WHATS FULL COVERAGE AUTO INSURANCE

Understanding "what's full coverage auto insurance" is crucial for protecting your vehicle and finances. This comprehensive guide breaks down what full coverage entails, its benefits, and how it differs from liability-only policies, ensuring you make informed decisions for 2025.

What Exactly Is Full Coverage Auto Insurance?

When drivers talk about "full coverage auto insurance," they're generally referring to a combination of different types of car insurance that provide a more extensive level of protection than just the state-mandated minimums. It's not a single policy type but rather a bundle of coverages designed to protect you, your passengers, your vehicle, and other people's property in a wider array of scenarios. In essence, it's about having peace of mind knowing you're covered for a multitude of potential incidents, from fender-benders to major accidents and even non-collision events. For 2025, understanding this multifaceted approach to insurance is more important than ever as vehicle values fluctuate and repair costs continue to rise.

The term "full coverage" is a bit of a misnomer, as no single policy can cover absolutely everything. However, it signifies a robust package that typically includes liability insurance, collision insurance, and comprehensive insurance. This trio forms the bedrock of what most people mean when they ask, "What's full coverage auto insurance?" It goes beyond just covering damage you cause to others; it also addresses damage to your own car and losses from events outside of your control.

The Core Components of Full Coverage

To truly grasp what constitutes full coverage, it's essential to break down its primary components. Each plays a distinct role in providing a safety net for drivers.

Liability Insurance: The Foundation

Liability insurance is the cornerstone of any auto insurance policy, including full coverage. It's legally required in almost every state and is designed to cover damages you cause to others if you are at fault in an accident. It does not cover damage to your own vehicle or your own injuries. Liability coverage is split into two parts:

• Bodily Injury Liability (BI): This covers medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering for individuals injured in an accident that you cause. Policies usually have per-person and per-accident limits. For example, a policy might have limits of $50,000/$100,000, meaning it will pay up to $50,000 for injuries to any one person and up to $100,000 for all injuries in a single accident.
• Property Damage Liability (PD): This covers the cost of repairing or replacing property you damage in an accident, such as other vehicles, fences, buildings, or other structures. Policies typically have a per-accident limit, for instance, $25,000.

While state minimums are often quite low (e.g., $25,000/$50,000/$25,000), most financial advisors and insurance experts recommend carrying significantly higher liability limits, especially if you own assets like a home or have substantial savings. This is because accident costs can easily exceed minimum coverage amounts, leaving you personally responsible for the difference.

Collision Insurance: Protecting Your Vehicle in Accidents

Collision insurance is a critical component of full coverage. It pays for the repair or replacement of your own vehicle if it's damaged in a collision with another object, such as a car, tree, or guardrail, or if it overturns. This coverage applies regardless of who is at fault for the accident.

Collision coverage typically has a deductible, which is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in. Common deductibles range from $250 to $1,000 or more. A higher deductible generally results in a lower premium, but you'll have to pay more if you file a claim. For example, if you have a $500 deductible and your car sustains $3,000 in collision damage, you would pay $500, and your insurer would pay the remaining $2,500.

Key takeaway: Collision insurance is specifically for damage resulting from a crash.

Comprehensive Insurance: Beyond Collisions

Comprehensive insurance, often referred to as "other than collision" coverage, protects your vehicle from damage caused by events that are not collisions. This is a vital part of what makes a policy "full coverage."

Examples of events covered by comprehensive insurance include:

• Theft of your vehicle
• Vandalism
• Fire
• Falling objects (e.g., tree branches)
• Natural disasters (e.g., hail, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes)
• Animal collisions (e.g., hitting a deer)
• Civil commotion or riot damage
• Windshield damage (though some policies have separate, lower deductibles for glass claims)

Like collision insurance, comprehensive coverage also typically comes with a deductible. The deductible amount is usually the same as your collision deductible, but it's worth checking your policy details.

Key takeaway: Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your car from non-collision events.

Optional, But Often Included in "Full Coverage" Discussions

While liability, collision, and comprehensive are the core, many people consider other coverages when they think of "full coverage" because they add significant protection.

Medical Payments (MedPay) or Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

These coverages help pay for medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of who is at fault in an accident.

