Thursday, July 26, 2012

How to File an Auto Insurance Claim

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Filing an insurance claim following an accident is not the most complicated procedure that ever was, but it is not as simple as saying "I have been in an accident. Take care of this for me, would you?" There are steps you must take to successfully file your claim and you will find them listed below. This is basic information and may vary depending on the state where the accident occurred.


Step 1:


While you are still at the accident scene, call 911. This will alert law enforcement that there has been an accident, and you need them to be there even if it was a minor event. In order to file a claim for an accident, there must first be a police report filed.


Step 2:


Get the other parties information. You want to have their name, contact information and auto insurance information. This will help make your claim filing go smoother.


Step 3:


If there were witnesses to the accident, get their information as well. When filing an auto insurance claim, you want all the information you can get. This makes the process easier.


Step 4:


Contact your insurance company right away. Having your insurance card with you is always a good idea for just such an occasion. The person you speak to will help you with the claim filing process. Even if you are not the one who caused the accident, you want to take this step. It is always recommended that you file a claim with your own insurance company since each company is out to protect the best interests of their own clients. Just because you are filing a claim when you are not at fault does not mean you are in any way accepting responsibility. You are simply covering all the necessary bases.


Step 5:


If the other party is indeed at fault, contact their auto insurance company as well. You should inform them that you have filed a claim through your own company and they will be seeking reimbursement since you are not at fault. Let them know that your company will also be seeking damages for all the things that they will not be paying for you. This includes all expenses that you are not covered for under you own policy.


Step 6:


You will likely get a call very soon after the accident from the responsible party's insurance company. Speak with your carrier to find out what you should or should not say to them. Also, if there is issue with personal injury, you should speak with your attorney before you talk to the other insurance company in order to best protect your interests. If you choose to speak with them, write down or record the conversation as they will be doing the same.


Step 7:


An adjuster will be coming to look at the damage done to your car. They will estimate what it is worth and either repair it or declare it a total loss. The insurance company will give you a check for the vehicle itself or for the estimated repairs. You do not have to agree with the adjuster's estimation or price offer. If you are unsure of how to proceed, speak with your insurance company or attorney.

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Thursday, July 19, 2012

How to Stay Away From Swindlers While You Are Looking For Auto Insurance Quotes

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People are taken advantage of every day. And this happens more so online than in the real world. This is not to say that every transaction done through the web is a scam. However, there is a big chance that you'd come across something illegitimate as you search for auto insurance quotes, for instance. To minimize getting tricked out of your hard earned money, here are some things you need to do or observe when planning to get a premium.


1. Do some research. Know what you're getting you're getting yourself into before you actually make a commitment. It's just like when you are dating. You don't just jump into bed with someone - he could be a serial killer for all you know. Go ahead and do some light reading. Talk to people about it too. Ask every single thing that comes to your mind. Find agents and brokers who would be willing to show you the ins and outs of auto insurance. And sign up for auto insurance quotes site services to get the right information. That should make you more confident about what you are paying for.


2. Never bite deals right away. Give yourself some time to think about it, regardless of how attractive it is or how limited the slots are. Work against the momentum, especially if it involves an unchecked expenditure. Sales people have a knack for hyping you and making you excited about a purchase. But you always have to be conscious of yourself and your surroundings and give yourself the opportunity to take everything in.


3. Read the fine print. Don't just glance and browse through the documents you are signing, especially if it is an auto insurance policy. Agents can promise you one thing. And the company can decide to give you another. Always get down to the details and comment, critique as well as negotiate the terms when money involved. That way, you minimize the risk of involving yourself in a bad transaction with people you do not know.


4. Play companies against each other. It makes no sense to be shy about the fact that you are considering other options. Most auto insurance firms already know that, even before you ask them of their merchandize. To check if you are dealing with a credible source, compare their offers upfront to what other providers are giving you. If they are able to explain comprehensible justifications which are in line with the usual truths of auto insurance, you can bet that they are not lying about what they have in store.


5. Test out the waters first. Don't dive in right away with a big insurance investment without fail-safe back up plan. It's just like when you are buying a car for the first time - you need to drive it around first and check how it works and feels. Go for a smallest monthly renewable premium first so you don't lose that much money and can back out of the payments after 30 days if you find it unsatisfactory.

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Monday, July 16, 2012

What To Know About Driver Exclusions

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Most people know someone who they would never consider driving with, either because they are scary drivers or have a bad driving history. Unfortunately for some, this person may live with you and be driving your vehicles! The question now comes, how will these drivers affect your car insurance if they are involved in an accident while using your car?


Let's face it, most people share their vehicles with others, whether it be friends, family or roommates. Generally speaking, most auto insurance policies are broad enough to cover people who you give permission to drive the vehicle. The problem in these scenarios, is there is always a chance that the insurance company may find out about the "unknown" driver and require that he/she be added to the policy, either as a rated or excluded driver. If they are added as a rated driver, that usually means you have to pay more to cover the risk, especially if they have a bad driving record! Now, you may not want to pay to cover these additional drivers, this is when the named driver exclusion becomes a beneficial alternative. In some states, this endorsement might not be available so please check your state insurance laws or ask a local agent. Essentially, someone who is listed as an excluded driver on the policy will not be rated, but they are exempt from any possible coverage! So, if you exclude your roommate on your policy and he/she gets in an accident, there would be no coverage offered by your policy.


