WHAT DOES FULL COVERAGE AUTO INSURANCE MEAN

Understanding "full coverage auto insurance" is crucial for protecting yourself financially. It's not a single policy but a combination of coverages designed to handle a wide range of incidents, from accidents to theft, offering peace of mind on the road. Let's break down what it truly entails.

What Exactly is "Full Coverage" Auto Insurance?

The term "full coverage" is a bit of a misnomer in the insurance world. It doesn't mean you have every conceivable type of coverage available. Instead, it's a common phrase used to describe a policy that includes both collision coverage and comprehensive coverage, in addition to the legally required liability coverage. Think of it as a robust package designed to protect your vehicle from a wide array of damages and losses, not just those caused by at-fault accidents. In 2025, with the increasing complexity of vehicles and rising repair costs, this comprehensive approach is more vital than ever for drivers seeking maximum financial security.

While the name suggests absolute protection, it's important to understand that "full coverage" is a combination of specific policies. The core idea is to cover damage to your own vehicle, regardless of fault, and to protect you from financial ruin if you cause an accident. This contrasts sharply with minimum coverage policies, which often only meet state legal requirements and leave significant gaps in protection.

The Essential Components of Full Coverage

To truly understand what full coverage auto insurance means, we must dissect its primary components. Each plays a distinct role in providing a safety net for drivers. Without these, your protection would be significantly limited, leaving you exposed to substantial financial risks. In 2025, understanding these elements is paramount for making informed decisions about your auto insurance needs.

Here's a breakdown of the essential coverages that typically constitute a "full coverage" policy:

• Liability Coverage: This is the foundation of any auto insurance policy and is legally mandated in almost every state. It covers damages and injuries you cause to others in an accident where you are at fault.
• Collision Coverage: This coverage pays for damage to your own vehicle resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object, such as a fence, tree, or pole, regardless of who is at fault.
• Comprehensive Coverage: This covers damage to your vehicle from non-collision events, such as theft, vandalism, fire, falling objects, natural disasters (like hail or floods), and collisions with animals.

Beyond these three, many policies offer additional optional coverages that can further enhance your protection. These are often bundled into what consumers perceive as "full coverage."

Understanding Collision Coverage

Collision coverage is a critical component of what most people refer to as "full coverage" auto insurance. Its primary purpose is to repair or replace your own vehicle if it's damaged in a collision with another car or object, irrespective of who caused the accident. This is a significant departure from liability coverage, which only addresses damages to others.

What Collision Coverage Typically Pays For:

• Damage from an accident with another vehicle.
• Damage from hitting a stationary object, such as a wall, pole, or tree.
• Damage from rolling your vehicle over.
• Damage from striking a pothole that causes significant damage to your car.

Key Considerations for Collision Coverage:

• Deductible: You'll have a deductible, which is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance company starts paying. Common deductibles range from $250 to $1,000. A higher deductible generally means a lower premium, but you'll pay more if you file a claim.
• Actual Cash Value (ACV): Most policies pay out the actual cash value of your vehicle at the time of the loss, minus your deductible. This means they consider depreciation. If your car is totaled, you'll receive what it was worth just before the accident, not what you originally paid for it.
• Newer Vehicles: For newer cars, especially those financed or leased, collision coverage is almost always required by the lender or leasing company.

For example, if you have a $500 deductible and your car sustains $3,000 in damage from a collision, you would pay $500, and your insurance company would pay the remaining $2,500. If your car is deemed a total loss and its ACV is $10,000, you'd receive $9,500 after your $500 deductible is applied.

Deciphering Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage, often paired with collision, is the other pillar of "full coverage." While collision deals with accidents, comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle from a wide array of non-collision events. These are often unexpected occurrences that can lead to significant damage or the complete loss of your vehicle.

What Comprehensive Coverage Typically Pays For:

• Theft: If your car is stolen, comprehensive coverage will help pay to replace it (up to its actual cash value, minus your deductible).
• Vandalism: Damage caused by malicious acts, such as graffiti, tire slashing, or broken windows.
• Fire: Damage caused by a fire, whether accidental or intentional.
• Natural Disasters: Damage from events like floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, hail, and earthquakes.
• Falling Objects: Damage from things like falling tree branches or debris.
• Animal Collisions: Damage caused by hitting an animal (e.g., a deer). Note: In some states, hitting an animal might be covered under collision, but comprehensive is generally the more appropriate coverage for this.
• Civil Commotion/Riots: Damage that occurs during civil unrest.

