If there is one thing you should never leave home without, it’s car insurance. For all drivers and car owners, having car insurance should be deemed top priority, and is in fact legally mandatory!
Shopping for the right auto insurance can be a little confusing, especially if you are a first-time buyer. Car insurance rates vary with the kind of car you drive, your driving record, the distance you drive, and the type of coverage you need. All insurance companies have their own criteria for calculating premiums. This is why it’s important that you are aware of what you’re doing or you may find yourself paying a higher premium to include coverage you really don’t want or need.
There are several factors car insurance companies look at before they give you a quote; for example: your driving history, age, and the type and condition of your car. Equipped with the right information and a little knowledge, you should be able to find the best car insurance coverage for you.
Take these simple steps to make sure you’re covering your bases:
Contact at least two car insurance agents to make inquiries. Most companies prepare a questionnaire for their prospective clients. Be sure to answer those questions accurately. By doing so, you are more likely to get the kind of policy that meets your needs. After answering the questions, an experienced agent will provide you with a free insurance quote. Go through the same process with at least one more reputable agent to make a comparison.
During your comparisons, it is very important that you take notes to make sure you are comparing “apples to apples”. Compare not only premiums, but also consider service, coverage, and deductibles.
Insurance companies usually offer lower monthly rates for insuring multiple cars and for automobiles with installed safety devices such as anti-theft devices, automatic seatbelts and airbags. Having such devices would make your car a lower risk. This offers advantages to both the insurance company and you. Don’t hesitate to ask what other discounts are available – good student discount, combining home policies, senior citizen discount, etc.
When it comes to the premiums, sometimes you can save by simply opting for a one-year policy as opposed to taking a six-month term. Give each agent the specific distance or hours you drive from home to your workplace. The shorter the distance or time, the better your chances are of getting a lower rate. Believe it or not, even a good credit history may come into play with your premiums. You knew it was helpful in getting you that car loan, but now it may even get you a lower insurance rate. W
