Auto insurance advertising is everywhere, from the pages of the daily newspaper, to television and radio commercials. All promises low rates, quick claims handling and personalized attention. But how do you know that you really get the best deal of them all ? What does a smart driver need to know in order to find the best car insurance for their needs ?
Here are four top tips to consider when hunting for a Car Insurance deal :
1. Consider Your Coverage Needs
Before we go headlong into the murky waters of motor vehicle insurance, you must have a basic idea of what you are looking for. At the very least, you must be aware of the minimum coverage imposed by each state. For instance, liability insurance which covers the damage if you are at fault, is required in almost every state. MedPay or PIP, which pays a certain percentage of your medical expenses and lost wages, is another option. Also, one should bear in mind that if you are leasing or financing your car, comprehensive and collision coverage are required as well.
Comprehensive coverage will reimburse you for any damages incurred from incidents such as theft and fire. Collision coverage protects you against damage caused by the impact of another vehicle, running into an obstacle, a telephone pole or other object. If your car is old and / or have already been paid for, you can save a considerable amount of money by choosing not to add on collision and comprehensive coverage. Just be sure to understand that if you are involved in an accident, they are not covered expenses, but rather you will more often than not have to pay for out of your own pocket.
2.Review Your Driving Record
Do you have a history of fender benders? If so, you may be better off with more comprehensive coverage. Have you accumulated a pile of speeding tickets? Consider taking a defensive driving course. Remember that when you apply for car insurance, the company will contact the DMV record for a copy of your driving. In general, car insurance companies are looking at the last 3-5 years, your driver's license history and your premiums based on past accidents and violations.
3. Start Shopping
After deciding on the type of coverage you need and having taken a look at your driving history, you can commence shopping for a good deal. You can do this in person, by phone or via the Internet but do ensure you prepare all the necessary documents. This includes the license, current car insurance policy, your car's VIN, and registration. The idea is to get as many offers as possible, so that you can reach and compare prices side-by-side. Many sites offer their prices against the prices of competitors, which can save you time. Be sure to keep a detailed list of individual companies and their coverage limits, deductibles and rates. Print out a copy of the deals you get online and ask for a fax / email / post a copy of the offers you are given over the phone or in person.
Other things to note if this is your research:
- any discounts offered by the companies such as discounts for students, military discounts, high credit score, safety equipment installed on the car, etc.
- the auto insurance company's rating (for consumers and the ratings groups)
- the company's payment policy (Do they offer automatic deductions from your bank account? Can you make payments online? There is a cancellation fee?)
A good way to ensure you get the best deal is to use a free online auto insurance quoting service. These services often compare quotes from hundreds of different suppliers, and the insurance providers often compete so much so that you end up with a good deal.
4. Your Decision
After you've done all the necessary research, it is time to choose a company. Although it may seem tempting, going with the cheapest car insurance quote may not automatically be the best way to go. Be sure to choose the coverage that is sufficient for your needs and that the level of service is decent and reliable. Getting the best deal in auto insurance has little to do with catchy jingles and funny commercials. By taking some time to do some research, you can save hundreds of dollars a year and still maintain the level of coverage you need with a reliable company.
Here are four top tips to consider when hunting for a Car Insurance deal :
1. Consider Your Coverage Needs
Before we go headlong into the murky waters of motor vehicle insurance, you must have a basic idea of what you are looking for. At the very least, you must be aware of the minimum coverage imposed by each state. For instance, liability insurance which covers the damage if you are at fault, is required in almost every state. MedPay or PIP, which pays a certain percentage of your medical expenses and lost wages, is another option. Also, one should bear in mind that if you are leasing or financing your car, comprehensive and collision coverage are required as well.
Comprehensive coverage will reimburse you for any damages incurred from incidents such as theft and fire. Collision coverage protects you against damage caused by the impact of another vehicle, running into an obstacle, a telephone pole or other object. If your car is old and / or have already been paid for, you can save a considerable amount of money by choosing not to add on collision and comprehensive coverage. Just be sure to understand that if you are involved in an accident, they are not covered expenses, but rather you will more often than not have to pay for out of your own pocket.
2.Review Your Driving Record
Do you have a history of fender benders? If so, you may be better off with more comprehensive coverage. Have you accumulated a pile of speeding tickets? Consider taking a defensive driving course. Remember that when you apply for car insurance, the company will contact the DMV record for a copy of your driving. In general, car insurance companies are looking at the last 3-5 years, your driver's license history and your premiums based on past accidents and violations.
3. Start Shopping
After deciding on the type of coverage you need and having taken a look at your driving history, you can commence shopping for a good deal. You can do this in person, by phone or via the Internet but do ensure you prepare all the necessary documents. This includes the license, current car insurance policy, your car's VIN, and registration. The idea is to get as many offers as possible, so that you can reach and compare prices side-by-side. Many sites offer their prices against the prices of competitors, which can save you time. Be sure to keep a detailed list of individual companies and their coverage limits, deductibles and rates. Print out a copy of the deals you get online and ask for a fax / email / post a copy of the offers you are given over the phone or in person.
Other things to note if this is your research:
- any discounts offered by the companies such as discounts for students, military discounts, high credit score, safety equipment installed on the car, etc.
- the auto insurance company's rating (for consumers and the ratings groups)
- the company's payment policy (Do they offer automatic deductions from your bank account? Can you make payments online? There is a cancellation fee?)
A good way to ensure you get the best deal is to use a free online auto insurance quoting service. These services often compare quotes from hundreds of different suppliers, and the insurance providers often compete so much so that you end up with a good deal.
4. Your Decision
After you've done all the necessary research, it is time to choose a company. Although it may seem tempting, going with the cheapest car insurance quote may not automatically be the best way to go. Be sure to choose the coverage that is sufficient for your needs and that the level of service is decent and reliable. Getting the best deal in auto insurance has little to do with catchy jingles and funny commercials. By taking some time to do some research, you can save hundreds of dollars a year and still maintain the level of coverage you need with a reliable company.
