Myths and realities of car insurance.

• Position: Life in America

The color of an automobile influences how much it costs to insure it. Comprehensive coverage protects drivers in all situations because, after all, it is "comprehensive." Car insurance companies can charge whatever they want. Have you ever thought one or more of these statements to be true? You are not alone. A survey conducted by DriveSM Insurance, Mayfield Village, Ohio, from The Progressive Group of Auto Insurance Companies, finds many drivers accept common car insurance myths as true. Here is a sampling:

Myth: Car insurance companies consider vehicle color when determining rates. Fact: Color is not a factor. Information that is used includes the vehicle's year, make, model, body type, and engine size, as well as data about the driver.

Myth: Car insurance rates are not regulated and insurance companies can charge whatever they want. Fact: Each state has regulators who review the information companies collect as well as the rates they charge; insurers cannot deviate from those rates.

Myth: Comprehensive coverage protects drivers in all situations. Fact: Comprehensive coverage is one type of protection available. It only pays for damage caused by an event other than a collision, such as fire, theft, or vandalism; it also covers weather-related (e.g., hail, flood) damage; and damage caused if a vehicle collides with an animal. Moreover, it provides a rental car if a vehicle is stolen.

Myth: Rental reimbursement coverage protects drivers who crash their...