If you’ve recently invested in a new set of wheels, don’t underestimate the importance of car insurance! Here’s a simple guide on how to choose car insurance…
Have you insured your new car?
If you’ve recently invested in a new set of wheels, don’t underestimate the importance of car insurance! Car insurance is a necessity, but that doesn’t mean it is simple. You need to make sure that you get what you need, and aren’t overpaying.
We are here to help. Read on for our simple guide on how to choose car insurance.
- Get the Right Level of Cover
In most US states you need to have car insurance with a certain level of liability coverage, so make sure to check. Most car insurers will provide 5 other coverage options aside from state requirements:
- Uninsured motorists
- Medical costs
- Personal injury protection
- Collision
- Comprehensive
Make sure to get coverage for what you need and don’t get up-sold if you don’t want it. Make sure it includes what you want and don’t be afraid to question things. Otherwise, you might be overpaying or get caught out.
- Compare Prices
Once you’ve settled on your coverage type, you can begin comparing quotes. It’s important to do this as premiums can vary, often by thousands of dollars for the young. Try to get as many quotes as you can to establish a price range.
Compare the coverage too, a smaller quote might be missing some of the things you need. It’s better to double check. Being thorough at this stage keeps you informed and gives you bargaining chips when negotiating. Be in control!
- Choose a Good Insurer
While looking at quotes, take the time to research the companies. Check their financial strength and read reviews! Also, find out if they use your credit score to calculate your rates and how they do this.
It will help you narrow down your choices and choose which quotes to look at further. They have a rating from major rating agencies like Moody’s and Standard & Poor. You can access the ratings online. This website has found that many insurers will undervalue many claims, so choose carefully.
- Watch Out For Add-ons
These deals will be a package deal, so make sure that you need all the added extras you’re buying. Make sure they meet your needs and aren’t covered by other sources. You could even save money by removing some options.
One add-on that can cause a lot of confusion is breakdown cover. If you already pay for breakdown cover, make sure you’re not paying for it twice. If you don’t, it can be cheaper to have it added to your insurance policy.
- Take Care With Extra Drivers
Adding extra drivers to your policy can have a big impact on your premium. One isn’t going to make much difference. It might even lower your premium in some circumstances.
Adding a large amount though can lead to spiking costs. It is also advised that if you can avoid it, don’t add anyone under 25 to your policy. Young drivers will often see your policy costs increase.
How to Choose Car Insurance
Making sure you have the right car insurance can be tricky. But if you follow our advice you will be making the best decision. Make sure you know what you want before you speak to any insurers, and always compare prices to avoid being ripped off.
Now you know how to choose car insurance, check out our tips on negotiating the best auto insurance deals.