When purchasing insurance in some states, the insurance company may run a consumer report that cross references people who are associated with the address of your household. It's very common to see people exclude the drivers associated with the address, as no one want to pay for additional drivers but this can come back to haunt them if one of them gets in an at-fault accident using their vehicle.


One of the most common usages of the driver exclusion, is when someone has a spouse who has either a really bad driver record or a suspended license. If you do exclude a spouse or anyone for that matter on your policy, remember this exclusion will stay in place until you request the exclusion be removed. For questions on driver exclusions and other endorsements, always talk to your local independent insurance agent as they are there to help you!

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Low Cost Car Insurance - Why You Need It

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When it comes to auto insurance, you really need to make sure that you get only the best in low cost car insurance. Simply put, this is because insurance is a cost that you will pay each and every month, and any savings that you can make in getting the cost down will add up, saving you a lot of money in the long run.


As well as this, it is generally a good idea to attempt to get the very best policy at a low cost, simply because if you can save money in every area that you currently have expenditure, you will end up really saving huge amounts overall, which can really help should you be in any kind of financial difficulty at the moment. As such, think of lowering your cost if you do need to save any money at all at the present time or in the near future.


On top of this, it is generally a good idea to try to be as thrifty as possible. There are many difficulties that people are facing financially at the moment, and car insurers are among some of the companies truly appreciating this fact, and attempting to offer some low cost auto insurance deals to really help those who are currently struggling financially.


This is as much for them as for the consumer, simply because they still need the business, but it is still definitely beneficial to take advantage of low cost auto insurance in this manner, as it really can save you money whether you are in difficulty at the moment or not.


Whether you need to add to savings or simply want to save up for something nice, affordable insurance is the best way to really start making positive financial changes in your life. We could all spend a little less than we do, even if we don't need to, so auto insurance is the first place to start overall. Low cost car insurance will add up over the years, and you can still get incredibly high quality coverage with low cost car insurance, making it really good value for money should you ever need to claim on it.


Simply start your search for low cost car insurance by going online, since the internet will offer the best deals possible in low cost car insurance, and there is no better place to start your hunt for savings like this.

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Sunday, July 15, 2012

Where Can You Find Good Answers To Your Car Insurance Questions?

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Most of us really do not completely understand our auto insurance policies. Sometimes we have questions about our policies, new coverage, or how to handle different situations. It may be quite easy to search for your answers on the web. You can just go to your favorite Internet search engine, type in your question, and view your results. The problem is you cannot be sure that everything you read on random web pages is really the right answer for you.


Some answers may be good, and the person who posted the answer might be a credible expert. But it may be hard for you to judge the poster's credibility for sure. Sometimes the answer was correct when it was posted, but now it is dated. In addition, insurance regulations are different in different locations. The right answer for a person in Nevada may not be the right answer for a person in New Jersey! In fact, some companies set plans and prices by zip code. You might live in the same city, as another person, but in a different zip code, and find that you have access to different insurers, plans, and price tables. When you need answers to your insurance questions, you really have to be certain that they apply to you.


Who Has Good Answers To Insurance Questions?


There are, of course, some good places to find answers about insurance policies, rules, and prices.


A local, licensed insurance agent is a great resource. He or she should know the answer to common questions. If your agent does not know the answer, he or she should be willing to research it and get back to you.


You may not always want to ask your agent every question. In some cases, the question may even be about your agent or old insurer. Another good place to get answers is your own state's insurance department. In the US, all state insurance departments have websites. You may be able to look up the answer there. If not, you can call or email them with your questions. In my experience, state insurance departments have good consumer services for their residences. They really do exist to regulate insurance and protect consumers.

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Friday, July 13, 2012

Why Free Auto Insurance Quotes Are Essential To Making the Right Decision

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The fact that the insurance market is filled with competing insurance firms means there can be no shortage of options out there. When it comes to weeding through these various policies free auto insurance quotes are invaluable, helping to set out what specific discounts, incentives and advantages are on offer.


When the best insurance rates are provided by online brokers, the task of finding the right policy is muddied a little bit. Online searches can help to discover some less than obvious options, but it is wise to speak to a broker about the full range of options before agreeing a policy at all.


When the right auto insurance policy is found, then the benefits can be significant.


Choosing The Right Policy


In order to choose the right policy, it is necessary to know what exactly is on offer first. The best way to get a feel for what can be secured is to get free auto insurance quotes from online and even traditional insurance brokers. This way, the entitlements are straight from the horses mouths.


For example, there are aspects such as the required liability that applies to a certain policy, but there are others that offer a more comprehensive coverage in the case of a collision. The best insurance rates will come with policies that typically include coverage for loss of income, medical bills and even child care costs.


Finding out what your entitlements are is the core of working out whether a particular auto insurance policy is really worth the investment or not. What is more, the best policy will also help teenagers to develop into good drivers, encouraging responsible driving by rewarding them with incentives like discounts.


