Ask your insurance company for the details before singing on the dotted line for any insurance rate to ensure you are getting the best coverage for your situation!
When it comes to car insurance, making sure that you have the best coverage at the most affordable price is a must. Few truly consider the fine print of their coverage until it is absolutely necessary – and insurance companies know this.
Many drivers will choose a lower rate in exchange for coverage they never imagine they would have to use. When the unexpected occurs, you may find yourself facing repair costs that your policy won’t cover.
In order to ensure that you find the insurance rate that is perfect, it’s important to understand your options for locating rates as well as what to look for in each quote you receive.
Shopping for Quotes Online vs. with an Agent
When it comes to finding an insurance rate quote, there are two main avenues to choose from: navigating an online insurance marketplace or working directly with an agent.
There are pros and cons to both methods:
Online Insurance Quote
When you look for insurance quotes through an online insurance rate service, you can quickly find and compare rates with the click of a button.
With the simple addition of several pieces of data regarding your age, location, and previous accidents, as well as your vehicle’s make and model, you can see the most competitive rates from a variety of sources quickly.
Working with an Insurance Agent
By working directly with an agent, you add the confidence that comes with a face-to-face interaction. An insurance agent can use their experience and knowledge of the industry to find the coverage and rate that works for your budget.
However, an agent will typically direct you toward their company’s insurance coverage, so you may not see the potential rates of other insurance companies.
What to Look for in an Insurance Rate Quote
Once you choose a direction to head for finding your next insurance rate, the next question is: What do I look for in an insurance quote? There are many elements to an insurance quote other than the price:
Coverage Type: Does this rate include collision insurance only, or does it also include comprehensive coverage. The difference may make all the difference in whether both vehicles are covered in an accident.
Personal Injury/Liability Coverage: In accidents, both the vehicles and the individuals behind the wheel can be injured. Ensure that you know how much injury and liability coverage your policy includes to protect you from high-cost bills.
Rental Coverage: Many insurance policies offer to cover the cost of a rental vehicle should your car be totaled or have to spend time in a mechanics shop to be repaired.
Outside of these coverages, your rate will also be impacted by various elements such as age, demographic, location, car mileage, and more. Ask your insurance company for the details before singing on the dotted line for any insurance rate to ensure you are getting the best coverage for your situation!
Speak with an Attorney About Insurance Coverage
Another great source of information regarding insurance coverage and quotes is an injury attorney. While many consumers may not think of hiring an attorney until after an accident, attorneys have years of experience working with clients who have had to work with insurance companies in a variety of claims issues.
An attorney can help you understand what the best types of insurance coverages are available in your area, as well as how to understand the fine print of most insurance policies.
Join the conversation!