Monday, December 10, 2007

Cheap Insurance Van

Danny Wirken

The word shopping brings a feeling of immediate excitement to most people. But if you combine the word shopping with car insurance, as in "shopping for car insurance", it produces the opposite effect. The thought of shopping for auto insurance makes the eyes glaze over and the heart rate drop to the pace of a slumbering couch potato.

Couch potato? Indeed. Doug Heller, a consumer advocate at the Foundation for Consumer Rights and a recognized insurance issues specialist, told us that too often "people purchase insurance by calling the number on the screen."

But wait, this is important stuff! You want to be adequately covered if you get in an accident. And you certainly don't want to pay more for car insurance than you should. Maybe waiting for a solution to be beamed into your living room is not the best idea.

How can you stay awake while navigating through this murky subject? Just remember: There is money to be saved. How much? Hundreds, even thousands, per year. For example, one of the authors typed all of his insurance information into a comparative insurance service. The quotes (for very basic coverage on two old cars) ranged from $1,006 to $1,807 - a difference of $801 a year. If you're currently dumping thousands into your insurance company's coffers because of a couple of tickets, an accident or a questionable credit rating, shopping your policy against others may be well worth the effort.

Look at it this way - you can convert the money you save into the purchase of something you've lusted after for a long time. Hold that goal in your mind. Now, let's begin.

Before you can shop for something, you have to decide what you need. The first step in finding the right auto insurance for you is to figure out the amount of coverage you need. This varies from country to country. So take a moment to find out what coverage is required where you live. Make a list of the different types of coverage and then return for the next step.

Now that you know what is required, you can decide what - if anything - you need in addition to that. Some people are quite cautious. They base their lives on worst-case scenarios. Insurance companies love these people. That's because insurance companies know what your chances are of being killed or maimed, and how likely it is for your car to be damaged or stolen. The information the insurance company has collected over previous decades is crunched into "actuarial tables" that give insurance adjustors a quick look at the probability of just about any occurrence.

It is important to keep in mind that the basis of insurance is a difference of opinion between you (the insured) and them (the insurance company). You believe you will, at some point, probably get in an auto accident. The car insurance company believes you probably won't. And the insurance company is willing to take your money to prove you wrong.

So how much auto insurance should you buy beyond your state's minimums?

"Look at your personal financial situation," Dennis Howard, director of the Insurance Consumer Advocate Network and former insurance adjuster. "If you have assets to protect - and that is all insurance is doing - get enough liability coverage."

Another issue Howard mentioned is that the limits of any uninsured and/or underinsured motorist coverage that you purchase cannot exceed the limits of your liability coverage. Such coverage, he said, can be valuable, as it will cover lost income if you're out of work for several months after being injured in a major accident.

Your driving habits may also be a consideration. If your past is filled with crumpled fenders, if you have a lead foot or a long commute on a treacherous winding road, then you should get more comprehensive coverage.

"Consumers should also be aware that they don't have to buy the package [of collision and comprehensive coverage]," Howard said. "If your vehicle is older, if you have a good driving record and if there is a low likelihood that it would be totaled in an accident, but a high likelihood of it being stolen, you could buy comprehensive but not collision." Seems like good advice for all of the 1989 Toyota Camry owners reading this article - this has been the most stolen car in the nation for several years (it's often stolen for parts). But we would expect that most of them on the road have well over 100,000 miles.

At this time, a rather sobering point needs to be interjected. Just having car insurance doesn't protect you from absolutely anything bad that might happen. First, the insurance company needs to back up the claims that they make in the fine details of the contract. TV ads show folksy adjustors at the scenes of natural disasters passing out claims checks like coupons for cocktail wieners at a supermarket. But, in case you haven't noticed, real life is a bit different from TV ads. If you have an accident, your car insurance company will take a close look at your claim before mailing you a check. And the check may be written for an amount much smaller than you had hoped. For this reason, you should be intimately familiar with the terms of your policy and call the company with any questions you might have.

Now that you have made several practical and philosophical decisions, it's time to start shopping. Begin by setting aside about an hour for this task. Bring all your records - your current insurance policy, your driver license number and your vehicle registration. Drink plenty of coffee. Have a phone at your elbow. And, of course, power up your computer.

Begin with the online services. On many sites you can type in your information and get a list of comparative quotes. The form takes about 15 minutes to complete. If this bores you, just remind yourself that you are saving money and you can use that money to buy something nice for yourself. If the entire shopping process takes you two hours to complete, and you save $800, you're effectively earning $400 an hour. While you're researching companies, make notes in a separate computer file or on a piece of paper divided into categories. This will keep you from duplicating your efforts.

