Auto insurance seems very straightforward. You purchase a policy, paying the premiums and the fees in a manner to which you can afford. You expect should something happen, that your insurance (and your agent) will cover the problem and make your life easier.

Not all policies (and agents) allow their customers to qualify for their insurance claims in the same manner. Before shopping by the norm, try to think of odd situations that seem out of the norm (i.e. 'I was driving and in an accident'). Write down some of these situations and interview your prospective insurance agency. After all, you are purchasing services from them. Therefore, you want to know the most detailed information possible before you sign on the line.

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Purchasing a Policy is Also Purchasing an Agent

You should keep in mind when purchasing a policy, you are also purchasing an agent, and so how the agent reacts to your questions should raise either green or red flags during this process. If too many red flags seem to 'pop up' then seek another carrier for your policy. It is, after all, that which could make your life easier, or far more difficult, should something happen. Here are three possible odd scenarios:

I know I'm covered for an accident while driving, but what of things like vandalism, which take place when the car is parked?

Some policies state that even if you park your car beneath a light, in front of a building where security cameras and personnel are visible, that an act of vandalism is your fault. By turning in a claim, you may end up paying a higher premium rate. Some agents may also state this, without letting you know that the claim will not raise your rates, but simply take some end of year funds from their pockets (red flag). Find out prior to purchasing a policy on scenarios in which driving is not directly the cause of an 'accident'.

A friend drives my car, and he or she has an accident. Whose insurance would be involved?

Dependent upon the policy of both the driver and the owner of the car, it may be that the car's owner will be the one who turns in a claim. Check with your state and local regulations concerning insurance claims. Also, check to see if your policy follows the car or the driver.

What if someone hits me and he or she has no insurance?

Sadly, a growing trend is to drive uninsured, even without the most basic of insurance policies that are very affordable. Many policies have an uninsured motorist type of clause, and are usually about mid-range when searching for prices. Ask for the most current trends and the highest types of claims made by drivers at the agency over the last year. This type of information should help guide you to the best type of insurance needs for you and your car.

Shopping for auto insurance may seem easy, but don't go with the first company on the list just to 'get it over with'. Check out at least three different insurance companies. Project to them various scenarios and questions and take notes on how their policies would work (or not) for you and your car. Try to think outside the box when shopping around, and do not worry if you seem bothersome to an agent. You are shopping for you...not them.

 

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