Insurance Curator 
Add-on covers in auto insurance: Are they worth it?
Auto insurance is a necessary evil for most of us. We pay our premiums every month, hoping we’ll never have to use it. But when the time comes, we want to make sure we’re covered for every possible scenario. That’s where add-on covers come in. But are they really worth the extra cost? Let’s dive in and find out.
What are add-on covers?
Add-on covers are additional protections you can add to your auto insurance policy. They cover things that your standard policy might not, like roadside assistance, rental car coverage, or protection for your personal belongings. They can give you peace of mind, knowing you’re covered for more than just the basics.
But do you really need them? Let’s take a closer look.
Roadside assistance: A lifesaver or a money pit?
Imagine this: you’re driving down the highway when suddenly, your car starts making a strange noise. You pull over to the side of the road, and your worst fears are confirmed – your car won’t start. If you have roadside assistance as an add-on cover, you can call for help and someone will come to your rescue. But if you don’t have it, you’re stuck waiting for a tow truck and paying out of pocket.
Roadside assistance can be a lifesaver, but it’s not always necessary. If you have a newer car that’s still under warranty, you might already have roadside assistance included. And if you’re a member of an auto club like AAA, you might have coverage there too.
Rental car coverage: A convenience or a waste of money?
Let’s say you get into an accident and your car is in the shop for repairs. If you have rental car coverage as an add-on, your insurance company will pay for a rental car while your car is being fixed. But if you don’t have it, you’ll have to pay for the rental yourself.
Rental car coverage can be a convenience, but it’s not always necessary. If you have another car you can use, or if you can rely on public transportation or ride-sharing services, you might not need it.
Personal belongings protection: A necessity or an extravagance?
You’re at the mall, and you come back to your car to find that someone has broken in and stolen your laptop. If you have personal belongings protection as an add-on, your insurance company will reimburse you for the cost of the stolen items. But if you don’t have it, you’re out of luck.
Personal belongings protection can be a necessity if you frequently leave valuable items in your car. But if you’re careful about not leaving things in plain sight, or if you have homeowners or renters insurance that covers theft, you might not need it.
Are add-on covers worth it?
So, are add-on covers worth the extra cost? It depends on your individual circumstances. If you have a newer car with roadside assistance included, or if you have other coverage through an auto club or your homeowners insurance, you might not need them. But if you want the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re covered for more than just the basics, they can be worth it.
The bottom line
Add-on covers can give you extra protection and peace of mind, but they’re not always necessary. Before adding them to your policy, consider your individual circumstances and whether you already have coverage elsewhere. And remember, the best insurance is the insurance you never have to use. But if you do need it, you’ll be glad you have it.
In conclusion, add-on covers in auto insurance can be a valuable addition to your policy, but they’re not always worth the extra cost. Consider your individual needs and circumstances before deciding whether they’re right for you. And as always, make sure to do your research and shop around for the best coverage at the best price.