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Crash Course: What Recent Accident Data Says About Vehicle Safety

February 15, 2019

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that for one person killed in a vehicle crash, eight others were hospitalized, and 99 people went to the ER to be treated and released in 2017.

Recent traffic accident data from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) noted a small decrease in American roadside deaths in 2017 (37,133) compared with 2016 (37,461). This number has been steadily increasing since 2013 before its recent drop. The U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao recognized this downward trend, but also expressed that there’s still work to be done to decrease roadside deaths significantly. Here’s what we can learn from recent accident data.

Weather-Related Accidents are Deadly

Winter isn’t over yet. If you’re planning to brave the icy roads, make sure to replace worn tires, check your battery for damage, and get enough antifreeze circulating under the hood. The recent polar vortex blanketed Illinois states like Chicago and Harvey in the snow. This caused drivers to deal with slippery roads and poor visibility.

According to 2007 – 2016 averages by the U.S. DOT, more than 5,891,000 crashes happened per year. It’s a scary statistic for every driver, but auto insurance often has comprehensive coverage that addresses natural disasters and collisions.

Accidents Often Happen to the Youth and the Elderly

One of the interesting contrasts we found was between teenaged and elderly drivers. According to the AAA Foundation of Traffic Safety’s 2014-2015 American Driving Survey, drivers aged 16-17 crashed their vehicles more than any of the other age groups. When it comes to fatal crashes, however, the same group is tied with drivers aged 80 and above. Both groups ranked higher than others in that category, as well.

NHTSA data also says that drivers over 65 are more prone to fatal crashes than younger drivers. The next time you’re letting your teenager or your elderly parents drive, it’s best to go with them to provide guidance. Better yet, take the wheel yourself.

The Importance of Seatbelts

There are times when we take our seat belts for granted. And some of us just use them for the sake of compliance. However, this minor inconvenience actually saves lives. Almost half of the people killed in automobile accidents in 2017 weren’t wearing seatbelts. Over 89% who survived daytime crashes and 85% who survived night time ones were buckled up.

NHTSA’s seatbelt survey also found an increasing trend in the use of seat belts because a growing number of states are implementing stricter laws about it. This upward trend in seat belt use is also accompanied by a downward slope in daytime crash fatalities. It just goes to show that when it comes to driving, there’s no such thing as “too safe.”

If there’s anything that recent road safety data has taught us, it’s that safe roads are often safe because of responsible drivers. We should all do our part and keep our vehicles maintained, guide the youth and elderly when they’re driving, and follow state traffic laws by heart.

Get Your Vehicle Insured

Vehicle accidents are a pain both physically and financially. Even the smallest dents cost a fortune. We at Oxford Auto Insurance can help you get affordable auto insurance that meets your needs. Our partner companies can also provide instant proof of insurance. Visit www.oxfordauto.com now to find the right car insurance for you.



Driving in Illinois Without Car Insurance Has Repercussions

January 18, 2019

The state law of Illinois requires every individual to have an insurance ID card in their car at all times when they drive. But what happens if you don’t have one and you get caught?

Financial Protection on the Road

All 50 states — including Washington, D.C. — require all drivers and car owners to have proof of insurance or proof of financial responsibility. The minimum liability coverage is enough for some drivers in Chicago while others still go for other car insurance like SR-22, which is necessary for high-risk drivers.

The minimum coverage required by the state of Illinois for all registered vehicles are as follows:

  • $25,000 for bodily injury per individual
  • $50,000 bodily injury per accident
  • $25,000 for property damage per accident
  • $25,000 for uninsured motorist coverage per individual
  • $50,000 for uninsured motorist coverage per accident

The bottom line is that driving without insurance is illegal. And it comes with consequences. For instance, you may face:

  • Tickets and fines for not having proof of insurance
  • Suspension of your driver’s license
  • Reinstatement fees to claim driver’s license
  • Impounding of your vehicle
  • Potential jail time

The hardest part is when you wind up in a fender-bender without carrying insurance. The other party has the legal right to sue you for the damage to their car and other medical bills caused by the accident.

