Please enter valid ZIP

OTC stands for other than collision, also known as comprehensive coverage, a type of physical damage coverage. Other than collision is an optional physical damage coverage, which helps protect your vehicle in case of theft, vandalism, glass damage, damage from hitting an animal, fire, floods and weather-related damage.

It’s called “other than collision” in reference to collision coverage, which covers damage to your car when your car hits, or is hit by, another vehicle or other objects. It does not matter who is at fault in the accident that damages your vehicle; you can make a claim under collision but will pay your deductible.

A car insurance coverage package including both comprehensive and collision coverage is often referred to as “full coverage.”

If you aren’t sure whether to buy collision or comprehensive coverage, use our tool “How much car insurance do I need?” to see what’s best for your situation.

 — Michelle Megna contributed to this story.

Authors Still have a question? Ask our experts

Get advice from an experienced insurance professional. Our experts will help you navigate your insurance questions with clarity and confidence.

Browse all FAQs
Please enter a valid input Min 50 to max 250 characters are allowed. Only (& ? , .) charcters are allowed.
All information provided will remain confidential.
Please enter a valid input
Error: Security check failed
Thank You, Your message has been received. Our team of auto insurance experts typically answers questions within five working days. Note that due to the volume of questions we receive, not all may be answered. You are a bot!
Ask another question
Meet our editorial team
author-img Shivani Gite Contributing Writer
Shivani Gite is an insurance and personal finance writer with a degree in journalism. She specializes in simplifying complex insurance topics, providing readers with clear and accessible guidance to make informed coverage and financial decisions.
author-img Laura Longero Executive Editor
Laura Longero is the editor-in-chief of CarInsurance.com and a Nevada-based insurance expert. With more than 15 years of experience simplifying complex financial and insurance topics, she provides clear, trustworthy guidance to help drivers make confident coverage decisions. She serves as a media spokesperson for CarInsurance.com and has been featured in Consumer Affairs, MotorTrend and Business Insider, and completed the pre-licensing course in Personal Lines Property & Casualty Insurance.