Finding Where The Discounts Are


The trick to securing affordable insurance is not in the particulars of a policy itself, but in the discounts that the applicant can qualify for. Therefore, knowing how to find the greatest number of discounts is important, and free auto insurance quotes provide that precise type of information.


There are numerous aspects that need to be taken into account before an insurance broker confirms any due discounts. The driving history of the applicant is important, of course, but so too are such aspects as the car model and age, the age of the applicant and even the zip code that the applicant resides in. For the very best insurance rates, all of these factors need to have positive answers.


For example, if a driver is over the age of 55, has been driving for 35 years and has never been in an accident, then the discounts available can be extensive. If their vehicle is relatively new but modest economy model, then it can also add to the auto insurance possibilities.


Other Factors Considered


There is a general belief that, just like poor credit ratings when seeking a bank loan, any kind of blotch on a driving history is going to follow a person around for the rest of their lives. But there is no lasting stigma with accidents or incidents, and free auto insurance quotes should confirm that.


There is usually a limit placed on any previous claims, reflecting a responsibility on the part of the driver but the probability that other drivers can have an effect. Typically, good terms are available for those who have not made a claim in three years, while the best insurance rates apply to those who have not made a claim in 5 years.


What this means is that, even if a driver is at fault in an accident, they have every chance of improving their auto insurance rate over a relatively short period of time.

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Why Are Car Insurance Premiums So High?

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Car insurance can be a large part of the cost of car ownership, particularly if you own a high end, prestige car. Many things that affect the cost of car insurance are things that you as the driver have little or no control over. You cannot change your age, while things like what car you drive, where you live and what job you do can be difficult to change, and are not something you would change just for your car insurance! Driving sensibly, maintaining your car with regular car services and MOTs, avoiding accidents and motoring offences, and not modifying your car are all things that you do have control over, but there is much more to it than that. The behaviour of all drivers will affect how much everybody's car insurance premiums cost.


In particular, the growing number of insurance claims for whiplash are driving up the cost of insurance premiums by an average of £90 per year at the moment. In fact, according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI) and the Automobile Association (AA), whiplash claims are contributing to the cost of car insurances nearly doubling. Imagine how much we would all save if we stopped making claims for an injury like whiplash which is usually quite minor as well as difficult to prove.


According to the ABI a massive 570,000 people a year are claiming for whiplash injuries which cost British car insurers £2 billion in 2011. The AA feels that a large number of these are spurious or fraudulent and that the government should act decisively to deal with the issue. The government recently met with a group of insurance companies in order to discuss the possibility of increasing the limit for personal injury claims from £1000 to £5000. This would allow more whiplash cases to be dealt with by the small claims court, hopefully acting as a deterrent for fraudulent claimants who would then be billed for legal costs. Currently it is cheaper for the insurance companies to settle whiplash claims out of court, even when they suspect fraud, and this is what drives insurance premiums up for the rest of us.


The ABI does not feel this goes far enough, and has called for various measures to be implemented. These include requiring whiplash claimants to show medical evidence of injury before being entitled to compensation, either capping or reducing the amount they can claim and requiring assessment by a panel of independent doctors rather than their GP. Some countries also use bio-mechanical evidence to determine a threshold of speed under which whiplash would not realistically have occurred.


The sad fact is that there will probably continue to be fraudulent claims in one area or another of accident claims, so all the rest of us can do is continue to drive sensibly and maintain our cars responsibly. Regular car servicing and MOTs, combined with careful driving will help you to avoid accidents.

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Thursday, July 12, 2012

Explaining Car Insurance for Students

Many college students now drive their cars, and one common complaint is the high cost of car insurance for college students. The first thing to put in mind is that car insurance is seen by almost everyone to be expensive. It is viewed as an added expense, and because it is enforced, it does not have consumer-friendly connotations. Some people think having an insurance for your car is absolutely necessary. For students, it probably is.


Why is it expensive?


However, it cannot be denied that the students are hit the hardest by high insurance cost. The rationale behind the high cost of car insurance for college students is due to mainly one factor-their age.


The Age Factor


Car insurance is perhaps an area wherein age is an advantage. Insurance rates get better as you grow older. Nascent drivers are still learning how to drive and train their reflexes. The chances that they may bump their car into a signage or lamp post are high. Also, they are less equipped with skills and reflexes to avoid accidents.


The Gender


The gender of the student partly determines the cost of their auto insurance. Usually, college boys will have to pay more than college girls. Statistics indicates that teenage boys are susceptible to driving accidents and violations, most probably because they are new to the activity and they want to be adventurous. But the practice of insurers to offer more expensive insurance for males has been viewed by some critics as a form of discrimination.


Looking for Favorable Deals


It may be a challenge for students to save on car insurance. One way is to look for quotes online. There should be a few insurers who are willing to offer cheap car insurance for students. Shopping for insurances can be daunting for young drivers. You may want to get advice from mom or dad.


Opting for Temporary Insurance


Students who use their cars occasionally may opt for temporary student car insurance, which is the cheaper alternative. This allows you to avail of the coverage only when you use your car. A similar insurance product is the pay-as-you-go policy. However, check with your state authorities if insuring a car on temporary basis is legal.