The Repercussions

Driving in Illinois without insurance can get you into trouble. When the cops pull you over for over-speeding or drunk driving, the first thing they will ask for is your driver’s license, followed by your insurance ID card.

Without the verification of proof of insurance, you may have to pay fines. The first and second offense will cost you from $501 to $1,000. You will have to pay an additional $1,000 if you’re driving with suspended plates because of an insurance violation.

Expect that the state will take your driving privileges. You will have to surrender your driver’s license and registration, which may be suspended for about three months. To get them back, you have to pay the $100 reinstatement fee.

Every subsequent offense will cost you more, specifically $1,000 more. And you will be required to pay an additional $2,500 fine if you faced conviction twice and you wound up in an accident.

After repeat offenses, you won’t just have to pay the $100 reinstatement fee. You will also need to provide proof of financial responsibility, such as the SR-22 certificate, that’s valid for three years.

All this explains why driving with an SR-22 certificate in Illinois is smart — and necessary.

Getting an SR-22 Certificate

At Oxford Auto Insurance, we can help you find affordable SR-22 insurance coverage. We can help you get the proof of financial responsibility that the state requires.

You need it for many reasons, especially when you get caught:

  • Driving under the influence (DUI, DWI)
  • Driving with expired plates
  • Driving with a suspended or revoked driver’s license
  • Driving after receiving too many tickets in a short period

Contact us today for more information.



The Need for Helmet Use Law in Illinois

January 17, 2019

Motorcyclists are more vulnerable on the road, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III). They also have higher chances of winding up in an accident than other drivers. In spite of this, Illinois remains one of the three states in America, alongside Iowa and New Hampshire, that doesn’t enforce the use of helmet among motorcyclists.

The Effects of No Helmet Use Law

In Chicago, motorcycle insurance can provide the coverage you need should you get involved in a fender-bender. A helmet, on the other hand, may reduce your risk for severe head and brain injury because it may minimize the impact of a collision or force to the head.

In 2017, there was a 5.6 percent decrease in the motorcycle fatalities across the U.S., with an estimated 4,990 deaths. The nationwide numbers may be dropping, but the figures in Illinois are on the rise.

Motorcycle fatalities in the state went up by 5.2 percent. From 154 fatalities in 2016, there were about 162 deaths in Illinois in 2017. Not wearing protective gear, such as a helmet, contributes to the rising figures in the state.

Efforts to Encourage Helmet Use

Some motorcyclists in Chicago are still responsible enough to use a helmet when driving, even without state law. The 2017 Motorcycle Helmet Usage in Illinois Study proves this, revealing that the city had the highest helmet usage rate at 51.1 percent.

How is the state encouraging helmet use despite the absense of a law?

Illinois carried out a “Start Seeing Motorcycles” campaign in a bid to reduce motorcycle accidents. The state also declared May as “Motorcycle Awareness Month” to further educate motorcyclists about gearing up and riding smart on the roadways.

The Illinois Department of Transportation implemented all these as key reminders for motorcycle riders. As a motorcyclist, it’s your responsibility to:

  • Wear a helmet, even without a law enforcing it
  • Put on high-visibility clothing
  • Drive sober
  • Stay out of the blind spots of vehicles
  • Safely pass other vehicles on the road
  • Follow the minimum of three-second following distance while riding behind another vehicle

The need for helmets isn’t just to keep you alive; it may help you recover damages for injuries to the head. Wearing your helmet may not be the deciding factor to your injury claim, but it shows you’re a responsible motorcyclist. It could also indicate the negligence of the other driver. Insurance companies may also take helmet use into consideration. For example, if you were not wearing a helmet and sustained injuries during an accident, you may have to prove to the insurer that you would still have been injured even with a helmet.