Key Considerations for Comprehensive Coverage:

• Deductible: Similar to collision, comprehensive coverage has a deductible that you must pay before the insurance company covers the rest. Deductibles for comprehensive coverage can vary, often ranging from $100 to $500, and sometimes higher.
• Actual Cash Value (ACV): Like collision, comprehensive coverage typically pays out the actual cash value of your vehicle at the time of the loss, less your deductible.
• Animal Strikes: According to the State Farm 2024 claims data, animal collisions are a significant concern, particularly in rural areas and during certain seasons. Comprehensive coverage is your best bet for these incidents.

For instance, if a severe hailstorm damages your car's roof and windows, and you have a $250 comprehensive deductible, you'd pay $250, and your insurer would cover the remaining repair costs, up to the ACV of your vehicle. Similarly, if your car is stolen and never recovered, your insurer would pay its ACV minus your deductible.

The Cornerstone: Liability Coverage

Liability coverage is the bedrock of any auto insurance policy and is legally required in all U.S. states except New Hampshire (though New Hampshire has financial responsibility laws that function similarly). It's designed to protect you financially if you cause an accident that results in injury or property damage to others. This coverage does not pay for damage to your own vehicle; its sole purpose is to cover the costs incurred by the other party involved in an accident where you are deemed at fault.

Liability coverage is typically broken down into two main parts:

1. Bodily Injury Liability (BI):

• This coverage pays for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and legal defense costs if you injure or kill someone in an accident.
• It's usually expressed as two numbers, such as $25,000/$50,000. The first number ($25,000) is the maximum amount the insurance company will pay for injuries to any one person in an accident. The second number ($50,000) is the maximum amount the company will pay for all injuries to all people in a single accident.

2. Property Damage Liability (PD):

• This coverage pays for damage you cause to another person's property in an accident. This most commonly includes damage to their vehicle, but it can also cover damage to fences, buildings, or other property.
• It's usually expressed as a single number, such as $25,000. This is the maximum amount the insurance company will pay for all property damage in a single accident.

Why Liability Coverage is Crucial:

• Legal Requirement: Driving without the minimum required liability coverage can result in hefty fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
• Financial Protection: Accidents can be incredibly expensive. Without adequate liability coverage, you could be personally sued for damages that far exceed your state's minimum requirements, potentially leading to bankruptcy. For instance, a serious accident could result in millions of dollars in medical bills and legal fees.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing you are protected if you accidentally cause harm to others allows you to drive with greater confidence.

2025 Considerations: Medical costs and vehicle repair costs continue to rise. Many experts recommend carrying liability limits significantly higher than the state minimums. For example, carrying 100/300/100 ($100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $100,000 for property damage) is often considered a more prudent level of protection for many drivers in 2025.

Beyond the Basics: Important Optional Coverages

While collision and comprehensive coverage are the core of what people mean by "full coverage," there are several other optional coverages that can significantly enhance your protection and financial security. These are often bundled into a comprehensive policy and are highly recommended for drivers in 2025, given the rising costs of vehicle ownership and repairs.

1. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage:

• This is arguably one of the most important optional coverages. It protects you if you're involved in an accident with a driver who has no insurance (uninsured) or not enough insurance to cover your damages (underinsured).
• Uninsured Motorist (UM): Covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering if an uninsured driver hits you.
• Underinsured Motorist (UIM): Covers the difference between what the at-fault driver's insurance will pay and your actual damages, up to your UIM policy limits.
• UM/UIM Property Damage: In some states, this can also cover damage to your vehicle if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.
• Statistics for 2025: According to the Insurance Research Council, approximately 12.6% of drivers nationwide were uninsured in 2023, a figure projected to remain a concern in 2025. This makes UM/UIM coverage essential.