• MedPay: Generally covers medical and funeral expenses up to a specified limit. It's available in most states.
• PIP: Is more comprehensive and can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and essential services (like childcare) if you're unable to perform them due to an accident. PIP is mandatory in "no-fault" states, where each driver's insurance covers their own injuries and damages, regardless of fault.

These coverages can be particularly valuable if you have a high health insurance deductible or lack health insurance.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage

This coverage 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 Bodily Injury (UMBI): Covers your medical expenses and lost wages.
• Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD): Covers damage to your vehicle. Some states require a deductible for UMPD, while others waive it if the uninsured driver is identified.
• Underinsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UIMBI): Covers the gap between what the at-fault driver's insurance will pay and the total cost of your injuries and losses.
• Underinsured Motorist Property Damage (UIMPD): Covers damage to your vehicle when the at-fault driver's property damage liability limits are insufficient.

Given that a significant percentage of drivers are uninsured or underinsured (statistics vary by state, but in some areas, it can be as high as 20-30% in 2025), this coverage is highly recommended for robust protection.

Rental Car Reimbursement

If your car is damaged in a covered incident and is in the shop for repairs, this coverage helps pay for a rental car. It's typically offered with daily and total limits.

Roadside Assistance / Towing and Labor

This covers services like towing, battery jump-starts, flat tire changes, and lockout assistance.

Liability-Only vs. Full Coverage: A Crucial Distinction

The fundamental difference between liability-only insurance and full coverage lies in what each policy protects. Understanding this distinction is key to choosing the right insurance for your needs and financial situation in 2025.

Liability-Only Insurance

Liability-only insurance, as the name suggests, primarily covers damages you cause to others. It includes:

• Bodily Injury Liability
• Property Damage Liability

This is the minimum level of insurance required by law in most states. If you are at fault in an accident, your liability insurance will pay for the other party's medical bills and property damage, up to your policy limits. However, it will not pay for any repairs to your own vehicle or for your own medical expenses.

Who typically opts for liability-only?

• Drivers of older, low-value vehicles where the cost of comprehensive and collision coverage might exceed the car's worth.
• Drivers who are financially secure and can afford to pay for repairs or replacement of their own vehicle out-of-pocket if an accident occurs.
• Drivers who are looking to minimize their insurance premiums.

Full Coverage Insurance

Full coverage, as discussed, is a bundle that includes liability insurance PLUS collision and comprehensive coverage. It may also include other add-ons like MedPay/PIP and UM/UIM.

Key differences and benefits of full coverage:

• Protects your vehicle: Collision and comprehensive cover damage to your own car, whether from an accident, theft, or natural disaster.
• Broader protection: Covers a wider range of incidents beyond just at-fault accidents.
• Required by lenders: If you have a car loan or lease, your lender will almost certainly require you to carry full coverage to protect their investment.

Comparison Table: Liability-Only vs. Full Coverage

Here's a simplified comparison to highlight the differences:

Who Should Consider Full Coverage Auto Insurance?

The decision to opt for full coverage auto insurance depends heavily on your individual circumstances, financial situation, and the value of your vehicle. While it comes at a higher cost than liability-only, the protection it offers can be invaluable.

Drivers with Car Loans or Leases

This is perhaps the most straightforward reason to carry full coverage. If you finance your vehicle, meaning you have a loan or lease agreement, the lender or leasing company has a financial stake in the car. They will mandate that you carry collision and comprehensive coverage to protect their asset. They want to ensure that if the car is damaged or stolen, it can be repaired or replaced, allowing you to continue making payments or for them to recoup their investment. Failure to maintain this coverage can lead to default on your loan or lease.

Drivers of Newer or High-Value Vehicles

If your car is relatively new, has a high market value, or is a model that's expensive to repair, full coverage is a wise investment. The cost of repairing significant damage to a new car can easily run into thousands of dollars, often exceeding the cost of the collision and comprehensive premiums for several years. For example, repairing advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in modern vehicles can be extremely costly.

Example: A 2023 SUV might be worth $40,000. If it's totaled in an accident, collision coverage would pay out its actual cash value (ACV), minus your deductible. Without it, you'd be responsible for replacing it entirely.