Keep in mind that you’re not just protecting yourself when you’re on the road; you’re also protecting the lives of other drivers and pedestrians. But to further protect yourself when you’re out riding your motorcycle, you need motorcycle insurance.

Added Protection With Motorcycle Insurance

Motorcycle insurance gives you the confidence and the protection you need when on the road, especially if you get involved in an accident. At Oxford Auto Insurance, you can choose from our competitive rates on different kinds of motorcycles. We offer:

  • Full coverage
  • Medical payments
  • Roadside assistance plans

Talk to us today for your motorcycle insurance needs.



Safety First: Motorcyclists Need Caution and Insurance

December 4, 2018

Motorcycle riding has gained popularity over the years. The problem, however, is it’s seen as a threat to the safety on the road rather than an adventurous venture. That is why, as a motorcycle rider, you have to ride with caution and get the right motorcycle insurance you can find in Chicago.

Ride a Motorcycle Safely

Riding is generally safe. But accidents and fatal crashes can happen. Although the number of fatalities have gone down to 5.6 percent, motorcyclists are still 28 times more likely to wind up in an accident. Most of these crashes are a result of not taking all the proper safety precautions. In most cases, being careful about how you ride and how you respond to other motorists on the road could keep you out of harm’s way. Safety on the road can also start before you even ride.

Here’s what you can do as a responsible motorcycle rider:

  • Wear appropriate clothing. Dress in a manner that wouldn’t potentially put your life in danger. Avoid wearing shorts, shirts, and sandals.
  • Keep your eyes on the road. Believe it or not, other motorcyclists have been found to have been texting or talking on the phone before they wound up in an accident. Distractions can lead to a fatal crash.
  • Always put on protective headgear. Some people may think that not wearing a helmet looks cool, but it’s not worth the risk. Your helmet could keep you alive should you end up in a crash.

These are the responsibility of every motorcycle rider and it’s not just a requirement in Illinois. Protecting yourself means protecting other drivers and pedestrians on the road.

Avoid the Dangers of Motorcycle Riding

The Insurance Information Institute (III) reports that motorcyclists are more vulnerable on the road. Most motorcycle riders tend to go slower than larger cars, but the external environment leaves them more vulnerable on public roadways.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shares that at least 80 percent of motorcycle crashes result in injury or death.

Motorcyclists need to make sure that they pay close attention to their maneuvering skills at all times. This could be mentally and physically taxing.

On another note, the anti-lock brake intends to keep motorcyclists safe as they ride. The good news is they work because 7 percent of motorcycle riders with anti-lock brakes are less likely to end up in a fatal crash compared to those without them.

Cautious riding is necessary; riding with the right protection from comprehensive insurance is even better. At Oxford Auto Insurance, you can have the maximum coverage you need.

Get an Extensive but Affordable Coverage

Hit the road without worrying too much with our motorcycle insurance plans. Work with us and we will look for the most competitive rates among a variety of motorcycle insurance plans.

We have a team who will help you find the financial protection you need. Worry less and pay less for the right motorcycle coverage. Talk to us and receive a free quote today.



Myth Buster: 4 Truths About Auto Insurance

December 3, 2018

When it comes to knowledge about car insurance, you may think you know the basics, but do you know enough? A 2017 survey of 1,165 auto insurance consumers by insurance search engine The Zebra revealed that 99 percent failed to identify 10 basic insurance coverage types and terms.

Though the survey only reflects a small fraction of the entire driving population, it’s still concerning to know how misinformed vehicle owners are. Worse, some of what they do know about auto insurance are based on myths and hearsay.

Here, we’ll give you examples of common car insurance myths and the truth behind them.

Myth 1: Red cars are more expensive to insure.

Fact: We’re not sure where this myth came from, but it’s surprising how many people believe this. In one survey by the online insurance comparison site insuranceQuotes.com, 44 percent believe red cars have more expensive insurance coverage.

