like collision and comprehensive coverage.
  • Vehicle protection: Pays to repair or replace your own car after crashes, theft, storms, or hitting an animal.
  • Cost: Higher monthly premium than basic coverage, but significantly better financial protection. You can estimate potential expenses using tools like The Hartford's car insurance calculator.