Drivers Who Cannot Afford to Replace Their Car

This is a fundamental financial consideration. If losing your car to an accident, theft, or natural disaster would significantly disrupt your life and you couldn't afford to buy a replacement vehicle out-of-pocket, then full coverage is essential. It provides a financial safety net, ensuring you can get back on the road without facing a catastrophic financial burden.

Drivers Who Want Comprehensive Protection

Beyond financial necessity, many drivers simply value the peace of mind that comes with knowing they are protected against a wide range of risks. This includes protection against:

• Theft
• Vandalism
• Damage from severe weather (hail, floods, wind)
• Animal collisions
• Accidents where you might be at fault

For these drivers, the added cost of full coverage is a worthwhile trade-off for enhanced security and reduced worry.

Drivers in Areas Prone to Certain Risks

If you live in an area with a high incidence of:

• Theft: Comprehensive coverage is vital.
• Severe Weather: Hailstorms, floods, or wildfires necessitate comprehensive coverage.
• Animal Crossings: Especially in rural areas, comprehensive covers damage from hitting deer or other wildlife.

Drivers Who Want to Protect Their Investment

Even if you own your car outright, it represents a significant financial asset. Full coverage helps protect that asset from depreciation due to damage or loss.

When Might Full Coverage NOT Be Necessary?

Conversely, full coverage might be less critical if:

• Your car is very old and has a low market value: If the car's value is less than the cost of your deductible, or if the premiums for collision and comprehensive would be disproportionately high compared to the car's worth, liability-only might be more sensible. For instance, a car worth $3,000 might not warrant $800 collision and $600 comprehensive premiums, especially with a $500 deductible.
• You can easily afford to replace your car: If you have substantial savings and could buy a comparable vehicle without financial strain, you might choose to self-insure your own vehicle's damage.
• Your car is a secondary vehicle with very low mileage: If the car is rarely driven, the risk of an accident or theft is lower, potentially making full coverage less essential.

What Influences the Cost of Full Coverage?

The price of full coverage auto insurance isn't a one-size-fits-all figure. It's a complex calculation based on numerous factors that insurance companies use to assess risk. Understanding these factors can help you anticipate costs and identify potential areas where you might be able to lower your premiums in 2025.

1. Your Driving Record

This is arguably the most significant factor. A clean driving record with no accidents, tickets, or DUIs will result in lower premiums. Conversely, a history of moving violations, at-fault accidents, or claims will lead to higher rates, as you're perceived as a higher risk.

2. Your Location (ZIP Code)

Where you live plays a substantial role. Rates can vary dramatically by state, city, and even neighborhood. Factors influencing this include:

• Theft and Vandalism Rates: Areas with higher crime rates tend to have higher premiums.
• Accident Frequency: Densely populated urban areas with heavy traffic often see more accidents.
• Weather Patterns: Regions prone to severe weather like hail or floods may have higher comprehensive rates.
• Cost of Repairs: Labor and parts costs can vary by region.

3. The Type of Vehicle You Drive

The make, model, year, and safety features of your car all impact your premium.

• Value of the Vehicle: More expensive cars cost more to repair or replace.
• Repair Costs: Cars with specialized parts or complex technology can be more expensive to fix.
• Safety Ratings: Vehicles with better safety records may sometimes qualify for discounts.
• Theft Risk: Certain models are more frequently targeted by thieves.
• Engine Size/Performance: Sports cars or vehicles with powerful engines might have higher rates due to their perceived higher risk of speeding and accidents.

4. Your Age and Gender

Insurance companies have historically used age and gender as rating factors, as statistical data shows differences in driving behaviors and accident rates among different demographics. Younger, less experienced drivers generally pay more. In many states, young male drivers face the highest premiums. However, some states prohibit gender-based pricing.

5. Your Coverage Levels and Deductibles

This is where you have direct control over your premium.

• Higher Liability Limits: More coverage means higher premiums.
• Collision and Comprehensive Deductibles: Choosing a lower deductible (e.g., $250) will increase your premium, while opting for a higher deductible (e.g., $1,000) will decrease it.
• Optional Coverages: Adding extras like rental reimbursement or roadside assistance will increase the overall cost.