The truth is, many factors affect the cost of your car insurance. These factors include:

  • Your car’s make and model
  • Your car’s engine size
  • Your car’s body type.
  • Your car’s age
  • Your age
  • Your driving record
  • Your credit history

Other factors such as the cost of repairing your vehicle and how popular your car is with thieves may also affect your insurance rate. What’s not a factor is the specific color of your car.

Myth 2: Your credit score doesn’t matter when applying for car insurance.

Fact: You know your credit score is important when you’re obtaining new credit, but some don’t think the same when it comes to getting car insurance. The truth is in most states, car insurance companies view your credit scores to predict the odds that you’ll file a claim.

If you have a good credit history, you have a better chance of getting an insurance policy for the right price. However, people with bad credit scores or those called high-risk drivers may pay a higher premium to insure their vehicles.

Myth 3: If another person drives your car and gets into an accident, it’s their insurance policy that will cover the charges.

Fact: Some people think that just because they’re not driving when their car is involved in a collision, they’re not in charge of the insurance.

In most states, insurance follows the car, not the driver. This means that regardless of who’s driving your vehicle at the event of a collision or any other accident, it’s your car insurance company that will cover the cost of damages.

Myth 4: You can keep your insurance rates from rising by not filing a claim.

Fact: Some drivers hesitate to file a claim with their insurance company when they get into an accident because they fear that their rates will automatically rise. The catch in this is that when you get involved in an accident with another driver, they may file for damage or injury claims. If they do, your insurance company will still know about the accident.

Additionally, your car insurance rates will increase only if you’re the at-fault driver, you live in a no-fault state, or the insurance company deems you more likely to get into another accident.

While some of these myths have convincing origins or reasons behind them, they’re still not entirely true and believing so could keep you from making the most out of your auto insurance policy.

Your Reliable Auto Insurance

Whether you need an auto, SR-22, or motorcycle insurance in Chicago, let Oxford Auto Insurance protect your car for you. With different payment plans and multiple companies, we provide some of the most comprehensive and low-cost insurance packages in the state of Illinois.

Visit Oxford Auto Insurance today to learn more.



Why You Need More Than the Basic Liability Insurance

October 30, 2018

Driving around Illinois requires protection. As of October 16 this year, 761 fatal crashes have occurred in the state’s public roadways. For this reason, the state law requires the basic liability insurance for all vehicle drivers. But the minimum liability coverage isn’t enough.

Drive with confidence in Cicero IL with comprehensive car insurance.

The Minimum Liability Coverage

The minimum liability coverage required by the state may offer a certain level of financial protection if you get involved in a collision, but it only covers the losses of other drivers in a road incident that you may have caused.

This is what the minimum liability coverage includes:

  • $20,000 for damage to another person’s property
  • $25,000 for bodily injuries per individual
  • $50,000 total for bodily injury per accident
  • $25,000 for uninsured motorist bodily injury per individual
  • $50,000 for uninsured motorist bodily injury for every accident

Should you get into a fender bender, the policy only ensures you are held responsible for the other party’s costs in the accident you may have caused. If you noticed, the minimum coverage does not include you. What if you incur an injury from the incident as well?

What you need is the insurance with the coverage you need should you get into a collision.

The Coverage that Suits your Needs

A full insurance coverage for your car covers a variety of risks. Your vehicle, whether old or new, will benefit from the insurance. Without the right policy, you might end up spending out of the pocket because the costs of damage will most likely affect your finances.

But before buying auto insurance, here are two questions you will want to consider:

  • How often do you drive?

Your policy should reflect how frequently you use your car. If you don’t drive as much, a mileage-based insurance may be right for you. If you use your car for work, get commercial auto insurance because a personal auto policy will not cover whatever you may be transporting with your car for work.

  • What kind of car do you own or drive?

The auto insurance you need also highly depends on the type of car you drive. Classic or modified cars need special insurance while vehicles with the latest safety features and a good safety record could give you discounts for insurance.

