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 a policy or policies that would best suit your
needs.
Liability - This 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 policy covers any damages if your vehicle
is crashed to another vehicle, lamp posts, house or any another
objects.
Comprehensive – This 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 policy covers the damages done to your
vehicle.
Underinsured Motorist – This 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.
Car Rental Reimbursement – In case of a damaged car due to
a vehicular accident, this policy will give a daily allowance for
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 are 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 car 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 company offers 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 a3.0 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!