Monday, November 19, 2007

Rental Car Insurance - Do You Need It?

Michael Russell

First of all, most U.S. drivers already carry auto insurance which will provide full or partial protection while driving a rental car (within certain dollar limits and coverage only for rentals within the United States and, sometimes, Canada). Some insurance policies only cover cars rented while your own car is being repaired, while most do not cover certain types of vehicles, like luxury cars or vans. Check your own personal policy for these limitations and exclusions.

Even with these limitations, your personal auto insurance will be the primary source of coverage if you have an accident or suffer injury while driving a rental car. Other types of coverage, such as credit card policies and the rental company's optional insurance offered at the time of the booking, will be subrogated. This means it will not apply until you have reached the maximum of your own auto insurance coverage. Also, be aware that your personal auto insurance rates may increase if you file a claim for damaging a rental car.

Some states have legislature in place requiring rental companies to inform you that their insurance coverage may duplicate your personal auto policy, though these laws do not specify how you must be notified. The best way for you to do is to talk directly with your auto insurance agent before you rent a car and ask the following questions.

What geographical area does my policy offer rental coverage in? (Generally speaking, auto policies cover the U.S. and Canada only.)

How much liability coverage do I currently have? (If you own an older car, for example, you may carry only the minimum amount of liability coverage that is required by the laws of your state, a level that may be insufficient to protect you against the risk of completely replacing a brand-new rental vehicle or, potentially even worse, paying an excessive personal injury claim.

How much is my deductible? (Are you willing to pay that amount out of pocket if you have to file a claim for damaging a rental car?)

Does my policy cover only the value of the vehicle(s) listed on my policy? (If so, you should compare that value to the replacement cost of the type of car you will be renting.)

Does my policy cover theft and collision damage? (Most U.S. drivers already carry collision coverage that can replace the protection sold by rental car companies.)

In the end, the decision of whether or not to purchase optional extra insurance from a car rental company is yours, of course. Consider well the value of the insurance against the cost and bear in mind the above information and make the decision with all the facts.

Wednesday, November 7, 2007

Is the Cost of Automobile Insurance Breaking You?

Stacey Zimmerman

Follow These Tips To Lower Your Rates

When it comes to automobile insurance, many of us get frustrated. In most states, it is required by law to have it and the prices for it can be astronomical. The fact is automobile insurance does not have to be. The following are ways that you may be able to lower your rates.

One of the most important things you can do to lower your rates is to shop around. Make certain you get at least three different price quotes and you'll even be able to access this type of information by using the Internet. Prices of automobile insurance vary from one company to the next, so you'll want to ask others you know where they get their insurance from. It will pay to compare prices on the same coverage.

Another way to lower the cost of your automobile insurance is to ask for a higher deductible. The fact is if you increase your deductible by even $400, you can reduce your coverage by up to 30 percent. However, if you do raise your deductible, you'll want to make sure that you would be able to pay it if there was a claim.

Make sure you check with your insurer to find out if they offer any discounts. Many will offer discounts for having a higher deductible, more than one vehicle on the automobile insurance, having a clean driving record for so many years, taking a defensive driving course, and even having low annual mileage. Many will offer a discount if you work within a certain amount of miles from your home. The fact is there may be many discounts that would apply to you but are not given to you since you didn't ask.

You may also find lower rates by not having multiple drivers on your policy. If you are the only one to drive your car, there is no reason to have all people in the household on it. You may also be able to lower your rates by letting them know the exact value of your vehicle. The fact is many of us think are cars are worth more than they actually are. If you bought your vehicle four years ago, obviously the value of the car has gone down considerable. Don't overpay on your vehicle if you do not have to.

If you have several types of insurance, such as homeowner's insurance and life insurance, you may be entitled to a discount by getting all your insurance needs through one insurance company. Many may offer reduced rates for this, but it is still important to shop around multi-policy rates.

Many of us are paying a lot more than we should have to for automobile insurance. Keeping your driving record clean is, of course, a must to keep your rates lowered. You'll find many of us could have much lower rates if we simply price compared and asked about what discounts may be available to us. Don't pay too much for your automobile insurance. Start your price comparing today!

Copyright 2006 Stacey Zimmerman

Monday, November 5, 2007

Budget Car Insurance Car Insurance Buying Tips

Gavin Bloom

Car insurance is an integral part of the insurance budget. There are a lot of variables that cause the rates to increase or decrease. Some of these variables cannot be controlled by the insured but there are some things the insurance buyer can do to keep their policy reasonable without losing a lot in protection.