Choosing the Right Car


Insurance companies classify cars in several groups, depending on price, newness, features, engine size, and so on. Usually, inexpensive cars would qualify for low premiums. The problem with many college students is that they want new stuff-new gadgets and new cars. If the car is not sleek, it will most likely be left in the garage. But new and classy cars are likely to get high insurance costs.


Adding Your Parent to the Policy


When you add a more experienced driver, like your father, on your insurance, the insurer will assume that the driving is shared. Doing this will reduce insurance premiums. Parents should not insure a car under their name if the main driver or user is their son or daughter. This is illegal.


Taking Care of Your Car


Reckless driving has several negative repercussions. One is your car can get damaged. Another is you can damage someone's car. You may crash into a property or hit a pedestrian. All the recklessness can incur liability and rise in the cost of your insurance.

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Does Age Affect Insurance Rates?

Facts state that age is inversely proportional to insurance cost. People start driving their cars during their teenage years and continue doing so for as long as they can. However, insurance companies look at teen drivers as their liability, while they give 40-year-old drivers quite an advantage. How does age affect the insurance rate?


Teens


Teens at the age of 16 can start driving after getting their license. Car insurance for 16 year old teens is quite expensive. That is why many parents just include their teenage child to their insurance policy. However, including a teenager on your insurance could be equally disadvantageous. The cost of your insurance when you include your 16 or 18 year old son or daughter on it could double. This is because teens have insignificant driving experience, making them vulnerable to driving accidents. Statistical data support the assumption that more car crashes are caused by teens than by adults.


Auto insurance for 16 year old drivers may be less expensive under certain conditions. Teens with good grades may be eligible for less expensive insurance policies. Also, owning an older, less expensive car allows them to avail of cheaper rates.


College Students


Drivers in their late teens and early twenties, usually college students, may avail of cheaper insurance rates than 16-year-olds. But don't be too hopeful. This age group still falls under the high risk category for insurance companies, and insurance rates for them may still be above the average. Insurers look for certain conditions when assigning rates on the insurance of a college student. One is how often they need to drive and how far they are from school. If your son or daughter moves out of the house and moves someplace near school, then their insurance rates can drop.


Adults


People between the age 24 and 40 get favorable rates due to the fact that they are already experienced in driving and have jobs. People in this age group are more responsible and more careful. They take less risk in anything, including driving. By this age, they already know the value of money. They want to drive carefully because they know the consequences of bad driving habits. They don't want to do anything that will drive the cost of their insurance up in the future, because they know the value of money they work hard for.


Of course, not all adults are good drivers, but majority are. This makes them eligible for lower insurance rates. Rates may be affected by gender. Men may get higher rates than women, because adult males have more bad driving records. But basing the difference on age alone, it can be assumed that car insurance for 16 year old drivers is significantly more expensive than that for 25 year old drivers.


However, being an adult does not guarantee you of average cost insurance. Age is just one factor that determines insurance rates. Even if you reach 50 and are enjoying low rates, your fate can suddenly change if you are caught driving under the influence of alcohol or if you got involved in a traffic accident. In other words, you can enjoy good insurance rates as long as you keep your good driving record.

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Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Five Smart Tips on How to Get the Best and Most Affordable Car Insurance Quotes

The quest for the best car insurance quotes is never easy. It takes a lot of patience and dedication. But you can always trust on it to pay off in the end. Given the current economy, it helps if you can find some way to save in all of your expenses, especially insurance. However, saving should not imply that you compromise your standards and expectations. You deserve the best for spending your hard earned money. And to help you get affordable car insurance, here are important tips you may apply.

1. Find a car insurance quotes review site or provider that would simplify the comparison process for you. There are a lot of them out there that will just find you auto insurance companies within your state and give you insurance quote choices for a fee. Now, before you turn down the prospect, just imagine saving yourself from all the research work and having an agent find you the best deals, without having to pay for the usual rates. Not only will you be able to save yourself some time, you also get a comprehensive look of all your options.

2. Don't get tied down. It's foolish to believe that years of patronization will get you a discount or bonus on your car insurance. That is hardly the case. Shifting is more likely to help you cut-down the investment you need for a decent insurance. Now, before you transfer, see to it that you review the terms and conditions of your former contract so you do not accidentally get yourself in a bind.

3. Keep transactions simple. Don't bother with the frills. That should cut down your insurance payments even more. Majority of the policies that will be presented to you will have a broad coverage. What you want to do is negotiate with the provider to take out the optional extras and the excess fees and just deal with your basic insurance needs, like for instance, roadside assistance.

4. Increase your deductibles. This lessens the amount you have to pay on a monthly and yearly basis, since you've pretty much covered a significant percentage of the expenditure for your car's maintenance and safety. Insurers usually prefer that you get smaller deductibles because this extends the interest payments as well. Now, as we all know, that is how they earn their income. True, it may not help you save initially. But in the long run, you'll find hundreds of dollars in difference when it comes to paying your premiums.

5. Be mindful of your car choices. Providers are quite critical about what policies they offer for specific vehicles and they consider the engine size, the availability of parts, the complexity of the mechanism, the age as well as the possible cost of repairs. If you have a highly rated car, you're probably going to pay a bigger premium. So be careful about what you buy and get insured.

