Understanding Stacked vs. Non-Stacked Coverage in Auto Insurance

Understanding Stacked vs. Non-Stacked Coverage in Auto Insurance

When it comes to auto insurance, understanding your coverage options is key to ensuring you have the protection you need. One important distinction to know is between stacked and non-stacked coverage. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Stacked Coverage:

What It Is**: Stacked coverage allows you to combine the limits of multiple insurance policies for a single accident. This usually applies to underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage.

How It Works**: If you have multiple vehicles insured under the same policy, you can add together the coverage limits for all vehicles. For example, if you have two cars each with $50,000 in uninsured motorist coverage, you could potentially have $100,000 in coverage if you stack.

Benefits**: This can provide greater financial protection in case of a serious accident, especially if the at-fault driver is underinsured or uninsured.

Non-Stacked Coverage:

What It Is**: Non-stacked coverage means that each vehicle has its own separate limits, and you cannot combine them.

How It Works**: Using the same example, if you have two cars with $50,000 in uninsured motorist coverage, you would only have access to $50,000 total, not $100,000.

Benefits**: Non-stacked coverage typically comes at a lower premium, which can help save you money on your insurance costs.

Which Is Right for You?

Choosing between stacked and non-stacked coverage depends on your individual needs and financial situation. If you frequently drive in high-traffic areas or are concerned about underinsured drivers, stacked coverage might be worth the extra cost for peace of mind.