What Are Your Assets? - Do you own a home? Do you have several vehicles? Do you own a business? Do you rent an apartment? Your strength in assets is a factor when selecting your liability limits. If you accidentally injure or kill someone in an automobile accident and you carry low liability limits on your car policy then your assets are next in line to be used to pay for the damages.

The Age of the Vehicles - Newer vehicles usually require physical damage coverage by the lender. Older vehicles with a lot of miles sometimes do not warrant physical damage. Physical damage rates can be adjusted up or down based on the deductible you choose.

The Age of The Drivers - Adult rates, senior adult rates, and rates for young drivers make a huge difference in the overall rate. Young drivers on vehicles with physical damage coverage can be very costly.

What are the Discounts? - There are a number of discounts on car policies. The multi-policy discount is given by insurance companies for purchasing both auto and home insurance. Retirement discounts are available to the senior adult. Young drivers receive discounts for drivers training education. Some companies give good student discounts for young student drivers that maintain a 3.0 grade point average.

Full Tort or Limited Tort - Many states have a discount for selecting a limited tort option. Tort is your right to sue for pain and suffering damages over and above the basic liability settlement. This varies from state to state.

This is the overall picture what insurance companies use to determine your individual rate. You have a choice when it comes to liability, physical damage, and tort options. Ask plenty of questions about these three areas when purchasing car insurance.

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Comparing Auto Insurance Quotes Online

Justin Brown

Auto insurance refers to the insurance which is used for insuring the automobiles against any kind of uncertain accidents that may cause damages to the vehicle. The main purpose that the insurance serves is to give protection against the losses incurred due to accidents. Auto insurance is a type of insurance that consumers must buy to protect the life span of their vehicles and also for any kind of damages that the vehicle may suffer in an accident. Auto insurance is used to insure many automobiles such as cars, trucks and any other kind of vehicles that may need it. Different kinds of coverage are available under these insurance schemes such as Third-Party Foreign Theft and Fully Comprehensive insurance, to suit the interest and the needs of the insured.

Before buying auto insurance, it is very important that the person requiring insurance analyses the companies that provide vehicle insurance quotes. Different companies offer different quotes for the insurance of the vehicle, so the consumer must look out for the best one, which suits his needs and which proves to be highly economical. Many companies also give different discount schemes to attract more and more consumers. The consumer can save a good deal of money while purchasing auto insurance by comparing the quotes of different companies and choosing the cheapest one which satisfies all needs.

Comparing the quotes of different companies on the internet for buying insurance provides a wider platform to the consumer, where they can compare quotes from several companies and choose one among them. The main thing about choosing a quote is that the quote need not necessarily be cheap but the company must be an established one which the customer can rely on should they have an accident.

The consumer should not only compare the quotes of different companies but also the company's reputation and their way of service. While comparing, the consumer is more acquainted with the different kind of coverage that are available and can choose among them according to the needs. Buying insurance online is the most popular way of buying insurance because it is really fast and convenient, which suits to the busy life of people who have little time to phone around the various companies to relay the details of the insurance cover they are after over and over again. And the best part is that it is free of cost, i.e. no cost is involved in gathering the quotes online from different companies.

Auto insurances are needed because of the reckless accidents that happen on our roads day after day. These can only be reduced once the certainty of the accidents is reduced. The companies quote their prices for insuring depending upon various factors like the age of person to whom the vehicle belongs, the location where the car is bought and supposedly to be used and also many other factors like whether the driver already has points on their licence. The details regarding the car, like where it is being parked, whether or not it is kept in a garage (which is supposed to have less risk of being stolen) and also the mileage of the car are also deciding factors. If the car travels less than a specific limit of miles then such cars are likely to receive some kind of mileage discounts.

Monday, October 29, 2007

Affordable Car Insurance What To Do To Keep The Rates Down

Gavin Bloom

Automobile insurance is one of those things in the budget that is always going to be there. There are very few places in America that permit you to drive vehicles without insurance and so it behooves each and every one of us to get a better handle on our own auto insurance coverage. The industry is changing a bit because the competition is strong. There are new and creative auto policies on the market today. The trend that has gained the most momentum is the self-insuring concept. Higher deductibles is the weapon that the customer can use to lower rates significantly. Higher deductibles means that the policyholder has decided to take on more of the risk for the automobiles insured. The day of low collision deductibles is all but gone. Lower deductibles no longer warrant the high premiums. There is too much money to be saved with higher deductibles.

Lowering the Rates for Young Drivers

Young drivers on newer vehicles that have a lien holder's interest will raise the auto rate significantly. The collision and comprehensive rates for drivers under 21 years of age are very high. A young driver on an older vehicle without the collision and comprehensive coverage will lower the rate significantly. There are discounts for young drivers who have completed a qualified drivers training course. Some companies have good student discounts on students with a grade point average of 3.0 or better. When the young driver reaches 21 the rates begin to drop for most companies.

