Your no idiot. Your no moron. But let’s face it. The subject of insurance, especially car insurance can be regarded as pretty boring. However is something we all have to deal with if we plan to drive.
So here is a common scenario. You get pulled over for a burned out tail light. What does the police officer typically ask for? One. I need to see Your Drivers’ Licenses. Two. Your vehicle registration and last but not least Three. Your proof of ____________ ? Fill in the blank (and it’s not bribes or kisses if you live north of the border). Yep, you need proof of car insurance because going without it really isn’t an option.
FAQs
Why do I need to sign up for auto insurance?
A few reasons for that. First it’s the law. Requirements vary from state to state, but every driver in any state must carry carry proof of some type of auto insurance to legally drive. Second, auto insurance protects you from legal and financial obligation if you get in an accident. Depending on the situation (now did you run into county courthouse while you were drinking?), the coverage you select and your state’s insurance system. Your auto insurance may cover your expenses, the other party involved in the accident or both parties.
If I’m bad, can my insurance company cancel my policy?
Yep. But only if you are too cheap to pay your premium or your license gets suspend while your policy is active. Even if you do nothing wrong you policy can still be canceled. But in this care you’re entitled to at least 30 days notice and a refund of the unused premiums paid, minus the cost of cancellation.
What if one of my siblings or significant other steals my car keys (but texts me later so it’s okay)…are they covered?
Yep! Since your auto insurance coverage is attached to your car rather than just to you, anyone who drives your car with your permission should be covered. But make sure to check your insurance company for more details. Oh, if someone really does steal your car they are NOT covered and it’s called Grand Theft Auto (not the video game).
Should I listen to that insurance hustler behind the counter when I rent a car?
In most cases, nope. Most auto insurers today cover rentals under your standard car insurance policy. However, if you get suckered and buy insurance from the rental car counter when you go on a trip, that rental policy automatically supersedes your auto insurance policy. So don’t shoot yourself in the foot and make sure you know for sure what’s covered before you purchase any additional, short-term coverage.
I got a heavy foot. How much do speeding tickets affect my rates?
Different insurance companies have different methods of increasing rates when a insured has past speeding tickets. Depending upon state laws and the severity of the violation, your rates may or may not go up with just one ticket. But more often than not, they do go up. Slow down! Or at least get a radar detector.
My teenage boy just got his license and, when I added him to my insurance, my rates skyrocketed! Should I dump him off in Mexico?
Adding a minor to your policy was the right thing to do because it protects both him and you in case of an accident. Unfortunately, plan on coughing up the cash until he is out of the house and more experienced at driving. Meanwhile, tell him to drive defensively (consider tattooing this on his forehead), wear his seatbelt, avoid distractions and keep his grades up. If he doesn’t listen take away his Ipod. These actions can provide worthwhile discounts and help him establish a good driving record. This might lighten the load on insurance premiums, slightly.
So many idiots drive uninsured. How can I protect myself?
First tell those lazy bums to get over to www.quicksimpleinsurance.com for a free Insurance Quote It won’t cost them a dime! However uninsured drivers in the US is a real problem, especially in this economy. There is an option to get uninsured motorist coverage provides the protection you need from those model citizens who carry no insurance. With this type of coverage, your insurance company reimburses you for bodily injury, medical expense or death from an accident caused by a uninsured driver, hit-and-run drivers or a driver of a stolen car. It does not, however, cover damage to your car; you need collision coverage for that.