What Symbols 1 and 2 Represent
Symbol 1 usually marks the primary coverage limits—bodily injury per person, per accident, and property damage—while Symbol 2 indicates optional add‑ons such as uninsured motorist protection or rental reimbursement. Insurers use these shorthand markers to let you scan a policy quickly, matching each symbol to a specific section in the accompanying schedule.
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How the Symbols Influence Premiums
Because Symbol 1 covers the core liability that every state mandates, changes to its limits directly raise the base premium. Symbol 2 items are optional; selecting them adds a separate charge that varies by provider, driver history, and the deductible you choose. When you compare quotes, look for the same Symbol 1 limits first, then stack or drop Symbol 2 options to see the true cost difference.
Common Symbol 2 Add‑Ons and Their Impact
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UIM) – protects you if the other driver lacks sufficient coverage.
- Medical Payments (MedPay) – covers medical expenses for you and passengers regardless of fault.
- Rental Reimbursement – pays for a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired.
- Roadside Assistance – offers towing, lockout, and fuel delivery services.
Each add‑on appears as Symbol 2 in the policy matrix, often with a brief code (e.g., "UIM‑25") that denotes the limit.
Reading the Policy Schedule
The schedule lists Symbol 1 limits in a left‑hand column, followed by Symbol 2 codes in a right‑hand column. A typical line reads:
| Symbol | Description | Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bodily Injury – Per Person | $100,000 |
| 1 | Bodily Injury – Per Accident | $300,000 |
| 2 | UIM – Per Person | $50,000 |
Match each row to the coverage summary to confirm the insurer's offer matches your needs.
What to Verify Before Signing
1. Ensure Symbol 1 limits meet your state's minimum and your personal risk tolerance.2. Review each Symbol 2 add‑on for relevance—do you need rental reimbursement if you have a personal vehicle? 3. Check that the deductible amounts listed under Symbol 2 align with your budget for out‑of‑pocket costs.4. Confirm that any discounts (e.g., multi‑car, safe driver) are applied to the base premium before Symbol 2 charges are added.
When Symbols Change
If you adjust coverage during renewal, the insurer will update the symbols. A new Symbol 1 value means a different liability ceiling, while a new Symbol 2 code signals an added or removed optional cover. Always request an updated schedule and compare the before‑and‑after rows to see exactly what changed and how your premium is affected.