Senior Citizen Discounts - Most companies have discounts for people age 55 and older who are retired or work less than 20 hours a week. There are mature driving courses that can also give the senior citizen a discount.

Multi-Policy Discount - This discount is available when you insure both your auto and home with the same insurance company.

Tort Options - Some companies offer discounts for a limited tort option. Tort is your ability to sue for pain and suffering. Limited tort rates in some states reduce the overall premium of the policy up to 30%. Ask your insurance company about the tort options in your state.

Sunday, October 28, 2007

Your Car Needs Auto Insurance

Stacey Wilson

Auto insurance is insurance that consumers and automobile owners purchase. It also goes by other names - vehicle insurance, car insurance, and motor insurance. This type of insurance primarily is used to provide protection against losses that a vehicle incurs because of traffic accidents, crashes, and mishaps.

Most companies that offer auto insurance have various types and scopes of ranges for their policies. In fact, auto insurance can actually cover the insured party, the insured vehicle, and third parties. However, not all companies offer such deals.

If you are wishing to purchase auto insurance for your vehicle, you can always do so. You can browse through the Internet or ask around for companies that offer good car insurance coverage. You see, most insurance companies actually provide discounts for good car grades. To know if you are qualified, you can ask the company. Also, there are some insurance companies that also give discounts for people who are taking their driver's training program or other driver education programs. If you would like to take advantage of this promo, you can have a new teenage driver be the primary driver or the family driver since you could get lower rates.

Remember that various types of vehicles have also different auto insurance rates and quotes. You can check with insurance companies regarding their rates. You see, sports cars and other expensive cars have higher rates. Also, it is important that you know the crash safety rating for your vehicle. If your vehicle has a good and satisfactory rating, chances are that you would be getting lower insurance rates.

There are some bases for a car insurance premium charges. Aside from those previously mentioned like crash safety ratings, and the driver taking car and traffic education lessons, other criteria that insurance companies include in their computations are gender, the distance that the vehicle usually covers, and the color of your car.

Keep in mind that if you constantly keep you vehicle in good shape, chances are that you would be getting a much lower insurance rate. You can get new auto parts for your vehicle at Auto Parts Fast. It has top of the line Ford Truck parts and other vehicle parts. The company boasts of an impressive array of performance parts, and accessories that will surely help your vehicle perform well.

Saturday, October 27, 2007

Finding Cheap Online Auto Insurance

Florence Gale

Automobile car insurance is something that we all need and should command careful consideration. When in the market for auto insurance coverage, and with so many car insurance companies to choose from, it can be a bit confusing when trying to decide on the best and most affordable coverage for your vehicle. With the convenience of the internet, finding all the information required to get the best deals and rates can easily be accomplished online.

Finding a reputable auto car insurance company is a job within itself, and like buying a home, it is imperative you clearly understand what you are getting. When in search of cheaper car insurance rates you should take into account all the factors that can affect your car insurance premiums. So before you sign on the dotted line, read the fine print of Automobile Insurance Policy to insure you are getting the necessary coverage to protect yourself. It happens time and time again, when the car owner gets into an accident or fender bender, the coverage they thought they were paying for is not part of their policy which can lead to out-of-pocket expenses.

Get several car insurance quotes

Some key factors when shopping for cheap car insurance is to first make sure you get at least three or four quotes since the price you pay for your car insurance can vary by hundreds of dollars. Finding cheaper insurance rates depends on your previous driving records, to include any type of infraction such as speeding, seat belt and auto accidents. Age, gender and the type of car you are seeking auto insurance coverage on including the age of the vehicle, will clearly be critical factors in determining your annual car premiums.

It is equally important to find a car insurance company that can answer any questions you may have and how quickly they handle claims fairly and efficiently. Once you decide on a quote you are satisfied with, before agreeing to anything check with your state insurance department about the company's history. Finding out the financial well-being of an insurable institution and the number ratio of consumer complaints, could avoid headaches or any future regrets.

Learn the facts about car insurance

Some other ways of saving money is to ask your insurance broker or agent for a higher deductible. The deductive is the amount of money you pay before the insurance company pays out on your claim. The purpose of requesting a higher deductible can lower your auto rates substantially. When you increase the deductible from $500 to $1,000 you can potentially save you over 40% on your car insurance rates simply because the insurance company will pay out less for your claim. However, if you know that you can not pay out the higher deductible should something happen to your car in the instance of an accident, and then it is best to remain at a lower deductible.

