What to Know When Shopping For Auto Insurance

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Comparison shopping for auto insurance is as much fun as a box of rocks, but you can save a ton of money. The small effort to find the best auto insurance at the right price is well worth the time it takes to pick up the phone or search on-online. So, dump your rocky attitude about shopping for auto insurance and dig out your current insurance policy, your driver license number and your vehicle registration.

You can stay focused and have fun while sifting through this heavy subject. Remember, you could save hundreds and maybe even thousands per year in auto insurance premiums. These savings can be most evident if you are currently surcharged by your auto insurance company because of a moving violation(s), an accident(s) or a lower credit rating. Comparison shopping your policy against others may bring a smile to your face and put money back into your pocket.

It will take about an hour or two for this task, so have a phone in reach and clear a workspace at your computer desk/table. The following is a guide to help you compare insurance companies, their policies and unearth a great deal. It's simple to find the best insurance company for you; get quotes from as many auto insurance companies as you can and then choose the best insurance company and policy for your needs at the cheapest price.

Internet Search

Speed up your shopping, jump on the Internet highway to search for single sites offering multiple insurance quotes, for example netquote.com. Type "insurance quote" in your search engine and you will get pages of options to choose from.

Local Insurance Agent

Consider working with a local licensed insurance agent. If you are not comfortable with insurance contracts, a licensed insurance agent can make your search easier. Ask friends and family for a referral for a honest, reliable agent. There are two kinds of agents: (1) the captive agent who represents only one insurance company and (2) the independent agent, also known as a broker, who represents several insurance companies.

Compare Quotes

While you are comparing auto insurance policies, remember that coverage limits, deductibles, and discounts have big effects on the final premium. Make sure you get information about the insurance company's discounts and whether those discounts are reflected in your quote. Examples of discounts are safe driver, multi-policy, multi-car and safety equipment.

Decision: Rock, Scissor, Paper

Your final selection should depend on the reliability of the insurance company. Are they rock solid? Will they cut through the red tape and handle any future claims in a fair, equitable and expeditious manner? Will the estimated premium on the comparison quote sheet save you money and provide equal or better coverage? If the answer is yes to these questions your search is now over, have fun, go shopping for something you really need or invest your buried treasure of premium savings