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Property damage liability on an auto policy

What PD liability pays when you damage someone else’s property, how limits work, and how it differs from collision on your own car.

Alex Rivera1 min read
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Educational only. PolicyPlain does not sell insurance and does not provide insurance, legal, or financial advice. Coverage rules and prices vary by state and insurer. Read our full disclaimer.

If you’re at fault and smash someone else’s bumper—or their fence—property damage liability is the coverage that can help pay for their stuff. Collision is about your car.

PD liability vs collision

Property damage liabilityCollision
Whose property?OthersYours
When it appliesYou are at faultCrash damage to your car (with deductible)

Limits

PD is often shown as a single limit (for example $25,000 or $50,000) alongside bodily injury split limits. State minimums can be far below modern repair costs for newer vehicles.

Frequently asked questions

Does property damage liability fix my car?+

No. It helps cover someone else’s property when you are at fault. Your car usually needs collision coverage.

Property damage liability on an auto policy | PolicyPlain