When figuring out the appropriate insurance coverage for your car, take into account the age of the car. This could also influence your auto premium, for example you may want to consider excluding the collision or comprehensive coverage on an older car. It is not cost saving to yourself when you continue to pay full coverage on a car worth less than amount you pay for your insurance coverage. If the car has a market value of $2,000 or less, you would not want to pay more in premiums since you will never get back what you are paying out.

You can easily find out the current market value of your car in order to find out what coverage you will require from a number of valued sources such as banks, auto dealerships, or go online and use the search term, "finding the value of your vehicle". You can find several reputable services such as, www.kbb.com or www.nadaguides.com where all you have to do is type in the applicable information about your car and instantly you will have the market value. As the saying goes, an educated consumer is a smart consumer, the more you understand prior to purchasing auto insurance, you will be able to make an informed and valued decision.

Friday, October 26, 2007

Low Cost Car Insurance - Where To Cut Costs

Gavin Bloom

Car Insurance can be simplified once you begin to understand the declarations page. The declarations page is issued every time your car policy renews. The information on your renewal declarations page will give you all you need to know about how your policy is rated. The actual policy is very complicated because it is written in legal language. The declarations page is a synopsis of your protection and is divided into sections.

Section I - Liability - This section indicates the bodily injury and property damage liability limits. This section of coverage protects you in the event that you are found liable in an automobile accident. Most car insurance policies have split limits. 100/300/50 is a common split limit. The first two limits are the bodily injury limits. The 100,000 refers to the amount per person bodily injury liability limit and 300,000 is the amount per accident limit. The third limit is the property damage liability limit of 50,000.

Tort Option - Some states have a tort option. Full tort gives you an expanded right to sue for pain and suffering. Limited Tort limits that right and also reduces your overall premium.

Section II - Physical Damage - This section is all about the physical damage to your automobiles. It is divided into two basic benefits. Collision insurance covers damage to your vehicle in an automobile accident. Comprehensive insurance covers your vehicle for theft, hitting an animal, glass coverage, fire, and several other miscellaneous occurrences.

Section III - First Part Benefits - This section applies to the first party insured and all resident relatives. This can vary from state to state. Medical expense, income loss, and life insurance are examples of first party benefits.

Cost Savings - Your greatest risk for financial loss is when you are liable in a car accident and so it is not wise to carry low limits for liability. Higher deductibles for collision and comprehensive are an excellent way to reduce costs. Make sure that your home policy is with the same company in order to qualify for the multiple policy discounts. The limited tort option can save you up to 20%. The tort discount is only available in some states.

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Why guys pay more for car insurance

Car Insurance Policy What To Know About Car Insurance Before You Shop

Gavin Bloom

The car insurance policy has a lot of legal language that most of us do not begin to understand. The essential parts of the car policy are found in the declarations page that you receive when your policy renews. Car insurers are always competing for each other's policyholders. Every car insurance company uses actuaries and underwriters to help determine the rates.

Rating Territory - Whether you like it or not, your neighbors and friends in your community help determine the rates in your area. These areas are called rating territories by the insurance companies. If there are high losses and frequency in your area then your rates are going to be higher. The opposite is also true.

Liability Insurance - Liability insurance protects you when you are liable in an automobile accident. This is valuable protection for you because this is the portion of the possible that insures you against the highest risk and financial loss. Liability claims because of death and injury are by far the largest. Don't cut yourself short in this area.

Physical Damage Insurance - This portion of the car insurance policy pertains to your vehicles. It is a good idea to self-insure in this area by purchasing this coverage with high deductibles. Low deductibles no longer warrant the high premiums for the protection afforded. High deductibles will save you thousands of dollars over the life time of a policy.

Car Insurance Discounts - There a number of discounts in car insurance, Vehicles with air bags, seat belts, anti-lock brakes, and anti-theft devices all have discounts. Senior drivers can receive retirement discounts. Young drivers with driver training education receive discounts. Some companies give good student discounts for the young driver with a 3.0 grade point average.

It's also important to have certain information available when shopping for car insurance. The vehicle identification number for all vehicles, the driver's license number for all drivers, and your current insurance information will make your shopping easier.

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Cheap Car Insurance For Teens How To Keep The Rates Down

Gavin Bloom

The teenager shopping for car insurance is at a decided disadvantage. Car insurance rates are based on age and driving experience as well as driving record. The best way for teenage drivers to work their way into better rates is stay on their parents policy in order to gain driving experience and a driving record. There is a good chance that after three years and a clean driving record that a preferred policy from the parent's insurance company can then be issued on the teen drivers that want to have their own car and pay for their own insurance. There are numerous discounts for the young driver today. Drivers training education is the most common discount. The drivers training course normally consist of 30 hours of driving with an authorized instructor along with 6 hours of classroom work. Some companies give discounts for good students that carry a 3.0 grade point average in high school or college. There is also a resident student discount available by some insurance companies. The student has to live over 100 miles away from home to receive this discount.