6. Your Credit Score

In most states (excluding California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts), insurance companies use credit-based insurance scores to help predict the likelihood of filing a claim. Statistically, individuals with better credit scores tend to file fewer claims. A good credit score can lead to significant discounts.

7. Your Annual Mileage

The more miles you drive, the higher your risk of being involved in an accident. Insurers will ask for your estimated annual mileage. If you drive less than average (e.g., due to working from home or using public transport), you may qualify for lower rates.

8. Your Claims History

The number and type of insurance claims you've filed in the past will affect your rates. At-fault accidents and comprehensive claims (like theft or vandalism) typically have a greater impact than not-at-fault accidents.

9. Discounts

Insurers offer various discounts that can significantly reduce your premium. These may include:

• Multi-policy discounts (bundling auto with home or renters insurance)
• Multi-vehicle discounts
• Good student discounts (for young drivers)
• Safe driver discounts (for maintaining a clean record)
• Low mileage discounts
• Discounts for safety features (e.g., anti-theft devices)
• Affiliation discounts (e.g., membership in certain professional organizations)
• Paperless billing or automatic payment discounts

2025 Premium Snapshot (Illustrative)

While actual costs vary wildly, here are some illustrative average annual full coverage premiums for 2025, based on general trends. These are rough estimates and can be significantly higher or lower based on the factors above.

• Average Full Coverage Premium: $1,700 - $2,500 per year
• For drivers with good records and average risk profiles: $1,500 - $2,000
• For drivers with some risk factors (e.g., young driver, minor tickets): $2,200 - $3,500+
• For drivers with major risk factors (e.g., recent at-fault accident, DUIs): $4,000+ (and potentially difficulty finding coverage)

It's crucial to get personalized quotes from multiple insurers to understand your specific costs.

How to Obtain Full Coverage Auto Insurance

Securing full coverage auto insurance is a straightforward process, but it requires a bit of research and comparison to ensure you get the best policy at a competitive price. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Assess Your Needs

Before you start shopping, determine what level of coverage you truly need. Consider:

• Your Vehicle's Value: Is it new, used, high-value, or low-value?
• Your Financial Situation: Can you afford to replace your car if it's totaled? Do you have a loan or lease?
• Your Risk Tolerance: How much peace of mind are you willing to pay for?
• Your State's Requirements: While full coverage exceeds minimums, know what's mandated.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Information

Insurance companies will need specific details to provide accurate quotes. Have the following ready:

• Personal Information: Your driver's license number, date of birth, and Social Security number.
• Vehicle Information: Make, model, year, VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), and any safety or anti-theft features.
• Driving History: Information about recent accidents, tickets, and claims for all drivers on the policy.
• Current Insurance Information: If you have existing coverage, policy number and coverage details.
• Annual Mileage: Your estimated yearly mileage.

Step 3: Research Insurance Providers

There are many ways to find insurance:

• Direct Insurers: Companies like Geico, Progressive, and State Farm sell policies directly to consumers online or over the phone.
• Independent Agents/Brokers: These professionals work with multiple insurance companies and can shop around for you to find the best rates and coverage options. They can be particularly helpful if you have a complex situation or unique needs.
• Online Comparison Tools: Websites aggregate quotes from various insurers, allowing you to compare prices side-by-side. Be aware that not all insurers participate in these tools.

Step 4: Get Multiple Quotes

This is the most critical step for saving money. Prices for the exact same coverage can vary significantly between insurers. Aim to get at least 3-5 quotes from different companies.

When comparing quotes, ensure you are comparing apples to apples. Look at:

• Liability limits (BI and PD)
• Collision coverage deductible
• Comprehensive coverage deductible
• Any optional coverages included (MedPay, PIP, UM/UIM, rental reimbursement, etc.)

Step 5: Inquire About Discounts

Don't forget to ask about all available discounts. Even small discounts can add up. Common discounts include:

• Bundling multiple policies (home, renters, auto)
• Having multiple vehicles insured with the same company
• Good student or safe driver records
• Low annual mileage
• Installation of anti-theft devices
• Paperless billing or automatic payments

Step 6: Review Policy Details Carefully

Once you've chosen a provider, thoroughly review the policy documents before signing. Pay close attention to:

• Coverage Limits: Ensure they meet your needs.
• Deductibles: Confirm the amounts for collision and comprehensive.
• Exclusions: Understand what is NOT covered by the policy.
• Policy Term: Note the start and end dates of your coverage.

