Ten Tips On How To Get The Best Deal On
Car Insurance
With the high cost of gasoline nowadays, most new drivers think
twice before getting car insurance.
Driving
without any car insurance is a very big risk. Most drivers might
think that car insurance is way too expensive, but in the long run
it may save you a lot of money.
Take for instance this example, if you are in a car accident it
may cost you thrice the amount you might have paid for a car
insurance policy, to cover for hospitalization and for buying
yet another car. Plus without car insurance you will be paying
police fines as well as paying for a suspended license.
A total of 47 states require some kind of insurance for your
car. It would be wise to know the basic law covering car insurance.
Here are ten tips you can refer to on how you can get the best deal
on car insurance.
1. Know the different types of car insurance policy
The first thing to know in buying car insurance is to understand
the different policies they offer. Choose an insurance policy or
policies, that would best suit your needs.
Liability - This insurance policy covers physical injuries and
damages to property. This includes paying for hospitalization and
other medical expenses. Damage to property includes vehicles and
other tangible property that might have been damaged during the
accident. Liability also includes expenses for court proceedings if
the vehicular accident requires one.
Collision? This insurance policy covers any damages if your
vehicle is crashed to another vehicle, lamp posts, house or any
another objects.
Comprehensive? This insurance policy covers damages caused by
natural disaster like flood, storm, hail or wind. This also
includes damages by theft or vandalism.
Medical Coverage? Medical expenses are covered by this policy
not considering if the cause is a vehicular accident or not.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)? A personal insurance of the
driver. This policy covers for medical expenses and treatment
caused by an auto incident.
Uninsured Motorist? If by chance you are hit by an uninsured
driver, this insurance policy covers the damages done to your
vehicle.
Underinsured Motorist? This insurance policy will cover the
remaining cost for repairing your damaged car if ever the incident
is caused by an insured driver with inadequate liability
insurance.
Rental Reimbursement? In case of a damaged car due to a
vehicular accident, this insurance policy will give a daily
allowance in the rental fee.
2. Know your credit rating:
In most states, credit rating has always been the number one
factor affecting car insurance rates. Be sure you have a copy of
you credit report and check its accuracy and immediately contest
any erroneous information.
3. Motor Vehicle Report (MVR)
You can get a copy of your Motor Vehicle Report in your
respective Department of Driver Services or Department of Public
Safety in your state. A three year record may cost you $5 and a
seven year record would cost you $7. Like credit reports,
verify that all information is correct.
4. Accident Reports
You can get a copy of your Motor Vehicle Accident Report from
the local police department. It may take around six weeks before
you can receive the detailed report. You might need to pay a higher
car insurance rate if you have reported accidents within the last
eighteen months.
5. Scout for a good insurance package
There are some insurance companies that are offering
multi-vehicle discounts. You would get a lower rate if you have two
or more vehicles that you want to get insured. Also, you can
get a good deal from one company that packages all their insurance
policies, including home and health insurance.
6. Check out various discounts
Most insurance companies offer a discount to drivers over 55
years of age. It always pays to be a good student; you can get a
student discount if you have a 3.0 point average or higher.
7. Obtain a
Driving Safety Certificate
It is common for car insurance companies to give certain
discounts to those who finish a safety driving course with a very
good standing.
8. Check the model of your car
Insurance rates can be different from vehicle to vehicle. A
fancy car will obviously have a higher rate than an older
model.
9. Take advantage of added features
Be sure you are receiving lower rates for safety and security
features like antilock brakes and air bags.
10. How much are you willing to pay
Choose the option where you can handle the down payment and the
monthly paying scheme. Compare other insurances prices before
purchasing one. You can try calling a toll- free number
(1-888-588-5111) where you can ask for car insurance assistance and
compare rates.
Having car insurance is like driving trouble-free. But, as
always, being a responsible driver exceeds all effort in having a
hassle-free life on the road. Never drink when you're driving. Have
a big respect for your life and that of others. Go get your
car insured and be safe on the road!
|