These just are a few you could begin with when gathering car insurance quotes. There are a few more guidelines you can refer to online for a more satisfying transaction.

For more information about insurance quotes visit carinsurancequotes101 or http://carinsurancequotes101.com/


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Monday, July 9, 2012

How Do I Lower My Car Insurance Rates?

Lowering premium rate is a concern of everyone who has to get an auto insurance policy. Good thing is, you have several ways to lower your car insurance premium rate. Here are some effective strategies.


Insurance Quotes


Car insurance providers have their own ways to underwrite your policy based on your needs. It is wise to get several quotes for comparison before you decide to get your policy. Comparing these quotes can lead you to perfect deal where you enjoy the best coverage at reasonable cost coming from an insurance company that you believe can satisfy your needs the most.


The most convenient way to get your car insurance quotes is to use online resources. You can either visit websites of insurance companies to get your quote, or use comparison sites that allow you to get several quotes from different companies without hopping from one site to another.


Coverage


Get only the coverage you need. For instance, if you are driving an older model or type of car whose market value has dramatically depreciated, consider foregoing certain coverages such as collision. The cost of coverage may cost you more than the real cost of the risk for collision.


In determining the coverage you need, it is important that you know the current market value of your vehicle. Online, you will find several sites that offer tools for this purpose.


Keep in mind, though, that in getting your insurance, you should make it a point that you have the right kind and amount of coverage. Otherwise, you may have to spend more from your pocket which, of course, is what you want to avoid by having your vehicle insured.


Deductibles


To lower your auto insurance rate, raise your deductible. This is the amount you are willing to shoulder before your insurance provider takes over the financial responsibility under the terms and conditions of your car insurance policy.


In raising your deductible, consider an amount that you are comfortable to part with if you need to fulfill your obligation. The higher the amount of your deductible, the lower you can pull down your car premium rate. For instance, if you raise it to $500, you can enjoy anywhere between 15-30% off your premium rate, and a $1,000 deductible can lower your auto insurance rate from 40% up.


It is best to use this method when you generally have a clean driving record, low mileage, and you have security and safety devices installed in your car for protection. The point here is, if the risk is low, you will benefit much from raising your deductible.


Defensive Driving


Car insurance is costly because of risks. One of the most effective ways to lower cost is to lower the risks such as keeping a good driving record. This means that you exercise all precautionary measure and be more careful in driving. It also helps that you drive less to cut your exposure to risks. As you can see, accidents happen even to the best drivers.


These are the things you can control to lower your car insurance rates. Never drive on the road without the necessary protection your insurance policy can give you, especially now that you know how to lower its cost.

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Sunday, July 8, 2012

How To Reduce Insurance Costs For Young and Inexperienced Drivers

It is a well-documented fact that car insurance for new drivers is expensive and in many cases costs much more than the vehicle itself. In the UK, insurance is compulsory so there is no getting around the fact that in order to remain on the right side of the law, every vehicle must have third party liability insurance as a minimum. There are different levels of cover, however, third party remains the most basic form of insurance, and even though it is the most basic level of cover, it can still be very expensive for young drivers.


The reasons why insurance is expensive is due to statistics which show the following:


1) A young driver, who just passed their test, is more likely to have an accident in their first year of driving, than at any other time in their driving history.


2) Based on a mile per mile basis, the risk of an accident occurring involving injury, serious injury or death is approximately seven times higher for drivers aged 17 to 20 than for those over 40.


3) Drivers under the age of 21 are involved in some way or another in 15% of accidents resulting in death.


4) Even though young drivers account for 10% of license holders, they are responsible for approximately 30% of all road accidents.


Based on these statistics, car insurers look at the risks posed by young and inexperienced drivers and base their price on statistics and likelihood of having to pay out on a claim.


There are several measures a young and/or inexperienced driver can take in order to reduce their insurance premium such as:


1) Additional driving courses such as the pass plus test which costs approximately £150.00. Some companies will offer up to 35% discount on their insurance.


2) Volunteer to pay a higher excess. The most common excess is £150.00, however, by volunteering to pay a higher excess, the insurance premium will be lower in most cases.


3) Clean driving license. A clean license demonstrates to an insurance company that they are dealing with a cautious driver hence being looked favourably upon when calculating the costs.


4) Paying for the insurance in one go. This will avoid paying interest, unless the insurance company is offering monthly payments interest free.


5) Shopping around, this can pay dividends as there can be a considerable difference between one insurance company and another, according to the ABI it can be as much as 35%.


6) Due to statistics, females pay slightly lower premiums and there are some companies which specialise in insuring women only.


These are just a number of pointers which will assist a young and inexperienced driver in reducing their insurance costs.


Simply Driving Lessons is a leading Surrey driving school covering the areas of Redhill, Reigate, South Nutfields, Horley, Merstham and surrounding areas.


Offering some of the most competitive driving lessons rates in the local areas and impressive pass rates, they also have fully qualified ADI driving instructors including female driving instructors.


Simply Driving Lessons specialise in a range of driving courses and lessons including intensive driving courses, Check Test training, Pass Plus driving lessons as well as standard driving lessons for all learner drivers, no matter their age.