Age Rating Tiers - Most insurance companies have age rating tiers on young drivers. The ages from 16 to 21 is one tier and the rates are the highest in this time period. The next age tier begins at age 21 and ends at age 25. The rates drop significantly at age 21 and again at age 25.

Vehicles Make a Difference - The younger the driver the higher the rate. The rates are very high for young drivers on newer vehicles that require collision and comprehensive coverage. Older vehicles that only require liability coverage as a minimum state requirement is one way to cut costs for the teen driver. Utility vehicles like pick-up trucks receive a small discount and the teen driver can take advantage of that discount also. The teen driver needs to stay away from high performance vehicles and sports cars because the rates will be very high and these cars may not qualify for standard car insurance.

Monday, October 22, 2007

Free Online Car Insurance Quote Make It Easy By Being Prepared

Gavin Bloom

You can shop all day and night online for car insurance or you can be prepared and save time. Online car insurance quotes are as complete and accurate as the information that you provide. The best way to shop online is by giving the insurance company the detailed info that they need to give you the best possible rate.

The Vehicle Identification Number - You must enter this number online to receive the proper rate. The Vehicle identification number on a vehicle will indicate the safety features on your automobile and that will give you discounts. Air bags, seat belts, and anti-lock breaks are valuable discounts. Rates are higher without these discounts. Have your vehicle identification number available.

Drivers License Number - You are going to have your driving record investigated sooner or later and so you might as well get it done at the beginning so that you will have an accurate rate based on your driving record.

Prior Insurance - If you are comparison shopping then you will need to have your prior insurance policy available. Prior insurance discounts are huge but you have to prove that you have a policy by entering your present insurance company effective date and policy number.

Usage - it is important that you have a good understanding on how you use your vehicles. How far one way to work? Is your car used for pleasure? How many miles per year do you drive on each vehicle?

Discount Tips - Insurance companies will give discounts for a variety of reasons. There are retirement discounts for seniors. Young drivers receive discounts for drivers training education as well as good student discounts by some companies. Multi-policy discounts when both auto and home insurance are with the same company.

Online shopping is so much easier when you have all this information available. Be prepared and you will save valuable time and money.

Sunday, October 21, 2007

Why Sports Cars Cost More To Insure

Joseph Kenny

Have you ever wondered why sports cars cost more to insure than other types of car - even when the purchase price of the sports car is less expensive? If so, the following are the main reasons why this is the case.

Car Insurance Group Categories

While many of the factors that determine the make-up of car insurance quotes are not known, what is known is that insurance companies 'group' certain types of cars into categories. For this purposes, insurance companies have groups ranging from 1 through to 20. Group 1 is the least expensive type of car to insure. Group 20 is the most expensive type of car to insure. So, if you buy a Fiat Panda, you'll be classed a Group 1 car driver. Buy a sports car, any sports car, and you are looking at being classed a Group 15 and above driver. Buy a performance sports car, such as a Porsche 911, and you'll definitely be Group 20 driver!

Theft

Over 2 million car crimes happen in the UK each and every year. Aside from popular model cars, such a Ford, the biggest car crime category is sports cars! Have a soft-top convertible sports car, and the chances of it being stolen are red hot! So, even if you live out in the countryside with no one else around for miles, you will still be seen as driving an extremely high risk car when it comes to car theft. With increased risk, comes an increased premium!

Accidents

Insurance companies are not charities - they're in the business to make money. As such, they keep vast amounts of data and part of that data tells them that if you drive a sports car there is an increased risk you'll be in an accident and that the accident will be more serious (and costly) than if you were driving a regular car. As such, the premium charge is going to be higher.

Under 30?

Unless you have just won the Lottery, if you are under 30 there are no appealing factors when it comes to insuring a sports car. Not only do the insurance company see the car you drive as being a high risk car to insure, but you as the driver are far more risky to insure as well. Consequently, car insurance premiums for those 30 years of age or under, driving sports cars, is probably the highest of all types of car insurance available in the UK today.

