Advertorial

Car07

Which Auto Insurance Provider is Right for You?

Shopping for car insurance can be a confusing process. Even though coverage is almost always required by law, insurance companies rarely make it easy for you to understand their policies. In order to clarify some of the haziness, here is a look at several tips for choosing the right auto insurance provider for you.

  • Know What Types of Coverage You Need – Often, the most confusing part of shopping for auto insurance is understanding the different types of coverage that are included with a certain plan. Unless you know what each type of coverage is for, it’s impossible to figure out which ones you need. Almost every state in the country requires you to carry liability insurance–which pays for damages to property and medical bills if you get into an accident that is deemed your fault. Collision coverage is optional (unless you take out a car loan, in which case it is almost always required), and it covers the cost of repairing or replacing your car if it is damaged or totaled. Comprehensive coverage protects you if something other than a car accident causes damage to your car, such as weather damage, theft, etc. For newer cars, all three types of insurance are recommended. As your car gets older, however, you can decide whether it’s worth the cost to keep collision and comprehensive coverage.
  • Compare Quotes from Different Providers – Once you understand what types of car insurance you need, it’s usually time to compare auto insurance providers. Different insurance companies will have their own pros and cons, so it’s worthwhile to do some research into the reputation of the insurer before moving forward. After you narrow your choice down to a few top picks, you can obtain a free quote from these companies. Not all insurance quotes are cut and dry, and you might find that a few different factors have a major impact on your quoted rates. For instance, it’s a good idea to ask about how raising or lowering your deductible might affect your premiums. You can also adjust the coverage levels of each different type of insurance to change your overall costs.
  • Other Factors That Can Affect Premiums – No two people are alike when insurance brokers (and the software they use to put together quotes) come up with a policy to pitch to you. Several factors–both in and out of your control–can impact your premiums. Your driving history, for example, may lead your rates to skyrocket if you have had several accidents. On the other hand, safe drivers usually enjoy discounted premiums. Certain states allow for accident-forgiveness, in which case you may be permitted one at-fault accident without your rates going up. Age and gender might also impact your premium. Teenage boys, for example, typically pay the most for insurance because they are statistically more likely to get into accidents. Where you live affects your rates as well because the traffic in some areas of the country tends to lead to more accidents.

Once you know what to look for, you can be a much more informed shopper for car insurance. Find out if you qualify for auto insurance savings you didn’t even know about–which could cut your monthly premiums significantly.

link or link