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- Split limits allocate liability coverage into separate limits for bodily injury per person, bodily injury per accident, and property damage.
- A combined single limit (CSL) provides one umbrella liability amount that can be used where it’s needed most after an accident.
- CSL can offer greater flexibility and protection, especially in serious accidents with high medical or property costs.
- Split limit policies are generally more common and less expensive, but may leave gaps in coverage if damages exceed one category’s limit.
- Your state’s insurance laws and your personal financial situation should influence whether split or combined single limits are right for you.
Understanding liability insurance limits
When you buy car insurance, you also choose liability limits — the maximum amounts your insurer will pay for damages you cause to others in an at‑fault accident. These limits protect you from lawsuits and financial loss.
There are two primary ways these limits can be structured: split limits and combined single limits.
What is a split limit policy?
A split limit policy breaks your liability coverage into three separate categories:
- Bodily injury per person
- Bodily injury per accident
- Property damage per accident
For example, a 50/100/25 policy means:
- Up to $50,000 for injuries to one person,
- Up to $100,000 total for injuries to all people in one accident,
- Up to $25,000 for property damage.
With split limits, each category has its own cap, and you can’t shift unused amounts from one category to cover a shortfall in another.
What is a combined single limit (CSL)?
A combined single limit (CSL) policy provides one total liability limit that applies to all covered damages in an accident — whether bodily injury or property damage.
For example, a $300,000 CSL policy means up to $300,000 in total coverage per accident, allocated as needed between injuries and property damage. This flexibility can be valuable in accidents with high medical bills but modest property damage (or vice versa).
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Split limit vs. combined single limit: Pros and cons
Understanding how these formats differ helps you balance coverage quality and cost.
Split limit
Pros
- Often lower premiums due to narrower coverage.
- Meets many state minimum liability requirements.
Cons
- Coverage may be inflexible if high costs arise in one category.
- Could leave you exposed if damages exceed a specific category’s limit.
Combined single limit (CSL)
Pros
- Flexible payout between bodily injury and property damage.
- May provide better protection in serious accidents.
Cons
- Often higher premiums due to broader coverage.
- Not always offered by all insurers or required in all states.
Which option is better for you?
Neither format is universally “best.” If you have significant assets to protect or want broader payout flexibility after a serious accident, a CSL policy might make sense.
But if you’re comfortable with standard coverage and want to keep premiums lower, a split limit policy that meets your state’s requirements may be appropriate. Personal financial situation, state law, and premium cost all should factor into your choice.
Conclusion
Split limit and combined single limit are two ways liability coverage can be structured in your auto insurance policy. Split limits divide protection into distinct buckets, while a combined single limit pools all liability coverage into one flexible amount.
Knowing the differences, advantages, and limitations of each helps you choose the right coverage level for your needs and financial risk tolerance.
Frequently Asked Questions: Split vs. Combined single limits
What is a split limit in car insurance?
A split limit separates liability coverage into three parts: per-person bodily injury, per-accident bodily injury, and property damage. For example, a 100/300/50 policy covers up to $100,000 per person, $300,000 total per accident for injuries, and $50,000 for property damage.
What is a combined single limit (CSL)?
A combined single limit offers one total amount of liability coverage per accident, which can be used flexibly across injuries and property damage. For example, a $500,000 combined single limit can go toward any combination of injury or damage claims.
Is combined single limit better than split limit?
CSL offers more flexibility and often broader protection in serious accidents, but it typically costs more. Split limits are more common and affordable, but they can leave coverage gaps if one category’s costs exceed its cap.
Do all insurance companies offer CSL policies?
No. Combined single limit policies are less common and may not be available through all insurers. They’re more often used in commercial or high-net-worth policies.
Which one should I choose: Split or combined limit?
Choose CSL if you want maximum flexibility and have higher financial risk exposure. Choose split limits if you’re budget-conscious and state minimums meet your needs. Always compare quotes and coverage options with your agent.
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