Saturday, October 20, 2007

Car Insurance: Premiums Driven Down By The Internet

Car Insurance: Premiums Driven Down By The Internet - Article Search Engine Directory   FinanceNook.com
Your One-Stop Quality Finance Article Source   Submit Your Articles On Auto-Pilot Automatically submit your articles to thousands of publishers - save time, and get massive publicity for your website! CLICK HERE! Car Insurance: Premiums Driven Down By The Internet

Authored By: Michael Challiner

After so many experts have warned us that the cost of car insurance is on the rise, what's happened? It's fallen! It's mostly down to the growing impact of shopping online.

In the second half of 2005 the average car insurance premium fell from £470.17 to £462.15. But it's the silver surfers who've benefited most. During the last six months of last year, drivers over the age of 65 have seen their average premium fall by 4.5% from £342 to £347. What is most surprising are the huge differences in premiums between providers. Differences of 40% between the most expensive and the cheapest are common.

It seems that most motorists are not aware of this as every year, half of them automatically renew their insurance with their existing insurer. A further 19% only bother to get one competitive quotation.

And readers will be surprised who sells the expensive policies. A recent survey in "Which", the consumer magazine, shows that Norwich Union - the UK's biggest insurer - failed to come top in any of the 36 driver categories surveyed. Direct Line, another well-known name, only managed one top spot.

This is down to the marketing strategies of the big brand names. They have been building up their client base with low prices and heavy advertising and then gradually increase prices. They are clearly relying on apathy and brand loyalty to keep their clients. And with 50% automatically renewing, it works!

But if you decide to shop around, be careful. A low price isn't everything. Some policies have mouth-wateringly low prices but skimp elsewhere.

For example, when your car is being repaired, do you want a courtesy car? Some policies only pay £100 or so for stolen audio equipment. Is that enough? Do you want to insure your personal belongings whilst they're in your car? And crucially, some comprehensive policies won't provide third party cover if you to drive another person's car - even with their permission!

Before you decide, it's wise to consider all these aspects.

But going back to price, if you think prices are cheapest on the Internet, you're right! Internet quotations are normally 5% - 10% cheaper than telephone quotes.

When Internet shopping, most people look for the cheapest quote and then read the details about the cheapest policy to check out that they provide the cover that's needed. You can hunt for the best deals by searching under "car insurance" but some of the discount insurance sites are more easily found if you type in "discount car insurance" or "cheap car insurance".

But please remember, when renewal time comes around go shopping again. Don't automatically renew! It's so easy on the Internet as I found this year. My previous insurer quoted me £945 and I eventually bought it for £702. A saving of £243 for 30 minutes work.

Brokers Online are a uk finance site who specialise in Car Insurance and Cheap Life Insurance

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Read Additional Related Articles from the Auto Insurance Category
Listed below are more articles related to the above article.

People interested in the above article "Car Insurance: Premiums Driven Down By The Internet" are also interested in the relatedarticles listed below: What Goes Into Determining My Auto Premium? - By : Jessica Farrell
Online Car Insurance - By : Robert Lawrence
Does Your Car Insurance Cover Everything Important? - By : Pamela Hewitt
Why Sports Cars Cost More To Insure - By : Joseph Kenny
Car Insurance Policy - What To Know About Car Insurance Before You Shop - By : Gavin Bloom
Cheap Car Insurance For Teens - How To Keep The Rates Down - By : Gavin Bloom
Free Online Car Insurance Quote - Make It Easy By Being Prepared - By : Gavin Bloom
Low Cost Car Insurance - Where To Cut Costs - By : Gavin Bloom
Your Car Needs Auto Insurance - By : Stacey Wilson
Finding Cheap Online Auto Insurance - By : Florence Gale

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Thursday, October 18, 2007

Does Your Car Insurance Cover Everything Important?

Pamela Hewitt

It is important that you do take good care of your car. After all, possibly like most people, it would be one of the most expensive investments you might ever have spent on. To protect you and your car as well for any other excess expenses due to accidents or other untoward incidents, vehicle insurance could do just the trick. However, keep in mind that to actually purchase insurance for your car would also mean that you would have to spend a considerable amount.

Vehicle insurance, or car insurance or auto insurance or whatever term you may want to call it, is mainly used to provide protection against losses that could be incurred as a result of being part of traffic accidents. You see, accidents could lead to huge damages which equate to huge expenses as well. Vehicle insurance covers that so that you would not have to shell out any more money. In fact, there are even some insurance companies whose coverage includes you, your car, and even other parties included in the accident.

Of course, you should try choosing the right kind of auto insurance for your car. Remember that the wider and the greater the range of coverage also means that you would have to spend more. If you have a limited amount of finances, you can try to simply ask around and inquire about auto insurance quotes. Also inquire about the areas covered. Try to find out also if you have the option to include or not to include certain areas.

