Choosing the Right Auto Insurance Policy

Finding the right auto insurance to suit your needs can be an arduous undertaking. With a myriad of policies to choose from, it is hard to know which one will bring the best value at the lowest price. Although there are no standard guidelines to proper insurance coverage, a thorough understanding of your policy choices and state requirements can help you on your way.

“A quality auto insurance policy is the best mode of ensuring that you and your assets are safeguarded in the event of a motor vehicle accident,” said Marianne McInerney, AIADA president. “Whether seeking coverage for damage or theft, medical expenses, liability for others, or all of the above, it is crucial that you select the policy most appropriate for your driving needs.”

Here are the six most common forms of auto insurance coverage as outlined by the Insurance Information Institute (III): bodily injury liability, medical payments or personal injury protection (PIP), property damage liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured or underinsured motorist. While most states require vehicle owners to purchase bodily injury and property damage liability, others including, Wisconsin and Tennessee, mandate only that drivers show proof of financial responsibility. Click here for more information on your state’s requirements.

Here's a brief guideline to consider when looking for auto insurance:

• Shop around
• Be aware of your driving record and credit score
• Understand the different policy options: required vs. optional
• Research each company’s service history
• Find out what, if any, discounts are owed you

Generally, the quote you receive is a function of several different factors including, your age, driving record, credit score, where you live, and the kind of car you drive, among other things. But not all auto insurers weigh these characteristics in the same manner, and so it is good to seek out pricing from several companies.

“Because rates, terms and quality of service can differ widely from one company to the next, comparison shopping is paramount,” McInerney said. “The Internet is a particularly attractive research tool, opening up opportunities for consumers to tailor-make their policies and obtain multiple quotes without the hassle of dealing with on-site agents.” But McInerney advised customers to be wary of deals that appear too good to be true.

“To get a real feel for an insurer’s reliability and timeliness in handling claims, visit the service center at your local auto dealership,” she said. “Because most auto service technicians interact with insurance companies on a regular basis, they are generally well-informed as to which companies have the smoothest claims processes.”

(Source: American International Automobile Dealers Association)