2. Medical Payments (MedPay) or Personal Injury Protection (PIP):

• MedPay: Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of who is at fault. It typically has lower limits than PIP.
• PIP: A no-fault coverage that pays for medical expenses, lost wages, and sometimes even essential services (like childcare) for you and your passengers, regardless of fault. PIP is mandatory in "no-fault" states.

3. Rental Reimbursement Coverage:

• This coverage helps pay for a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered claim (collision or comprehensive).
• Policies typically have daily and maximum limits (e.g., $30 per day, up to $900 total).

4. Roadside Assistance/Towing and Labor:

• Covers the cost of towing your disabled vehicle, jump-starts, tire changes, fuel delivery, and lockout services.
• This is a convenient add-on that can save you money and hassle when you're stranded.

5. New Car Replacement Coverage:

• If your relatively new car is totaled, this coverage will pay to replace it with a brand-new car of the same make and model, rather than just its depreciated actual cash value.
• Typically available for vehicles that are a few years old or less and have low mileage.

6. Gap Insurance:

• Crucial for drivers who finance or lease a new car. If your car is totaled, and its actual cash value is less than the amount you owe on your loan or lease, gap insurance covers the difference (the "gap").
• Example: You owe $25,000 on your car, but it's only worth $20,000 after an accident. Gap insurance would cover the $5,000 difference.

Including these optional coverages transforms a basic "full coverage" policy into a truly comprehensive protection plan, vital for navigating the financial uncertainties of driving in 2025.

Full Coverage vs. Minimum Coverage: A Crucial Distinction

The difference between "full coverage" and "minimum coverage" auto insurance is vast and directly impacts your financial well-being in the event of an accident. Understanding this distinction is fundamental to making an informed decision about your insurance needs.

Minimum Coverage:

• This refers to the least amount of insurance coverage legally required by your state. It primarily consists of liability insurance (bodily injury and property damage).
• Pros: It's the cheapest option available, which can be appealing to budget-conscious drivers.
• Cons: It offers very little protection for your own vehicle or for you and your passengers if you're involved in an accident. The limits are often so low that they are insufficient to cover the costs of a serious accident, leaving you personally liable for any expenses beyond the policy limits.
• Example: If your state requires 25/50/25 liability limits, and you cause an accident resulting in $100,000 in medical bills for the other driver and $30,000 in damage to their car, your minimum coverage would pay $50,000 towards medical bills and $25,000 towards property damage. You would be personally responsible for the remaining $50,000 in medical bills and $5,000 in property damage.

Full Coverage:

• As discussed, this is a combination of liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, often supplemented with other optional coverages like UM/UIM and rental reimbursement.
• Pros: It provides significantly broader protection, covering damage to your own vehicle from accidents, theft, and other non-collision events, as well as protecting you from uninsured/underinsured motorists and offering additional conveniences. It offers peace of mind knowing you're financially protected against a wider range of risks.
• Cons: It is more expensive than minimum coverage due to the increased protection it offers.
• Example: With full coverage, if you cause an accident with $100,000 in medical bills and $30,000 in property damage, and you have higher liability limits (e.g., 100/300/100), your insurance would cover these costs up to your policy limits. If your car is then damaged in a collision or stolen, your collision and comprehensive coverage would pay for the repairs or replacement (minus your deductibles).

The 2025 Perspective: With rising vehicle values, increasing repair costs, and the persistent risk of uninsured drivers, relying on minimum coverage in 2025 is a gamble that can have devastating financial consequences. Full coverage, while costing more upfront, offers a crucial layer of financial security that is increasingly necessary.

Who Should Consider Full Coverage?

While the term "full coverage" is a blanket term, the decision to purchase it depends on individual circumstances, financial situations, and risk tolerance. In 2025, several key factors suggest that a broader scope of coverage is advisable for a significant portion of drivers.

1. Drivers with Financed or Leased Vehicles:

• If you have a loan or lease on your vehicle, the lender or leasing company will almost certainly require you to carry collision and comprehensive coverage. They want to protect their investment.
• This is non-negotiable for newer or valuable vehicles still being paid off.