A policy with a more extensive coverage is what you want and need. At Oxford Auto Insurance, we have the means to provide you with the policy that suits your needs at a reasonable cost.

Valuable Insurance at Affordable Rates

Let us help you look for the right car insurance in Cicero. By working with us, you will enjoy the following perks:

  • Lower rates: We have flexible payment plans and we shop more than 15 insurance providers to find the right policy for you.
  • Best value: Regardless of your bad credit rating or your poor driving record, we will get the insurance policy that best covers your unique needs.
  • Superior services: With two local offices in Cicero, we made the application process easier and more accessible. We can also help you get a quote or buy insurance online.

To get or renew your car insurance, contact us today.



Auto Verification for Auto Insurance Will Soon Begin in Illinois

October 29, 2018

Illinois plans to automate verification of auto insurance within the year to make sure that every vehicle on the road is covered, but the state has yet to have a database required for electronic verification.

The state will begin collecting funds to design and create the database from a council of insurance companies created to reduce vehicle theft and insurance fraud.

Henry Haupt, the spokesperson for the Illinois Secretary of State’s office, said in a public statement that 75 cents will be taken from the council every year to fund the creation of the electronic database. Once the database is created, automated verifications for car insurance will take place at random at least twice a year.

What Does This Mean for Drivers

The new law will eventually discontinue and nullify physical insurance cards, as your proof of insurance will be simply your license plate.

To implement the new law, the Illinois Secretary of State will be working closely with every insurance company in the state. The new law will require all insurance companies to provide a list of all their covered drivers, along with other relevant insurance information, to the Secretary of State. All this information will be compiled into the electronic database that keeps track of all the drivers covered with insurance and the amount of coverage each driver has.

Reducing Car Collisions

The new law goes in line with the same goal of the recent price hikes of car insurances in Illinois: to reduce car collisions.

Versus all other US states, annual car insurance costs in Illinois are greatly influenced by your history of driving violations. For example, a DUI violation will raise your average insurance rate by 126 percent. In other US states, the average increase will only be 72 percent.

As a driver, it is your legal responsibility to have at least basic liability insurance when driving on public roads. According to the Department of Treasury, vehicle owners must have insurance limits of at least $25,000 BI (bodily injury) per person, $50,000 per occurrence, and $20,000 in property damage coverage.

The first and second time you get caught driving without insurance, you will receive a fine between $500 and $1,000. Your succeeding offense can result in the suspension of your driver’s license. If you cause a serious accident while uninsured, you can end up in jail for up to one year.

Competitive Car Insurance Rates in Illinois

To help you find the most competitive car insurance rates, Oxford Auto Insurance is here to help. As one of the leading auto insurance agencies in Harvey, Illinois, we always strive to give you flexible payment plans and multiple options – and we do not just stop there. You can also come to us to look for competitive rates for insurance renewals.

For over 65 years, we have been serving Chicago residents with everything they need to know about auto insurance, SR-22 insurance, and motorcycle insurance. We are proud to be a member of the Trusted Choice Insurance Network and the Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois.

For more information, get in touch with us today.



Why Illinois Drivers Need Good Auto Insurance Coverage

September 26, 2018

The mandatory auto insurance law of Illinois requires drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage in case they cause a traffic accident on public roads and highways. However, when shopping for auto insurance deals in Cicero, drivers should consider more than the bare minimum they need to fulfill. Carrying enough insurance protects drivers from shelling out their own money for potentially high costs they may incur in vehicle accidents.

Illinois Auto Insurance Requirement

The laws of Illinois require vehicle owners to carry liability insurance and uninsured motorist coverage for their registered vehicles. Drivers must always have their car insurance card with them when they are on the road. The minimum coverage includes:

  • $25,000 for injuries or death per person
  • $50,000 total for all injuries or deaths per accident
  • $20,000 for damage to another person’s property
  • $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage

The minimum liability insurance covers medical expenses, property damage, and other incurred costs from people injured or property damaged. Banks and money lenders may require drivers to carry extra auto insurance coverage such as collision, comprehensive, medical, and property damage insurance before they can receive auto loans.

