Is full coverage worth it?
Full coverage costs most drivers $1,970 to $4,211 per year. Liability only runs $772 to $1,407 per year. Choose full coverage if your car is worth more than $4,000 and you can't pay to fix or replace it out of pocket.
Cost Comparison
Here's how costs stack up for typical drivers in 2026 (Source: LendingTree Insurance Analysis, 2026; Insurance Information Institute, 2026):
| Coverage Type | Annual Cost | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Liability Only | $772 to $1,407 | $64 to $117 |
| Full Coverage | $1,970 to $4,211 | $164 to $351 |
Full coverage adds collision and comprehensive protection. These cover your car for accidents, theft, or deer hits. Liability only pays for others' damage. You pay your own repairs.
In Missouri (ZIP 63101), expect costs near the national average. Full coverage might hit $2,500 yearly for many drivers.
When Full Coverage Makes Sense
Get full coverage if:
- Your car value tops $4,000. Repair bills often exceed this after a crash.
- You owe money on a loan or lease. Lenders require it.
- Theft or weather damage worries you. Comprehensive handles these.
"Drivers with cars worth over $5,000 save big with full coverage after one claim," says the Sidekick Research Team, based on analysis of 1,200 verified owner records (Source: Sidekick Owner Data, February 2026).
Drop to liability if your car is old and worth under $3,000. You save $1,200 or more yearly. But you risk big out-of-pocket costs if totaled.
Real Risks of Liability Only
Picture this: A deer totals your car. Damage: $5,000. Liability pays nothing for your vehicle. You cover it all (Source: Progressive Insurance Examples, 2026).
Or you get hit by an uninsured driver. Repairs cost $8,000. No payout without collision coverage.
Costs in Your Area
Missouri drivers pay these averages:
| State | Liability | Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Missouri (est.) | $900-$1,200 | $2,200-$3,000 |
Rates vary by your age, record, and credit. Shop quotes from Geico, Progressive, and State Farm. Geico full coverage averages $2,886 yearly (Source: J.D. Power Insurance Report, 2026).
Steps to Decide
- Check your car's value. Use tools like Kelley Blue Book.
- Run quotes for both options. Compare $500 deductible plans.
- Weigh repair costs vs. premium savings.
- Pick deductibles you can pay. Higher ones cut premiums 20-30%.
Sidekick helps you crunch these numbers fast. Enter your details for a custom ownership score.
Bottom Line
Full coverage protects your wallet if accidents happen. Most drivers with newer cars need it. Save money long-term by avoiding surprise bills. Get quotes today to see your exact costs.