FP/101 Version 5
Comparing and Contrasting Auto and Health Insurance
If you own a vehicle, you are required by law to purchase at least minimum liability insurance coverage and most states compulsory automobile insurance laws, which you must have to register your car. And all states have financial responsibility laws that require drivers who have been involved in traffic accidents have proof of insurance or the means to pay a claim. In some states even if you only possess a license but you do not actually own or drive a car, you still must have auto insurance. Automobile insurance protects you and your vehicle as well as other individuals on the road from accidents caused by texting, eating, and other numerous distractions involved while driving. It covers property and bodily injuries caused in a car wreck.
Health Insurance offers protection against illness or emergencies and usually covers most routine medical exams; it can be purchased through your employer or individually. You must pay not only insurance premiums, but usually a co pay is required when visiting the doctor or purchasing your prescription medicines. These can range between twenty five or more dollars for the office visit and just a few dollars for the medicine, depending on your plan. Also a yearly deductible sometimes must be met before coverage takes full effect. Some health insurance is provided by the government, such as Medicaid for the low income and Medicare for the disabled and elderly. Without adequate insurance, doctor fees and prescription costs can be substantial. A significant amount of people do not have coverage; but it will soon be required or you may face a penalty.
Both health and auto for the moment, (and in most states) are still voluntary to purchase. You must pay a premium for auto and health coverage, which can vary depending on you circumstances and risk factors. A deductible must be met before