Write it Up

Choosing the correct insurance for your automobile can be a  duanting task but it doesn’t have to be.  Here are a few tips to ease the process.

1. Assess what you require.

It’s important to understand what you need first and then check the many companies that will offer exactly what you’re looking for.  No matter what Uncle Bob thinks only you know for sure what you need. If you’ve got a brand new Camery or a Mercedes Benz that’s a classic or just a nice Ford Focus that’s just a few years old and still in good condition then it makes sense to have full conprehensive coverage.

But if you don’t care about damage because you’re looking to get another vehcle soon or it’s just not worth repairing, then getting basic liability insurance could be the answer. In either scenario or anything in between, there are various ways to custom fit your insurance plan and this is what needs to be decided upon in your quest for the right policy.

2. Do the research.

There are numerous insurance companies to review. State Farm, AllState, Esurance, Geiko, AAA and more. All are required to carry the basic liability so the challenge comes in decerning which of the many insurance carriers out there will match your particular specifications.

The Internet is a great place to look up information and get quotes. Be warned though that once you submit for a quote, for some reason, you will get bombarded will agents and brokers calling and emailing you about their plans and policies. Be certain that when you ask for a quote it will only be submitted to the one company. Unless you want a little attention.

3. Check them out - they check you out.

When you ask for a quote the insurance agent will ask you all sorts of questions. It’s only fair that you, as the consumer, check them out as well. Ask them about their financial status, something especially important in this era of economic instability. Also inquire about their rating as a company.  Triple A ratings are the top for the industry. You’d rather eat at a five star resturant than a one star, wouldn’t you?

4. Claims filing.

This is exceedingly important and if you’ve ever been in an accident you’d know that one of the most frustrating things to go through is the claim filing procees. Ask how moany forms are required, can you do it on line and are agents available around the clock to help. Find out the time frame in which claims are processed and how fast they pay on claims.

One word of caution. Don’t let the ease of claim filing act as a indicator of quality or efficientcy. If something is too easy it may be an indication of a fast shuffle.

5. Beware of agents pressure.

Never be bullied or conjoured into taking a policy. A good agent or broker takes time to explain the details of what you’re buying and they don’t need to rush someone into the sale.

A fast talker is most likely trying to hide some inadequacey of your insurance policy. Slow down and make the right choice. If the agent can’t wait a day or two for you to make up your mind, move on. Get what you want and not something you’ll regret later.

6. Office location.

Find out where all their offices are, especially if you travel a lot. Having your insurance agent close by can make all the difference in the world when you’ve been in an accident. Make sure you have the agent’s name, phone number, policy number and office hours in your house and in your car.  If your agent will give you his cell phone or a toll free number you can use round the clock and you can call in emergencies all the better.

7.  Know your State.

If you are in a No-Fault state and are getting a policy outside your state make sure the agent knows. If your agent is in your State they better know this already.

8. Discounts.

Inquire about what discounts are available to you. Your age, the age of dependants you are covering, driving distance, driving record and so on all play a part in what kind of money you will save or spend. Multiple car coverage can also provide desired discount as well.

9.  Ask questions.

Where ever you go for your insurance policy don’t be afraid to ask questions. There are no dumb questions if it’s something that you don’t know. Remember; it’s your money paying for the policy, get what you want and make sure it’s everything you need.

A final note - What your policy covers is important but how hard the company will fight on your behalf in case of an accident is equally important. Find people who have the same coverage you want and ask what their experience has been like. The more information you can gather the better prepared you’ll be in picking out the right car insurance coverage taylor made for your budget.