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Saturday, July 7, 2012

Keep Your Teen Driver Safe: Make a Contract

The U.S. Department of Transportation reported that 3,490 drivers between the ages of 15 and 20 years old died in motor vehicle crashes in 2006 and an additional 272,000 were injured. Drivers in this age group accounted for 12.9 percent of the drivers involved in fatal crashes and 16 percent of the drivers involved in police-reported crashes.


Drivers between the ages of 15 and 20 years old have the highest rate of fatal crashes among all age groups including the elderly. The risk of being involved in a fatal crash is three times greater for teens than for people between the ages of 65 to 69.


Lack of driving experience and taking unnecessary risks are the two main reasons for the high crash rate among teens. However, both of these issues can be addressed, and their impact on a teenage driver's safety significantly reduced when parents assume a proactive role in their teenagers' driver education.


One of the best ways to accomplish this is by drawing up a driving contract between you and your teen driver. Teendriving.com offers the following advice about what to include in your contract:


Specify which car(s) the teen is allowed to drive - The car should have a driver's side airbag, a good safety rating, and be easy to maneuver


Make the teen responsible for gas, oil changes, tire pressure checks, regular maintenance requirements, and keeping the car clean inside and out.


Have the teen agree to pay for insurance - Paying insurance costs with a part-time job provides some incentive for avoiding reckless behavior.


Specify that the teen must follow these rules or be subject to some agreed upon, pre-determined penalty:

Always obeying the speed limit and traffic laws.Always wearing seat belts and making sure that all passengers are buckled up before driving.Never driving after drinking or using drugs - The contract should state that teens are not allowed to drink and drive, have alcohol in the car, or even be a passenger in a car with a driver who has been drinking or using drugs. Assure your teen that they can always call you to come get them if they are stranded at a gathering.Not driving with friends in the car - Teens should not be allowed to drive with friends or even younger siblings in the car for the first six to twelve months of having their license unless an adult is also in the car.Not using cell phones or texting while driving.Letting you know where they are going and when they plan to return.Maintaining curfews - Set realistic curfews, but also tell teens that if they are running late, it's always better to drive safely than speed to make up the minutes. They should call you if possible to let you know they are on the way home.
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No Down Payment Car Insurance: Does It Benefit You?

There are different types of car insurance packages on the market. Many of these products are aimed at clients on a budget. One example is the no down payment auto insurance. Insurers may ask customers to provide a down payment for the insurance product they buy. Before taking the no down payment option, take the time to look at grand totals of both options. In some cases, the no money down insurance may prove to be more expensive than standard auto insurance.


No down payment car insurance allows drivers and car owners to obtain insurance for their cars without any initial payments. The arrangement is that you pay via installments, typically meaning monthly payments. The entire cost of the insurance product is broken down to 12 months of payment. When customers have a large enough budget, they can pay the entire year of insurance in advanced. Doing so not only saves them the hassle of making monthly payments, but a one-time payment costs less than the sum of 12 monthly installments of the no down payment counterpart. Insurance companies explain the differences in these totals as they do less administrative work in processing a lump sum yearly payment.


For many people, absorbing the yearly cost of an insurance product in one shot is overwhelming. Insurance companies have devised an alternative method of helping customers with strict budgets to pay their car insurance, which is beneficial for both the company and the client. No down payment insurance seems friendly because of the small monthly payments that stretch over the year. For many people, especially working professionals receiving a monthly salary, this kind of arrangement is more manageable. They no longer have to deal with a large lump sum payment.


The disadvantage is often realized by the end of the year, when one looks at the total sum of payments throughout the year and compares it to the standard amount of an insurance product. By making comparative calculations, the difference can actually be staggering. Insurance on an installment basis is exempt from deals, coupons and discounts. Furthermore, insurers add interest to monthly installments, driving up the payments in the long run, which you might not notice at first.


Keep in mind that no down payment auto insurance binds you in a contract. The stipulations of the contract vary among the providers. Usually, late or missing payments mean forfeiture of the insurance. This is avoidable as long as you meet your payment obligations. There are different types of no money down insurance arrangements. Some firms commit you to a six-month insurance policy, locking you in for at least six months. Other companies charge you on a monthly basis without any specified term, so you can discontinue anytime. These subtle differences may not be fully explained to you the moment you sign on the dotted line, so you must read and understand the insurance policy details before signing up.


Many people who require immediate insurance opt for no down payment insurance while looking for other favorable policies. Short term insurance may be ideal for this type of situation. Again, be sure to read the terms and conditions of the policy before making agreements. You do not want to be stuck with an auto insurance policy that does not meet your needs and that you cannot cancel.


Even no down payment insurance may require an initial payment before the insurance coverage becomes effective. It is important not to be misled, so feel free to ask questions to the insurer.

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Friday, July 6, 2012

Three Reasons Why People Need To Take a Look at Auto Insurance Quotes

According to statistics, one in seven American drivers is uninsured today. That is 13.8% of the motorist population in the country. And one of the major reasons pointed out was unemployment and unreliable source of income. It may not seem like an important investment right now while you are healthy and safe. But it doesn't take a lot of study to find out just how important having auto insurance is. So before you refuse to look for auto insurance quotes, here are some of the major reasons why you should never think about driving without one.


