The Top 5 Most Common Auto Insurance Claims

Do you think you do not need auto insurance? Many people hate making that payment because it seems like so much money that is being spent on something you do not use. Yet it provides a wide range of financial protection to you. In many cases, the type and amount of auto insurance you purchase can make a big difference in protecting you from accidents that are unavoidable. Consider the five most common car insurance claims. You'll quickly see how valuable this type of policy can be to you.

1. The typical fender bender

You or another driver fails to stop soon enough. One vehicle hits another vehicle. Perhaps you didn't see someone turning when you advanced into the intersection. Fender benders account for a significant amount of claim value each year, taking the top spot in the most common reasons people file auto insurance claims.

2. Theft

Believe it or not, theft is the second most common claim made. Theft includes claims of the actual vehicle being stolen as well as claims for items within the vehicle being stolen, such as electronics.

3. Vandalism

Unfortunately, vandalism is one of the most common types of claims against auto insurance policies today. Vandalism could include tires being slashed or windows being broken. It can also include damage to paint. Depending on where you live, you may have to pay a bit more in auto insurance coverage because of high rates of vandalism in the area.

4. Whiplash

One of the hardest to notice but most common medical injuries related to auto accidents is whiplash. If you are involved in a car accident and someone experiences whiplash, it can mean thousands of dollars in medical payments.

5. Animal collisions

A deer runs out into the roadway, and you don't have time to avoid it. Depending on where you live, there are often very high risks related to animals. These collisions can cost thousands of dollars in repairs and, in some cases, can lead to a vehicle that's totaled.

When it comes to purchasing auto insurance, you may not think you need a big policy or a lot of coverage. However, not having it could result in a higher risk of having to pay out of pocket for any of these instances.