Illinois’ authorities monitor drivers’ car insurance statuses through random verification questionnaires and traffic stop inspections. Drivers must respond to questionnaires with their insurance carrier and policy number, which authorities will use to verify their existing insurance. Traffic enforcers also have the right to ask for proof of insurance randomly during traffic stops.

Drivers found without a minimum insurance policy may face fines ranging from $500 to $1000. Repeated offenses may result in license plate suspension.

Protecting Yourself from Extra Costs

Illinois follows a “fault” system to determine who is financially responsible for the injuries, vehicle damage, and other losses caused by a car accident. In case the costs incurred go beyond the coverage limit, the driver has to shell out his/her own money and pay for the excess.

The Illinois Department of Transportation and the National Safety Council published the 2016 Illinois Crash Facts and Statistics in 2018 and found that the total estimated cost of vehicle crashes in the state was $7.7 billion. Broken down into the various vehicle incidents in 2016:

  • Each fatal crash cost over $1.5 million in damages.
  • Each crash that incapacitates the injured party (i.e., broken limbs, skull injuries) cost the driver around $91,135.
  • Visible but non-incapacitating injuries (i.e., bruises, abrasions) amounted to $26,325 for every accident.
  • Possible but non-evident injuries (i.e. pain, nausea) cost $21,265.
  • Property damages were estimated at $11,540 per incident.

Given these statistics and the legal minimum coverage, basic insurance may not be enough to protect the driver from accident costs. Drivers might not be able to pay for the cost beyond their coverage, and a severe accident might bring them and their household to bankruptcy.

Apart from the costs they have to pay the injured parties, drivers also need to pay for their injuries and properties. Basic liability insurance does not cover the driver’s injuries or property damage. Drivers are unprotected in case the injured party sues for personal injury.

When shopping for auto insurance, drivers in Illinois should look at their options as more than just a legal requirement. They should also look at it as a way to protect themselves and their families from going into debt should they ever cause an accident. Thus, they should find the best policy they can afford that gives them the most financial protection.

Comprehensive auto insurance is affordable with Oxford Auto Insurance. Our teams compare policies of up to 15 providers to give you the best options for your insurance needs. With monthly payments as low as $23, you can have increased liability limits and maximum protection from expensive road accidents.

Call Oxford Auto Insurance at 312-260-9000 today for a free quotation.



How Can Comprehensive Car Insurance Help You?

September 24, 2018

While shopping for a car insurance policy, you might have heard of comprehensive coverage. Some car owners think that obtaining this type of insurance means they won’t have to pay a penny out of pocket when an accident happens. But this kind of misinformation could lead to frustration when you get into an accident and expect your comprehensive insurance policy to cover the damages.

Contrary to its name, comprehensive car insurance doesn’t cover everything. It pays for specific non-collision issues, including theft, floods, fire, animal crashes, weather disturbances, and more.

Obtaining comprehensive auto insurance in Aurora is the best way you can plan for the unexpected and protect the value of your vehicle after an accident happens. Learn more about how the policy works below.

Coverage from Various Sources of Damage

Comprehensive car insurance provides coverage for things that damage to your car — beyond your control. These include:

  • Damage from animals – The policy will cover your vehicle if it suffers extensive damage from an animal. If you swerve on the road to avoid an animal and hit a tree or another car instead, however, collision insurance will cover the damage.
  • Uncontrollable events – Comprehensive car insurance also covers factors, such as glass damage, on windshields and windows. While these events can happen while you’re driving, there’s no way to predict when and where debris on the road could hit your vehicle.
  • Natural disasters – The policy covers damage to your car caused by weather and natural disasters. These include fires, hails, storms, hurricanes, earthquakes, and other falling objects.
  • Individual damage – Individuals may damage your car; a comprehensive policy addresses these damages, as well. This happens as a result of vandalism, theft, terrorism, and other civil disturbances.