First of all, it is mandated by law. Nearly all states in the United States are requiring drivers to carry with them a minimum amount of auto liability insurance. And although it may not be enough, it's usually set low so that everyone can comply. For example, in Louisiana and Florida, the liability coverage baseline is only $10,000, which means a premium payment of less than $1000 per month. This is certainly less inconvenient than having to pay $500 to $5000 in fines for not being able to present insurance as well as jail-time of one to five days. So far, only Tennessee is lenient to the lack of insurance affiliations. But if you are planning to cross states, you will not be protected by its laws.


Next, auto insurance helps you take responsibility for accidents. You can meet a number of mishaps on the road, regardless of how good of a driver you are. With insurance, you'd be able to pay for damages. And depending on the terms you've signed up for, you may even get auto companies to replace your vehicle. Imagine how much you can actually save in that situation. Parts alone can cost anywhere from $250 to thousands of dollars and labor charges are at around $80 to $150 per hour.


Third, auto insurance also safeguards your interests against other unwanted repercussions caused motor collisions like lawsuits. Legal procedures are not cheap, which is why it is quite helpful that you have an insurance policy that guarantees you financial support during such an experience. In addition it also helps you replace stolen goods, along with your vehicle. If you have a car insurance that covers such an incident, you will not have to feel so depressed about misplacing your stuff. Although the sentimental and work value of all those possessions lost will never be restored, at the very least, you will not have to worry about how you can buy all of them again. It is also important to note that car insurances assist you when it comes to dealing with vehicle injuries caused by natural disasters such as earthquakes.

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Thursday, July 5, 2012

Ways on How to Save on Car Insurance

Did you know that owning a car is not cheap? You don't simply drive it and pay for gas? No, owning a car is expensive. There are many reasons why and insurance is one of them. So, before you buy a car, think about car insurance. Auto insurance is mandated by law. If you drive your car, make sure you carry the required insurance policy on it. Cheap car insurance may suffice minimum state requirements. But don't be too quick in getting cheap insurance.


How do you choose your car insurance policy?


1. Choose the appropriate car. Insurance companies assign values to cars, and different cars have different values that would affect the cost of insurance. Insurers are most likely to look at the cost of repairs if the car gets into trouble. If your car is expensive, repairs for it will likely be expensive too. Hence, these firms will assign a high cost on your car. Before you buy a new car, think about how possibly its price will affect its insurance.


2. How often do you drive? If you stay in your office 8 hours a day, chances are you only drive to work and back home. There is not too much mileage there. Insurers look at you as a candidate for cheap auto insurance, because they will not likely spend for your car repairs because the less you drive your car, the smaller your chances of getting involved in a car accident.


3. Consider the insurance product that suits your driving habits. A lot of car owners do not really drive too often. These people may do well with pay-as-you-go car insurance, which is much cheaper than standard ones. You cannot cheat the insurer because a tracking device will be attached to your car. At some point, this type of insurance may prove to be insufficient.


4. Consider the minimum state requirement. Some states require car owners to purchase at least liability insurance. In case, you bumped your car into someone else's and their car's side got dented, your insurer will pay for the damages you caused. But if your car was damaged, you will spend for the repairs with your own money.


5. Be a good driver. Good drivers are rewarded with low cost insurance, because the insurers will think they are less likely to be involved in road accidents. It takes a while before you can earn the reputation of a good driver. First time drivers would have to contend with high premiums for their car insurance. If you want nice auto insurance deals in the future, drive in such a way that you will not end up being chased by the cops on the road.


6. Improve driving skills. Inexperience is the reason insurance companies give new drivers high cost on their insurance. Statistics indicate that young drivers are likely to be involved in car accidents. As implied earlier, you can do little about the high cost of insurance, but you can make yourself qualify for cheaper insurance in 3 or 5 years by improving your driving skills.


7. Look for the best deal online. Shopping for auto insurance can be daunting. Some agents trick you into signing up for an expensive insurance with inclusions that you do not need. You can ditch that insurer by the end of the insurance term and look for favorable deals online.

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Who to Use for Cheap Car Insurance Quotes

You might be content with your car insurance. But are you receiving the most comprehensive coverage at the best price? Your friends and family might be paying a lot less with their insurance coverage, even if you're driving a similar type and class of vehicle. This is because insurance providers take into account multiple factors when accessing the risk and putting forward a quotation. It is possible to avoid paying over the odds but taking the time to search online for a cheap car insurance premium that works best for your individual requirements and lifestyle.


If your car insurance is coming up for renewal you can shop for alternative quotes either by going direct to one of the mainstream insurance companies, using an insurance agent or broker, or to simplify the process, using a price comparison site.


If obtaining a quotation direct from an insurer provider, you won't be told if similar coverage is on offer elsewhere for a more competitive premium - you would just be limiting yourself to receiving a quotation from one particular company. Coverage options might also be restrictive to what else might be available on the market; an insurer is likely to be reluctant to point out any shortcomings that might appear on the policy. A lot of motorists presume it is easier and cheaper to just obtain a quotation from a well-known insurer as this takes out the middleman. But this is rarely true, it is always a wise step to comparison shop multiple quotes to make sure you negotiate the cheapest car insurance quote available.


