Things to Always Ask Auto Insurance Agents

The most intuitive experience may not be purchasing insurance. Luckily, the ultimate resource you have while looking for car insurance is an insurance agent!

They are available to respond and assist you and your family so that you can get the coverage you need to secure you. By becoming aware, you will make educated decisions on how to receive the protection you need.

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Asking the right questions will save you money and stress when you get car insurance quotes. When looking for an auto insurance policy, be sure to ask these insurance questions to insurance agents.

Things to Always Ask Auto Insurance Agents
Image Source: Insurance Information Institute

 

Am I Getting All the Auto Discounts I Can?

Many auto insurance firms are providing hundreds of different discounts. But, until you volunteer any details or ask detailed questions from your agent, you may never learn if you are qualified for such discounts or not.

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Let’s say you have other safety equipment, such as airbags; it is normal for discounts to apply. There are also usually discounts that are considered to bring a lower risk than average for good students, as well as those in certain professions.

The only way you’ll know if you’re eligible for any of the discounts you’re entitled to is to review the complete list. Bundle several plans – namely homeowners and cars – with one insurer for large savings. Companies call this a multiline discount.

How Much Coverage Should I Get?

If it comes to having the right amount of coverage to match your needs, a car insurance agent is a great resource. Every state has its own set of requirements for auto insurance, and most, like Florida, are mandating auto liability insurance cover.

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Certain auto coverage types to discuss with your agent include the following.

  • Comprehensive Coverage – covers non-accident related damage such as vandalism and theft.
  • Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Protection – covers repairs to your car, should an uninsured or underinsured motorist hit you.
  • Collision Coverage – covers repairs to your vehicle no matter who was at fault.

It’s a good idea to stay up-to-date on the worth of your car and check-in with your agent regularly to reassess your coverage needs.

Who Is Covered Under My Policy?

When you have others in your family, then you want to make sure that they are also protected. Whether your kids or partner intend on driving, then the insurance will protect them.

Sometimes, putting the family on one policy is cheaper, rather than getting several auto insurance plans.

However, if your children have moved out or no longer have to be on your policy, then ask your agent about that, as well. You don’t want to skimp on coverage, yet you don’t want to overpay, either.

If My Car Is Totaled, How Much Will My Insurance Pay to Cover the Loss?

There is a big difference that you ought to make when negotiating claims with your auto insurance agent: will you receive the actual cash value or the agreed-upon amount?

Actual cash value is the money the vehicle is worth at the time of the accident, provided a depreciated value. However, the agreed-upon value is the fully negotiated insured sum without any depreciation.

After a wreck, the last thing you want is to end up with a claim check worth thousands less than you thought. So, be sure to know the details.

If I Need New Parts for My Car, Will My Insurer Pay for Original Manufacturer Parts?

Some insurance firms offer “original equipment manufacturer” (OEM) parts, while some will only pay for “aftermarket parts,” says Mary Paquette, vice president of private client service at Chartwell Insurance Services in Chicago.

As the names indicate, OEM parts are the ones made by your vehicle’s manufacturer. “Aftermarket parts” are usually less costly and manufactured by another (commonly foreign) supplier.

Bottom Line

If you have questions about auto insurance or are uncertain, ask your agent. They are there to guide you to have the best possible coverage for your particular case.

Everybody is different, and you need to ask the right things in order to get the right coverage.