How to Choose the Right Auto Insurance – Part Two

Auto insurance is not only an essential part of driving – having it is the law. In my last blog I discussed how rates are decided and what type of coverage you might need.

If those topics have got you thinking, I have a few more to share with you as you start your search for the best auto insurance for your needs.

Who Gets the Best Rate?

Auto insurances rate are not black and white. There are several factors at play and two drivers who have both have had their license for 10 years won’t necessarily qualify for the same rates. There are benefits to how long you have been driving, but there are several other things that can work for and against you.

Do you have a good driving record? Great! Congratulations! Many auto insurers offer discounts to drivers who have not made a claim, haven’t been in an accident, or haven’t received a traffic ticket in five years.

Or maybe you’re a star student in school or college? If you’re a young driver who has and maintains good grades, you could qualify for a discount.

Here are a few more:

• Some insurance companies offer a discount for drivers who complete a driver’s education or driver’s safety course.
• If you have two or more policies with your insurance company, there can be cost savings with the more policies you have.
• Equipment such as antilock brakes and antitheft devices can get you a discount.
• If you’ve been with the company for quite some time, ask if they are willing to give you a discount for being a loyal customer.
• If you have a higher deductible, usually you will have a lower premium.

Shop Around: Gather Quotes

Shopping around is one of the most important steps. The benefit of having access to so many insurance providers online allows drivers to shop around for a solution that works best for them. However, it can be time consuming.

Working with an associate at Van Beurden Insurance opens the doors even further. We take the time-consuming work and coordinate with 30-40 different carriers to gather a comprehensive recommendation for you. It is our goal to become your advocate and find the best program for you.

To get the best quote, you will need to provide the following information:

• The age and gender of the driver(s), the number of drivers in your household, and their driver’s license numbers
• A description of your car: the make, model, year, and vehicle identification number (VIN)
• The type of coverage and limits you want
• Your zip code

Review Your Policy

Before you sign on the dotted line, be sure to carefully review your new policy to make sure it includes all the coverage you want. Your policy will need to comply with California legal requirements as well as any additional requirements of the company that finances your auto loan.

Always Carry Proof of Insurance

Last, but not least, California requires you to always have proof of your insurance policy in your vehicle at all times. If the police stop you and you can’t show proof of auto insurance coverage, you could incur serious fines.

Most insurers will issue a handy insurance ID card – one for each vehicle you have insured. Keep this card in your car’s glove box along with the registration, and you’ll never have to worry about forgetting it. You might even need to provide proof of insurance when you register your car – you can use the insurance ID card for this as well.

Ready to make the big switch to sensible solutions? Let’s talk! Give me a call at (559) 634-7129 or send me an e-mail at bclyborne@vanbeurden.com.