Save Money on InsuranceBy Jim Collier

There is no reason for you to pay too much for your auto insurance. Having auto insurance is required by law but you should still shop for the best value for your money. Sometimes you have to really negotiate for the best deal. Here are some tips on how to get a good quote.

Before buying a car check and compare insurance rates and buy the car that you can afford to insure. Your insurance bill will keep coming due so you need to factor in this expense when buying a car.  Coverage for a sports car with a high performance engine will usually cost more to insure than a smaller car that gets good gas mileage.  Another factor is the safety rating and you can find this out from Kiplinger magazine or Consumer Reports.

Shopping online is a good way to gather information and compare quotes from various insurance companies. Set aside some time to research what the different insurance companies are currently offering. You may need to do a follow up phone call and physically go into the agency to sign the paperwork but sometimes this is not necessary before closing the deal.

A good auto insurance quote can vary from getting reasonable insurance for an older car to complete coverage for an expensive vehicle.

Good car insurance quotes depend on such factors as:

1. Credit history

2. Area where you stay

3. Driving record

4. Condition of the car

5. Type of car

6. In case of renewal, the depreciated value of the car and also whether any insurance has been claimed earlier.

Here is a tip to lower your rates. It is better to pay yearly rather than monthly because the insurance companies charge more for this convenience. If you can’t afford the yearly payments then at least pay quarterly because the monthly bank draft is the most expensive option. Also check to see if you are eligible for a discount.  Usually if you have other policies from the same company this will qualify you for a lower payment. These discounts help in making the policy affordable.

You can get good quotes on your auto insurance but you will need to be a smart shopper.  Look at the research you took the time to gather and take another look at these tips before you start the process. Then take time to enjoy the money you save.

 

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Auto Insurance Primer

by admin on March 9, 2012

By Jim Collier

Always try to find the best auto insurance company for your money.  In this primer we want to share with you a few pointers.

When you find good auto insurance you can relax and know that you are covered. Most people do not find out that they have bad coverage until they have an accident or their car gets stolen. It is a great feeling when you need good auto coverage and you have it.

Auto insurance should include loss due to fire, self ignition, theft, lightning or any malicious act. They should also pay for damage caused due to riots, terrorist attacks, and strikes, natural calamities such as floods, earthquakes, and so on. The best auto insurance companies have comprehensive policies but special attention must be given to what is excluded from the policy. Some companies also partner with automobile manufacturers so that in case of a claim the process speeds up. Auto insurance companies have different policies for two wheeler’s, trucks, four wheeler’s, and commercial vehicles.

It is good to go to a reputable auto insurance company when getting your vehicle insured, even if you have to pay a little more. Generally they offer premium services such as 24/7 phone support including holidays. Other services include towing in the event of an accident or breakdown. So, no matter what time of the day that you have a problem you know you can call them and not have to wait till the next day.

Some of the better auto insurance companies offer instant mobile updates on the status of your claim.   Get referrals from your friends and relatives.  Check to see how long they have been with their insurance company and try to find at least 2 years of consistent top customer service.

Learn to shop for auto insurance when you don’t have a critical need.  Shop around and compare features.  You should probably check out the latest consumer reports. Take your time and don’t rush into a decision you may regret later.

Big does not always mean better.  Small companies tend to be more transparent about exclusions in their coverage. Their prices may be lower because they have less high end advertising cost.

Just keep in mind that all insurance companies do not inform you equally therefore it is up to you to do due diligence. Most companies look at your FICA score which is your credit history.  Generally the higher your FICA and the better your driving record the lower your premium.  Keep in mind that you can always ask for a better rate once you are with your company for a year.

Take this little primer and make up a checklist of things to look for when you are shopping for auto insurance.  You can find good coverage at an affordable price.

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