Car Insurance Considerations
Taking out car insurance is never fun, but it’s required by law and something you should not take for granted. Always consider the following when taking out a new insurance policy.
Make sure you understand what the policy does and does not cover. Does the policy meet your needs? If not, then ask your insurance provider to come up with a new policy quote. While you are required to have car insurance, you also need to make sure the insurance coverage will take care of you in case of an accident or vehicle breakdown.
If you are purchasing a car and will have a loan on the vehicle, full insurance coverage is required. In fact, most banks and lending institutions require proof of insurance as part of the loan contract. You want to make sure you have coverage that will pay off what is owed on the loan in case you have an accident before you can pay off the car loan. Ask your insurance provider for details.
Drivers who also have home and/or life insurance can also bundle their policies, by purchasing all polices from the same provider. Having all the policies from one insurance provider saves you a lot of money and simplifies the complicated insurance process.
Where you live impacts your insurance rates. Car insurance is more expensive in metro areas than in rural areas, especially if you own an expensive car. More expensive cars require more expensive car insurance. You will also want to check your car’s safety rating. Safer cars are cheaper to insurance, while flashier models cost more.
Teen drivers who are looking for a new policy under their parents are granted one, but keep in mind the premium is going to stay very high for the first ten years or so. Teen drivers sometimes are awarded a discount by the provider through “good student” discounts. The discount awards teen drivers with good grades a cheaper premium.
Ask your insurance provider what discounts are available to you on a car insurance policy. Many providers offer discounts for senior citizens, members of the military, women, multiple cars, multiple drivers and multiple policies. You might also be eligible for a premium discount if you belong to certain organizations, such as the AARP, or a specialty club.
Ask around and gather several different insurance quotes. There is going to be a provider willing to offer a cheaper rate than any other. If the coverages are equal or close, you have found a winner!
Contact a qualified car insurance provider, have them examine your situation, and answer any questions or concerns you might have.
Tom Martens is the syndication coordinator Insurance-south-africa.co.za. South Arica’s leading Insurance information portal.
Tags: Car Insurance, Finance Personal Finance, Household Insurance, Insurance, Life Insurance, Loans
One Comment
If you’re a first time car insurance buyer, how do you know how much coverage you need?