Liability vs. Full Coverage: Which One’s Right for You?
When shopping for auto insurance in Arizona, you’ll likely come across two common options: liability insurance and full coverage. But what do these terms actually mean—and which one is right for you?
At Rivas Insurance, we want you to feel confident in your coverage. Whether you’re cruising around Douglas, heading to Tucson, or preparing for a trip across the border, here’s what you need to know.
What Is Liability Insurance?
Liability insurance is the minimum required coverage to legally drive in Arizona. It helps pay for injuries or damage you cause to others in an accident.
What It Covers:
- Medical expenses for the other party
- Repairs to the other driver’s vehicle
- Legal fees if you’re sued as a result of the accident
What It Doesn’t Cover:
- Damage to your own vehicle
- Your own medical expenses
- Theft or vandalism
Liability insurance is a good starting point if you drive an older vehicle or are trying to keep your premium low. However, it leaves your own car and costs unprotected.
What Is Full Coverage?
Full coverage is a combination of:
- Liability insurance (as required by the state)
- Collision coverage (for damages to your car from accidents)
- Comprehensive coverage (for damages unrelated to crashes, like theft, weather, or vandalism)
What Full Coverage Offers:
- Protection for your vehicle, regardless of who’s at fault
- Coverage in case of natural disasters, animal collisions, or falling objects
- Peace of mind when financing or leasing a vehicle
Full coverage is ideal if you’re driving a newer vehicle, crossing the border into Mexico, or simply want more complete protection on the road.
What If You Have a Car Loan?
If you’re financing or leasing your car, your lender will almost always require full coverage. That’s because the lender technically owns the vehicle until it’s paid off—and they want to protect their investment.
Without full coverage, your lender could be left at a loss if your car is damaged, stolen, or totaled. Having comprehensive and collision insurance ensures that the vehicle can be repaired or replaced, which benefits both you and your lender.
Not sure what your loan agreement requires? The team at Rivas Insurance can review it with you and make sure you’re fully compliant—while still getting the best rate possible.
How Do You Choose?
Consider:
- The value of your vehicle
- Your budget
- Whether you drive into Mexico (you’ll need special cross-border coverage)
- Your comfort level with risk
Our team at Rivas Insurance can help you compare both options and find the coverage that fits your needs—and your wallet.
We offer:
✅ Personalized quotes
✅ Bilingual service
✅ Mexico auto insurance options
Still not sure what’s right for you?
Call us or stop by our office in Douglas, AZ. We’ll help you understand your options and drive away with confidence.
📍 303 E 16th St, Douglas, AZ
📞 (520) 805-1600