Whether you’re a first time buyer of car insurance or already have it but are looking for a better deal, you should be asking several questions.
First, do you trust your agent and what is their relationship with their clients and the community?
Second, is the company from whom you’re buying well known? What is its reputation? What about price? Because there are hundreds of companies competing for your business, prices vary – sometimes a lot. It pays to shop. Be sure the premiums you’re quoted are for equal amounts of coverage.
How about service? Price is important but saving money won’t mean much unless you get the service you need - when you need it. If possible, ask other clients of your prospective agent how they’ve been cared for, especially when they have filed a claim. Find out how the company handles claims. Is the method convenient for you, no matter where or when you have an accident?
How about solvency? Will they still be in business when you need them? Your state department of insurance has financial ranking information on all of the companies that do business in its state.
Once you’ve decided on a company and an agent, there are more questions to ask. How much coverage do you need? The required minimum amounts of liability coverage may not be enough for you.
Consider setting your insurance coverage based on your level of income and assets. How much can you afford to pay if there’s a big judgment against you because of an accident? What about deductibles? Deductibles lower your premiums - most commonly for collision and comprehensive coverages - but increase the amount of loss that comes out of your pocket. How much additional risk are you willing to take in order to save?
Should you carry both collision and comprehensive coverage? As your car’s value decreases, you might consider removing these coverages and pocketing the savings on premiums. But consider if the savings are enough to offset the risk of footing the entire cost of repairing or replacing your car.
Car insurance is not a generic commodity. It is a product that should be personalized to each individual. Your agent can help you answer these questions and help you tailor your auto insurance to your specific and unique needs.
State Farm® has been in the business of providing excellent auto insurance coverage at an affordable price since 1922. Responding to our customers' needs keeps us the leader in auto insurance.
Car insurance coverage is designed to help financially cover potential auto-related damages, loss or injuries. It helps protect you, your passengers, your fellow drivers, pedestrians, other people's property and your vehicle. It can also help protect you in the event of an automobile-related lawsuit.
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