Buying auto insurance is pretty simple. You shop around for a few plans, compare costs and coverage, and select the one that seems like the best fit for your needs and budget. These days, much of this is done online. But while shopping online for insurance is convenient, it can lead you to overlook some important details and intricacies of an insurance policy. You don't want this to come back and bite you when it's time to file a claim! So, before you click "buy" on the policy you think you want, take the time to call up an insurance representative and ask them these questions.
Is glass covered under collision or comprehensive?
If you've purchased collision and comprehensive coverage for your vehicle, ask the agent whether or not this includes glass damage. Some insurance companies consider glass damage a part of the collision policy; others consider it part of comprehensive. To complicate matters even further, some insurance companies require you to buy a separate glass policy if you want coverage for windshield and window repair and replacement. If you find out that this is the case, you can ask the agent how much glass coverage will cost and then reconsider whether this is the best auto insurance policy for you.
Also ask whether you'll be required to pay the deductible if you file a glass claim. Some insurance companies waive the deductible for glass claims; this is a sign of a great, must-buy policy!
Are you getting all of the discounts you're eligible for?
When entering your information online, it's easy to overlook possible discounts. For instance, you may overlook a box that says "check if you're a student" or "check if you've had a clean driving record for five years." When you ask this question, the agent can look over your account and review the discounts you're receiving. They can also let you know about any other discounts you may be eligible for so you don't accidentally overpay for your policy.
Where does the company do their estimates after an accident?
If you do get into an accident and file an insurance claim, you'll likely need to take your car to a shop to have an insurance agent -- or a mechanic who contracts with your insurance company -- assess the damage and give you an estimate. It's important to ask where this shop is so you can ensure you don't have to drive (or have your car towed) a hundred miles to get the estimate. Some companies will send a representative out to your home or workplace to assess the damage, which is definitely the most convenient option!
Will you be given a rental car if yours needs repairs?
If's not always easy to figure out car rental policies from the language in auto insurance contracts. Some companies will only give you a rental if your car has more than a certain value in damage. Others require that the car be in for service for 2 days or more before they'll provide a rental. If you ask the representative to spell out the company's rental policy for you, then you won't have any misconceptions as to the service you can expect if your car does become damaged.
If the insurance company's base rental car arrangements do not meet your needs, ask if they offer a separate addendum for rental car provisions. Paying a few extra dollars a month may be worth the peace of mind that comes with knowing that if your car is damaged, you'll have a rental provided for your use. Then again, you may want to look into policies through another company that does offer rentals with all claims.
To learn more about your auto insurance options, contact services like Able Insurance Agency.
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