2. Drivers with Newer or Valuable Vehicles:

• If your car is worth a significant amount of money, the cost to repair it after an accident or replace it if stolen would be substantial. Collision and comprehensive coverage are essential to protect this investment.
• For example, a car worth $30,000 would incur significant out-of-pocket costs if it were totaled without these coverages.

3. Drivers Who Cannot Afford to Repair or Replace Their Vehicle:

• If losing your car or paying thousands of dollars for repairs would cause significant financial hardship, then full coverage is a wise investment.
• This applies even if you own your car outright. Can you comfortably afford a $5,000 repair bill or a $20,000 replacement cost if something happens tomorrow?

4. Drivers Who Want Protection Against Non-Collision Events:

• Comprehensive coverage protects against theft, vandalism, natural disasters, and animal collisions. If you live in an area prone to these events or are concerned about theft, this coverage is invaluable.
• Consider the frequency of hail storms, floods, or deer-related accidents in your region.

5. Drivers Who Want Broader Liability Protection:

• While not strictly part of "full coverage" in the sense of vehicle damage, many drivers opt for higher liability limits alongside collision and comprehensive. This protects their assets (savings, home) in the event of a severe at-fault accident.
• If you have significant assets, carrying only state minimum liability limits is a risky proposition.

6. Drivers Who Value Peace of Mind:

• For many, the extra cost of full coverage is well worth the peace of mind that comes from knowing they are protected against a wide range of potential financial losses related to their vehicle.

When Minimum Coverage Might Suffice (with caveats):

• Older vehicles with very low market value, where the cost of collision and comprehensive premiums might exceed the car's worth.
• Drivers with substantial savings who can comfortably afford to repair or replace their vehicle out-of-pocket and are willing to accept the risk.
• Drivers in states with very high minimum coverage requirements, though even then, these are often insufficient for serious accidents.

In 2025, with the rising costs associated with vehicle ownership and the increasing complexity of insurance claims, the argument for full coverage becomes stronger for a larger segment of the driving population.

How Much Does Full Coverage Auto Insurance Cost?

The cost of full coverage auto insurance is not a one-size-fits-all figure. It varies significantly from driver to driver and from insurer to insurer. However, it's generally more expensive than minimum coverage policies because it provides a much broader scope of protection.

General Cost Comparison:

• On average, full coverage can cost anywhere from 50% to 100% more than minimum liability-only coverage.
• For 2025, national averages for full coverage can range from approximately $1,500 to $2,500 per year, or roughly $125 to $200 per month. However, this is a very broad estimate.

Key Factors Influencing Your Premium:

Several critical factors determine how much you'll pay for full coverage. Understanding these can help you anticipate costs and identify areas where you might be able to reduce your premium.

1. Your Driving Record:

• A clean driving record with no accidents or violations is the biggest factor in securing lower rates.
• Conversely, speeding tickets, at-fault accidents, DUIs, and other moving violations will significantly increase your premium.

2. Your Vehicle:

• Make and Model: Luxury cars, sports cars, and vehicles with high theft rates are more expensive to insure.
• Age of Vehicle: Newer vehicles generally cost more to insure with full coverage due to their higher value and repair costs.
• Safety Features: Vehicles with advanced safety features (e.g., anti-lock brakes, airbags, anti-theft devices) may qualify for discounts.
• Engine Size/Performance: More powerful engines can sometimes lead to higher premiums.

3. Your Location:

• Geographic Area: Premiums vary significantly by state and even by ZIP code. Areas with higher rates of accidents, theft, vandalism, and severe weather tend to have higher insurance costs.
• For example, urban areas often have higher rates than rural areas due to increased traffic density and accident frequency.

4. Your Age and Gender:

• Younger, less experienced drivers (especially males under 25) typically pay higher premiums due to their statistically higher risk of accidents.
• Premiums generally decrease as drivers gain experience and age.

5. Your Credit-Based Insurance Score:

• In most states, insurance companies use a credit-based insurance score to help predict the likelihood of a claim. Individuals with better credit scores typically receive lower premiums.
• (Note: California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Michigan have restrictions on using credit scores for auto insurance pricing.)