What Isn’t Included in the Policy?

Since comprehensive insurance doesn’t cover collisions with other vehicles, it won’t cover you if you get into a, for example, fender bender. For better protection against unforeseen events, insurers recommend getting collision and comprehensive coverage to include both losses.

On a similar vein, the insurance policy does not include medical or legal expenses related to a collision or other events involving your car. This extends to you and your passengers, as well as the driver and passengers of the other vehicle involved in the incident.

Optional Coverage for Enhanced Vehicle Protection

Comprehensive coverage is not part of the state minimum requirement for car insurance. In cases where you have a lease or loan on your vehicle, however, your lender may require you to purchase full insurance coverage for your car, requiring you to take out a comprehensive coverage.

When your car is new and still has value, it makes sense to buy broad insurance coverage for enhanced vehicle protection. But since comprehensive coverage covers different risks, it can also benefit those who own older cars, too. After all, the cost of damage can affect your finances, regardless of whether your vehicle is new or old.

Comprehensive insurance is a smart move for most drivers. Ultimately, obtaining the policy depends on the state of your car and your ability to pay off accidental damage.

Oxford Auto Insurance ensures that you stay financially protected even when you’re on the road.

Contact us today for help in finding an insurance policy that fits your needs.



5 Ways to Find the Best Auto Insurance Company

September 6, 2018

Specific car insurance companies appeal to different types of drivers. Some companies specialize in servicing families while others cater to drivers with less-than-perfect driving records. You can save hundreds of dollars or get additional benefits if you choose to buy insurance from a company that is a good fit for your needs.

As such, comparing car insurance companies in Aurora is just as vital as comparing insurance quotes. Here are a few ways you can effectively shop for the right insurance company:

1. Check Out the Car Insurance Company’s Consumer Track Record

One way to know if an insurance company matches your requirements is to research its consumer track record. Read reviews online to see what the consumers say about its insurance policies and services.

If you’re comparing two or more companies, check their complaint records on the website of the National Association of Insurance Commissioner (NAIC) or your state’s insurance department. You can quickly remove companies with the highest number of complaints from your list. You don’t want to work with an insurance company that doesn’t provide excellent customer service.

2. Compare the Exact Same Coverage

Many car owners commit the mistake of comparing different coverages from two insurance companies. What you should do, instead, is to establish your desired coverage limits before shopping for insurance. And make sure you use those same limits to request a quote from every company you check out. This way, you get to see which company offers the better deal.

3. Inquire About Car Insurance Discounts

Before you begin comparing insurance quotes, make sure you inquire about potential car insurance discounts. Perhaps, you can bundle your home and auto insurance from one company. Or, ask if the company provides low down payment or low monthly rate options. Checking possible savings is a great way to trim down your choices.

Just a quick reminder, though: make sure to use the same desired coverage limits when comparing insurance discounts. This way, you get a clearer view of the possible savings offered by each company and see which discounts are more worthwhile for you.

4. Compare Optional Coverage

Many insurance companies offer optional coverage such as tow truck insurance, which you may need for sudden car breakdowns. So, if one provider offers add-ons that you want at the same price or close to the price of another company’s insurance without the extras, it may be worth choosing the company that offers optional coverage.

5. See If the Company Caters to Your Specific Needs

Having a less-than-perfect credit score or driving record doesn’t mean you don’t have a chance to get a good auto insurance deal. Make sure to work with a company that understands your specific situation and helps you get great, affordable coverage despite that.

Comparing auto insurance companies is easy, once you know what to look for. So, make sure to follow the tips above to make your shopping more efficient and to find the provider that best suits your needs.

If you want further assistance in your search for the auto insurance that’s right for you, we’re here to help. Talk to us today.



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