Step 7: Purchase Your Policy

After reviewing and agreeing to the terms, you can purchase your policy. This usually involves making an initial payment. You'll receive your insurance ID cards and policy documents, which you must keep in your vehicle.

Step 8: Notify Your Lender (If Applicable)

If you have a car loan or lease, provide your lender with proof of your new insurance policy, including the policy number and coverage details. They will likely require you to add them as a lienholder or loss payee.

Step 9: Maintain and Re-evaluate Periodically

Your insurance needs can change over time. Re-evaluate your coverage annually or when significant life events occur (e.g., moving, purchasing a new car, changes in driving habits). Also, shop around for new quotes every 6-12 months, as rates and available discounts can change.

Maximizing the Value of Your Full Coverage Policy

Full coverage auto insurance is an investment in your financial security. To ensure you're getting the most out of your premiums in 2025, consider these strategies for maximizing its value:

1. Choose the Right Deductible

Your deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your collision or comprehensive coverage kicks in. While a lower deductible means less out-of-pocket expense in the event of a claim, it also means higher premiums.

• Assess your emergency fund: Can you comfortably afford a $1,000 deductible if needed? If so, opting for a higher deductible can significantly lower your annual premium.
• Balance: Find a deductible amount that offers a noticeable premium reduction while remaining affordable for you to pay if a claim arises.

2. Take Advantage of Discounts

Insurers offer a wide array of discounts that can substantially reduce your full coverage costs. Always ask your agent or insurer about all available discounts. Common ones include:

• Bundling: Insuring your home or renters policy with the same company as your auto insurance.
• Multi-Car: Insuring multiple vehicles with the same insurer.
• Safe Driver: Maintaining a clean driving record.
• Low Mileage: Driving fewer miles than average.
• Safety Features: Anti-lock brakes, airbags, anti-theft systems.
• Good Student: For young drivers with good grades.
• Paperless Billing/Auto Pay: For convenience and reduced administrative costs for the insurer.

3. Bundle Your Policies

As mentioned, bundling auto insurance with other policies, such as homeowners or renters insurance, often results in a multi-policy discount. This can be a significant saving, and it simplifies your insurance management by having fewer bills to track.

4. Shop Around Regularly

Insurance rates are not static. They can change based on your driving record, location, vehicle, and the insurer's own pricing adjustments. It's highly recommended to shop for new quotes at least once a year, or whenever you experience a significant life change (like moving or getting married). You might find that another insurer offers better rates for the same level of coverage.

5. Understand Your Coverage Needs

Don't pay for coverage you don't need. As your vehicle ages and depreciates, the value of collision and comprehensive coverage may diminish.

• Older Cars: If your car's market value is less than the cost of your deductible, or if the premiums for collision and comprehensive significantly outweigh the car's worth, you might consider dropping these coverages and opting for liability-only.
• Review Annually: Re-evaluate the value of your car and your financial ability to cover potential losses without full coverage.

6. Consider Usage-Based Insurance (UBI) or Telematics

Many insurers now offer programs where a device in your car or a mobile app tracks your driving habits (e.g., speed, braking, mileage, time of day). If you're a safe driver, these programs can lead to significant discounts on your full coverage premiums. Be sure to understand the privacy implications and how your data will be used.

7. Ask About Accident Forgiveness

Some insurers offer "accident forgiveness" programs. This means that if you have a minor accident, your rates won't increase the next time you renew your policy. This can be a valuable perk, especially for drivers who may be prone to the occasional mishap. Eligibility and terms vary widely.

8. Maintain a Good Driving Record

This is the most impactful way to keep your full coverage premiums affordable. Avoid speeding tickets, at-fault accidents, and DUIs. Safe driving is not only responsible but also financially rewarding.

9. Pay Your Premium Annually or Semi-Annually

Many insurers offer a discount if you pay your premium in full for a six-month or twelve-month term, rather than on a monthly basis. This saves the insurer administrative costs and can be passed on to you as savings.