6. Your Deductibles:

• Choosing higher deductibles for collision and comprehensive coverage will lower your premium. However, remember that you'll have to pay more out-of-pocket if you file a claim.
• For example, increasing your deductible from $500 to $1,000 could save you hundreds of dollars per year on your premium.

7. Coverage Limits and Optional Coverages:

• The higher your liability limits, the more you'll pay.
• Adding optional coverages like rental reimbursement, roadside assistance, or new car replacement will also increase your premium.

8. Annual Mileage:

• Drivers who drive fewer miles annually typically pay less for insurance because they are on the road less often, reducing their risk of an accident.

9. Insurer's Pricing Structure:

• Each insurance company has its own algorithms and pricing models, so rates can vary significantly between insurers for the exact same coverage. Shopping around is crucial.

To get an accurate estimate for 2025, you must obtain personalized quotes from multiple insurance providers.

Key Factors Influencing Your Full Coverage Premium

Understanding the specific elements that drive the cost of full coverage auto insurance is crucial for managing your budget and potentially finding ways to lower your premiums. While the overall cost is a sum of many parts, certain factors have a more significant impact than others. In 2025, insurers continue to refine these metrics to assess risk more accurately.

Here's a deeper dive into the most influential factors:

2025 Trends: Insurers are increasingly leveraging telematics (driving apps or devices) to gather real-time data on driving habits like speed, braking, and mileage. This allows for more personalized pricing, potentially rewarding safe drivers with lower premiums. However, it also means that risky driving behaviors could lead to higher costs.

Understanding these factors is the first step toward managing your full coverage insurance costs effectively. By focusing on maintaining a clean driving record, choosing appropriate deductibles, and shopping around, you can find the best balance of protection and affordability.

How to Get a Full Coverage Auto Insurance Quote

Obtaining a quote for full coverage auto insurance is a straightforward process, but it requires you to gather specific information and shop around to find the best rates. In 2025, technology has made this easier than ever, with online tools and mobile apps available from most major insurers.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Quote:

1. Gather Necessary Information:

• Personal Details: Your full name, date of birth, address, and driver's license number for all drivers to be listed on the policy.
• Vehicle Information: Year, make, model, VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), and current mileage for each vehicle.
• Driving History: Information about recent accidents, traffic violations, and any other drivers on the policy's driving history.
• Current Insurance (if applicable): Details about your current policy, including coverage limits and expiration date.
• Lienholder Information: If your car is financed or leased, you'll need the name and address of the lender or leasing company.

2. Determine Your Desired Coverage:

• Liability Limits: Decide on appropriate bodily injury and property damage liability limits. Consider limits higher than state minimums for better protection (e.g., 100/300/100).
• Collision and Comprehensive: Determine the deductible you're comfortable with for these coverages. Higher deductibles lower premiums but increase out-of-pocket costs in case of a claim.
• Optional Coverages: Consider adding UM/UIM, MedPay/PIP, rental reimbursement, roadside assistance, and gap insurance based on your needs and budget.

3. Shop Around:

• Online Quoting Tools: Most major insurance companies (e.g., State Farm, GEICO, Progressive, Allstate) have online quote engines on their websites.
• Insurance Brokers/Agents: Independent agents can compare quotes from multiple insurance carriers on your behalf, saving you time and effort.
• Aggregator Websites: Websites like NerdWallet, Policygenius, or The Zebra allow you to compare quotes from various insurers side-by-side.

4. Be Honest and Accurate:

• Providing accurate information is crucial. Misrepresenting details can lead to your policy being canceled or claims being denied.

5. Review and Compare Quotes:

• Don't just look at the total price. Compare the coverage limits, deductibles, and included optional coverages for each quote.
• Pay attention to the reputation and customer service ratings of the insurance companies.

6. Ask Questions:

• If anything is unclear, don't hesitate to ask the insurance agent or representative. Clarify what is and isn't covered.

7. Consider Discounts:

• Inquire about all available discounts, such as multi-policy, safe driver, good student, anti-theft device, and low-mileage discounts.

Example of Information Needed:

When getting a quote, you might be asked:

• "What is the VIN of your 2023 Toyota Camry?"
• "Have you had any at-fault accidents in the last 5 years?"
• "What is your current insurance provider and policy number?"
• "What are your desired liability limits?"
• "What deductible would you like for collision and comprehensive?"