An insurance agent or broker is able to search the market for multiple policies, so you ought to receive an attractive rate going this route. However, as a lot of the brokers are tied to a select few insurance underwriters, the search for insurance coverage might not be overly wide. Some brokers might be limited to placing their business with just one or two different insurance providers. Of course, the expertise that's offered by a broker will be invaluable to some; even so, if wishing to use the services of a broker it is a good idea to obtain quotes from several different sources.


A price comparison website is an effective way to get the most competitive deals on your car insurance. These types of sites can compare literally hundreds of different insurers, including the more specialist companies, in a matter of minutes - and you only need to enter your personal and vehicle details once. So it is possible to save great deal of time - and money, too.

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Sunday, July 1, 2012

Soaring Car Insurance for Pensioners



Soaring Car Insurance for Pensioners


Supermarket comparison has become imperative after a research conducted by a consumer group revealed that the cost of car insurance increases when an owner crosses a certain age limit. In some cases, it is difficult to give them a policy. The research was conducted among hundreds of insurers and it was discovered that the cost of car insurance dramatically shoots up for the pensioners.


For example, the annual policy worldwide costs £383 when the insured person is seventy-four years old, whereas just after one year, the cost of car insurance of the same individual shot up to £707. Just because the person has fallen into the higher age criteria, the cost of insurance increased by £324.


After a comparison of 98 insurance policies provided worldwide, only five offered car insurance policy to the customers of over eighty years of age. There were other conclusions of the research that said that individuals above 81 years of age have to pay higher premiums for the car insurances and 60% of the insurers refuse to provide any cover for those customers. The chief executive of the research believes that the older customers do not get a much affordable deal for their car insurances.


However, the above conclusions may not be true in all cases. The customers should go through a supermarket comparison. There are different policies for every individual, which are provided based on the details provided by the customers. The customers should take quotes from various car insurance companies. It is only after a thorough comparison of all the quotes that a customer should choose a suitable quote.


A customer must always seek car insurance quotes with his true personal details. Any misguidance may give birth to hassles for the customer. The old people do not need to worry, as there are companies that provide a genuine risk cover at affordable rates.


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Before the event car insurance policies



Before the event car insurance policies


If you compare car insurance policies, you would come across a term called ‘before the event’ insurance covers that offer flexible insurance solutions. These policies provide the customers with expenditures of legal fees in the event of any litigation. In general cases, these types of insurance covers are opted alongside car insurance or home insurance plans, which the customers can go for even before the event of any personal injury or damage.


Legal cases are expensive, time consuming and traumatic for many people. the solicitor’s fee and other legal expenditures can make your pockets empty in a single day. This product is growing in popularity but still, awareness about this product is not widely spread. The compensation you get might exceed your legal expenditures if you do not take proper measures at the right time. By opting for a before the event insurance plan for your vehicle, you can make sure that expert solicitors are there with you in the event of a litigation after an accident. They guide you for your chances to receive the compensation money in your court cases.


‘Before the event’ insurance cover is an inexpensive add on with your car insurance or even your home insurance, that is helpful in taking care of a number of problems related to finances in a court case due to an unfortunate accident involving injuries to self and/or others. In addition, the customers also get an expert opinion and guidance throughout the duration of the court case.


This policy is specially designed to cover the risks associated with legal claims, for the driver as well as the third party whose property has been damaged or personal injury done. However, in these, insurance add ons, the driver may not be able to select their own expert solicitors and carry on with the risk of the solicitor appointed by the insurance company.


While purchasing a perfect car insurance policy for your vehicle, you must compare the insurance market for various options available and select the most profitable one for you.

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Car Insurance for Your Hybrid Cars



Car Insurance for Your Hybrid Cars


With the options available to compare car quotes, insuring any car of your dreams finally comes true. If you are longing for a brand new hybrid car, this is the right time. Insurance companies are offering legible incentives to customers of up to ten percent if you are buying a hybrid car. Exactly, what is a hybrid car? A hybrid car uses two especially distinct engines with other motor power sources.

You can get the same discount applicable even if you are renting your hybrid vehicle or putting the car on lease. The reason why you get such benefits is that it is obvious that you fall under the low risk category under the insurance policies. Other feature which promotes a hybrid car insurance is that people with hybrid cars fall in the ages between 40 and 60, the ones who are financially secured. However, increased environmental issues make some differences in the insurance rates offered by the companies. Make sure that you are an environmentally sound person playing your role with ease for the environment.


In cases where you are using an environmentally safe fuel, you are more likely to get discount and you will be able to save up a decent amount annually on your insurance scheme. As per the insurance policies, the greater safety you can provide for your car, the lesser will be your premiums. Make sure that your hybrid car has all of the standard safety devices, such as safety airbags, anti theft instruments and anti braking devices. The greater your car is secured, the better insurance rates would be applicable for you.


A good driving history and discounts on multiple policies will ensure you to get best bets off your policy. The best way would be either to compare car quotes online or directly to help you get the best deals for yourself.

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