Debunking Common Misconceptions About Full Coverage

The term "full coverage" is often used loosely, leading to misunderstandings about what it actually entails. Here, we address some common misconceptions to provide clarity for 2025.

Misconception 1: "Full Coverage" Covers Absolutely Everything

Reality: As mentioned earlier, no insurance policy can cover every single possible scenario. "Full coverage" is a colloquial term for a combination of liability, collision, and comprehensive insurance. It typically does not cover:

• Routine maintenance (oil changes, tire rotations)
• Wear and tear on your vehicle
• Mechanical breakdowns (unless specifically added as a separate mechanical breakdown insurance policy)
• Damage from intentional acts (e.g., if you deliberately crash your car)
• Rideshare driving (often requires a specific endorsement)

It's crucial to read your policy document to understand its limitations and exclusions.

Misconception 2: Full Coverage is a Single Policy Type

Reality: "Full coverage" isn't a standalone product. It's a package of different coverages bundled together. You won't find a policy simply labeled "Full Coverage" on an insurance company's product list. Instead, you'll select liability, collision, and comprehensive, and potentially other add-ons.

Misconception 3: If I Have Full Coverage, My Rates Won't Go Up After an Accident

Reality: While collision and comprehensive cover damage to your vehicle regardless of fault, your rates are likely to increase after an at-fault accident, especially if you file a claim. Even if the accident wasn't your fault, some insurers may still adjust your rates based on the overall increase in claims in your area or if the other driver was uninsured. However, some policies offer "accident forgiveness" which can mitigate this.

Misconception 4: Full Coverage is Always More Expensive Than Liability-Only

Reality: While generally true, the *difference* in cost can vary. For very old, low-value cars, the premiums for collision and comprehensive might be so high that they exceed the car's worth, making liability-only seem much cheaper. However, for newer or higher-value vehicles, the cost of full coverage might be a more reasonable investment compared to the potential out-of-pocket cost of replacing or repairing the car. Also, discounts can significantly narrow the gap.

Misconception 5: My Lender Will Never Let Me Drop Full Coverage

Reality: While lenders typically require full coverage for financed or leased vehicles, this requirement usually only applies while you have a loan or lease. Once you own the car outright, you have the freedom to adjust your coverage levels, including dropping collision and comprehensive if you choose.

Misconception 6: Comprehensive Insurance Only Covers Theft

Reality: Comprehensive insurance covers a wide range of non-collision events, including theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters (hail, flood, wind), falling objects, and animal collisions. Theft is just one of many perils it protects against.

Misconception 7: Collision Insurance Covers Damage from Potholes

Reality: Damage from potholes is generally considered a collision. However, some insurers might categorize it differently depending on the specifics. If you hit a pothole and damage your suspension or tires, it would typically fall under collision coverage, subject to your deductible.

Misconception 8: Full Coverage Means My Medical Bills Are Always Covered

Reality: While full coverage often includes Medical Payments (MedPay) or Personal Injury Protection (PIP), these coverages have limits. If your medical bills exceed these limits, you would be responsible for the remainder, unless you have health insurance or adequate bodily injury liability coverage to cover others. Your own bodily injury liability coverage doesn't typically pay for your own medical bills; that's the role of MedPay, PIP, or your health insurance.

Understanding these nuances ensures you have realistic expectations and are making informed decisions about your auto insurance coverage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding "what's full coverage auto insurance" is about recognizing it as a robust package designed to offer comprehensive protection for your vehicle and financial well-being. It typically comprises liability, collision, and comprehensive coverages, acting as a vital safeguard against a wide array of risks, from at-fault accidents to theft and natural disasters. For 2025, the decision to opt for full coverage hinges on factors like your vehicle's value, whether you have a loan or lease, your financial capacity to absorb repair costs, and your personal desire for peace of mind. While it commands a higher premium than liability-only policies, the financial security it provides, especially for newer or financed vehicles, is often well worth the investment. By carefully assessing your needs, shopping around for quotes, taking advantage of discounts, and regularly reviewing your policy, you can effectively maximize the value of your full coverage and ensure you're adequately protected on the road.