By following these steps and being prepared with the necessary information, you can efficiently obtain quotes for full coverage auto insurance and make an informed decision in 2025.

What to Do When You Need to Make a Full Coverage Claim

Experiencing an accident or discovering damage to your vehicle can be stressful. Knowing the steps to take when filing a claim under your full coverage policy can make the process smoother and ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to. In 2025, having a clear understanding of the claims process is essential for a swift resolution.

Steps to Take After an Incident:

1. Ensure Safety First:

• If the incident involves a collision, check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services immediately.
• Move vehicles to a safe location if possible and if it's safe to do so.
• Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.

2. Contact the Police (if necessary):

• For serious accidents, accidents involving injuries, or if you suspect a crime (like hit-and-run or theft), call the police.
• A police report can be crucial documentation for your insurance claim.

3. Gather Information:

• Other Driver(s): Collect their name, address, phone number, insurance company, and policy number.
• Witnesses: If there are witnesses, get their names and contact information.
• Scene Details: Note the location, date, time, and weather conditions. Take photos or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any contributing factors (e.g., road conditions, traffic signals).
• For Non-Collision Claims (Theft, Vandalism, etc.): Document the damage thoroughly with photos and gather any relevant police reports or evidence.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly:

• Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible, ideally within 24-48 hours of the incident. Most insurers have dedicated claims departments and 24/7 hotlines or online portals for reporting claims.
• Have your policy number ready.

5. Provide Accurate Details:

• Be honest and provide all the information you gathered. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating or admitting fault prematurely.
• The insurance company will assign a claims adjuster to your case.

6. Cooperate with the Adjuster:

• The adjuster will investigate the claim, assess the damage, and determine liability.
• They may ask for additional documentation, photos, or statements. Cooperate fully to expedite the process.

7. Get Repair Estimates:

• Your insurer may recommend specific repair shops (often called "preferred" or "network" shops), which can streamline the process and sometimes offer guarantees on repairs.
• You typically have the right to choose your own repair shop. Your insurer will likely review estimates from your chosen shop.

8. Understand Your Coverage:

• Know your deductibles for collision and comprehensive coverage. You'll be responsible for paying your deductible to the repair shop.
• Understand your policy limits for liability and other coverages.

9. Settlement and Payment:

• Once liability is determined and damages are assessed, the insurance company will offer a settlement.
• If your car is totaled, they will offer the actual cash value of the vehicle minus your deductible.
• If it's repairable, they will pay the repair shop directly (minus your deductible), or you may receive a check to cover the repairs.

Example Scenario:

You're in a fender-bender. You collect the other driver's information, take photos of the damage, and call your insurer. The adjuster assesses the damage to your car, which costs $4,000 to repair. You have a $500 collision deductible. Your insurer will pay $3,500 directly to the repair shop, and you will pay the remaining $500 deductible to the shop.

Navigating the claims process requires patience and clear communication. By following these steps, you can ensure a more efficient and less stressful experience when utilizing your full coverage insurance in 2025.

Final Thoughts on Full Coverage Auto Insurance

In conclusion, "full coverage" auto insurance is not a single policy but a robust combination of essential coverages – liability, collision, and comprehensive – designed to offer comprehensive protection for your vehicle and financial well-being. In 2025, with rising vehicle values, increasing repair costs, and the persistent risk of uninsured drivers, understanding and opting for this level of coverage is more critical than ever for most drivers.

It safeguards you from the financial devastation of at-fault accidents, covers damage to your own vehicle from collisions, and protects against a wide array of non-collision events like theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. Furthermore, incorporating optional coverages like uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) and rental reimbursement can significantly bolster your safety net. While it comes at a higher premium than minimum coverage, the peace of mind and financial security it provides are invaluable. We strongly recommend that drivers with financed vehicles, newer cars, or those who couldn't afford substantial repair or replacement costs out-of-pocket, prioritize obtaining full coverage. Thoroughly compare quotes from multiple insurers, understand your policy details, and select deductibles that align with your financial comfort level to secure the best possible protection.