We all appreciate the benefits of having a car, especially if it’s new. However, looking after our asset requires a lot of care and attention, which involves much more than keeping it in great condition. We are also responsible for protecting our investment in the best possible way, which means we have to insure our car. With some many insurance companies out there and numerous packages offered, one can simply feel overwhelmed and easily choose a wrong one. This can be a real problem in case your car gets stolen or damaged and your whole family depends on it being available at all times. So, what is it that should look for when choosing the best car insurance?
Clean up your driving record
If you want to avoid paying exaggerated insurance premiums, you need to keep your driving record as clean as possible. Insurance companies tailor their premium rates based on very thorough research of the driver’s previous traffic violations. In most cases, they are only interested in major violations, such as bumps and crashes, while some companies go as far as to increase the insurance rates based on the offenses like parking tickets. So, check with an insurance company how far they go when it comes to investigating your record if you know your record is not clean. Otherwise, relax and enjoy the lowest rates.
Know what your family needs
You need to get an insurance that is suited to your specific requirements and financial situation. Start by deciding what you want to cover. You’re probably thinking about liability insurance, which covers the injuries and property damage you are direct responsibility for, collision insurance, which covers the damage to your car after a collision with another vehicle, comprehensive insurance, which normally covers weather events and accidents involving animals, as well as personal injury protection insurance, which covers a part of medical expense stemming from a car accident.
Also, you might opt for a fast-responding customer service for any of your inquires or a more flexible policy, which gives you more wiggle-room in case of an unwanted situation. Finally, your location plays an important role in choosing the best car insurance. You might need to protect your car from fire or some other type of hazard, depending on where you live.
Don’t go for car dealer insurances
Most car dealerships operate in very unfavourable circumstances, where the commission for an add-on insurance policy goes all the way up to 70%. Dealerships often spice up the contract with policies that are not always in your best interest. That’s why you have to find a better insurance that provides better value for your money and great service and focuses on customer satisfaction.
Don’t choose the first one offered
Just like you wouldn’t buy the first car you test drive, you shouldn’t sign the first contract offered. Instead, you need to ask around and find out how happy other customers may be with a particular insurance policy. Consult your friends and family members and see how satisfied they are with their current car insurance policies. Ask them about any perks they have and find out if there are any that would be suitable for your family, too.
Price
Normally, the more you pay, the more comprehensive coverage you have, but your situation might be specific. That’s why you should learn more about your price options. Ask at least three insurance companies for a quote and evaluate them. Think about your budget and your needs when choosing the best option. Perhaps the initial rate could be higher for a particular company, but its reward programme for reliable driver could offer you a better price. Similarly, there could be some discounts on joint insurance for spouses, so check that out as well.
Know your insurance basics
Since there is no solution that could be best for every family, it’s important to know not only your situation, but also your insurance basics. Make sure you know what the legal minimum in your country is and protect your family and your car with insurance that gives your access to a courtesy car in case yours is out of order. Finally, every good insurance policy will offer rescue service for those unexpected problems that you might encounter on the road.
The most important thing when choosing the best car insurance family is to know what kind of insurance your need. Next, you need to ask around and compare deals offered by various companies, while at the same time trying to find out from other clients how they feel about their policies. Finally, your car insurance should be affordable and as comprehensive as possible. Only then will you know that you’ve provided the best possible protection for your investment.
