There's No Such Thing as “Full Coverage”

By McAdams Insurance Agency · August 2026 · 3 min read

“I just want full coverage” is one of the most common phrases we hear — and one of the most misunderstood. “Full coverage” isn't an actual insurance product; it's a nickname, and it means different things to different people.

Where the phrase comes from

Most people use “full coverage” to mean carrying liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage together — usually because a lender requires it on a financed or leased vehicle. But “full” doesn't mean every possible gap is closed.

What it usually actually includes

• Liability — covers damage/injury you cause to others
• Comprehensive — covers non-collision events like theft, fire, or hitting an animal
• Collision — covers damage from an accident, regardless of fault

Gaps “full coverage” often doesn't close

• Rental car reimbursement while your car is being repaired
• Roadside assistance for breakdowns
• Gap insurance, which covers the difference if your car is totaled but you still owe more than it's worth
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, for accidents caused by drivers with no or insufficient insurance

The better approach

Instead of asking for “full coverage,” tell your agent what you're actually trying to protect against — your loan payoff, your ability to get around while your car is fixed, or protection from uninsured drivers. That gets you a policy built around your real risk, not just a phrase.