Need a New Auto Insurance Quote? Try These Quick Tips
Getting a new auto insurance quote may feel like a hassle and you may worry you won’t find a rate that fits your budget. But with these quick tips, you can find a lower quote that fits your wallet and keeps you and your car covered.
Firstly, shop around. Don’t limit yourself to just one provider. Compare different quotes and ask what discounts the company offers. That way, you can get the biggest bang for your buck.
Next, dont assume adding a teen driver to your policy is a bad thing. A lot of insurance companies offer good discounts for teens who get good grades and complete drivers ed. Talk to your insurance agent to find out if you qualify.
Another quick tip is to avoid gap coverage. Gap coverage is additional coverage that comes on top of your existing policy and covers the difference in payments if you were to total your car. The reality is, most people dont need this. If collision and comprehensive coverages are enough to cover your car, then don’t bother with gap coverage.
Also, consider bundling services with one company. Most auto insurers will offer a lower quote if you bundle multiple policies like auto and homeowners under them.
Another great option is opting for higher deductibles. The higher your deductible, the lower your premium. While this is a riskier option, it can help save some serious cash if you’re slightly strapped for money.
Finally, if you make any improvements to your car, like adding air bags, share that with the company. Companies like to incentivize people to make safety upgrades that can help save lives. You might be surprised by the discounts you can get.
Now that we’ve discussed the quick tips for getting quotes, let’s take a closer look at the other areas you’ll want to consider when picking an auto insurance policy.
Firstly, let’s focus on coverage. When getting a quote, think about the coverage that works for you. Are you looking for the minimum coverage to stay compliant in your state or do you want additional coverage options, like renting a replacement car or having roadside assistance? You may also want to consider coverage for uninsured/underinsured drivers.
Next, you’ll want to consider customer service when you shop for auto insurance. Does the company have a website you can log into to view billing information, view policy information, and make online claims? Does the company have an active customer service team you can contact should you need help? Ultimately, you want to make sure you’re working with a company that puts its customers first and is reliable when you need help.
You’ll also want to consider the company’s reputation. Research reviews and ratings not only of their policy options, but also their customer service. A lot of companies have great offers but often lack customer service.
Finally, make sure you understand the claims process if you ever need to file one. Ask questions like: How long until you process my claim? Do I need to pay for repairs out of pocket and wait to get reimbursed? How long will it take to get my check once I file a claim? Asking questions like these will help you understand what you’re getting into and the convenience of the claims process.
Besides the quick tips, consider the connections you have. Finding an auto insurance policy may be easier if you have a connection. A friend may be able to recommend a company or you may qualify for a discount through a group or organization. Also, some companies offer discounts for members of certain professional or civic organizations.
Finally, consider alternative insurance policies. While auto insurance is typically the preferred option, some people opt for alternative forms of coverage. For example, if you only use your car to commute, you may benefit by using a pay-per-mile insurance policy; if you only use your car for pleasure, you may opt for a short-term auto insurance policy.
Another alternative is a telematic insurance policy, or usage-based insurance policy. This type of policy tracks your driving via an app or device installed in your car. The tracking monitors how you drive based on speed, acceleration, braking, time of day, and other factors. If you’re a good driver, you can expect a lower premium.
Finally, consider some older options. You might not be familiar with them, but over time, insurance companies have come up with several innovative policies to make insurance accessible to as many people as possible. For example, self-insurance plans are offered in some states, where companies and other groups can become the insurer in lieu of buying insurance from a private company. There are also communal-based plans, where members pool their money to cover one another in the event of an accident.
When it comes to getting quotes, there are many options to consider and you’ll want to evaluate each one to determine which works best for you. Just remember to shop around, compare prices and coverage, and ask questions before making a final decision. Doing that can put you in the drivers seat to save money.