Bodily injury liability insurance covers the other party's medical bills if you actually hurt someone in an accident that was purely your fault. If you have property damage liability as part of your auto insurance, you would not have to worry much if you drive your car into another car or into a streetlight or bus stop.

What Goes Into Determining My Auto Premium?

Jessica Farrell

Insurance companies consider many factors before they provide you with an auto insurance quote. Here is some of the basic information that goes into compiling your auto quote:

Age: Insurance companies like older more experienced drivers. According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), 16 to 19 years olds are four times more likely than older drivers to be involved in a car crash. Premiums tend to decrease as the young driver ages.

Type of Car: Brand new, expensive, fast cars are more expensive to insure than older, slower cars. Check to see if the car you're interested in insuring is a high risk car, meaning that it is often stolen or vandalized. For instance, in 2004, the 1995 Honda Civic was the most stolen car in the US according to a report released in November 2005 by the National Insurance Crime Bureau. Discuss this with your insurance agent before you select a car. The cost of insuring it might determine how much car you can afford.

Driving Record: Clean driving record is important to getting a lower rate. If you do have a violation, attend a driver's education class. This may help to reduce your rate. Some insurance companies will not insure drivers with very poor driving records.

Credit Score: Yes, that's right. Credit score. Your credit score is also used when securing insurance. It is called an insurance score. Studies indicate that the way a person manages their finances is a good predictor of the potential for insurance claims, therefore they charge a premium in accordance with the risk they are assuming. According to statistics, people with lower insurance scores are more likely to file claims.

Deductibles: The higher the deductible, the more you save in premium. Go as high as you can afford.

Underwriting guidelines vary slightly from company to company, so get more than one automobile quote and compare.

Online Car Insurance

Robert Lawrence

Car Insurance Quotes

Buying car insurance can be a real hassle, taking up most of a day while you call different companies to get quotes and wait to hear back. Everyone advertises that they are the best and they give the best deals - but the same can't be true for all of them. And you know that you want to get the most for your money. If you're a serious bargain shopper, it might take you a long time before you can narrow the field when it comes to car insurance. However, real bargain shoppers know that the Internet is their best bet for a great deal - on virtually anything. When you get your quotes online, the whole process is much quicker and easier. And the best part of all is, no automated voices telling you to press 1...or 2...or 3...

Ah, the Ease of Online Buying

Because it's so much easier, a lot of people feel more comfortable buying car insurance online, in a click-and-point process that doesn't involve sitting through ten minutes of automated questions and answers. The options and companies are endless even in a strictly online environment. The casual consumer might search through web sites and read quotes for hours, and still be no closer to finding what they really want. Yes, even comparing quotes online can be tedious. It's possible to compare quotes from many different companies very quickly and with no stress or a lot of web site-hopping.

How to Find Online Car Insurance Quotes

There are many sites dedicated to giving you car insurance quotes online. These sites will help you compare rates and plans side-by-side from many different companies at once. One of the most time-consuming factors of searching for affordable car insurance is the variety of companies offering this service. You could drive yourself crazy accessing each web site and gathering different quotes, one at a time, from each company's web site. Why not get many quotes all at the same time? The beauty of the Internet is that you can, and this will save you a whole lot of time and aggravation.

Where Do You Find These Sites?

A simple Internet search will lead you in the right direction if you're looking for companies that will give you online car insurance quotes. These web sites are very easy to use and to navigate, and in most cases you have only to fill out a very simple online form. All the standard questions are part of this form - what kind of car you drive, your age, etc. You will be under no obligation to purchase any of the plans you take a closer look at, and can compare and bargain shop to your heart's content.

Online Car Insurance

Some plans can only be purchased through an online means with some companies. More and more in today's world, everything is going online, so it only makes sense that car insurance move online, too. Online car insurance is becoming more and more popular, and every virtually every company that is in search of new customers has a web site now. Why go through the stress of talking to twenty different people on the telephone if you can avoid it? Online car insurance is definitely your best bet if you're thinking about changing you car insurance plan...or even if you aren't. Use this as a resource to be sure your current company is offering the best coverage and price. If you find otherwise, bring your findings to your current insurance agent and see if there is anything better that they can do.
life insurance quotes and tips

Monday, September 17, 2007

UK Car Insurance - The Emergency Treatment Policy Clause

We're looking through a selection of the clauses in a fairly standard UK motor insurance policy. In this instance it's the "Emergency Treatment" clause which sorts out who pays for any medical attention needed following a motoring incident.

Current UK laws dictate that you must pay costs to the first medical person to treat you following a road traffic accident. This is part of the Road Traffic Act. People have been known to refer to this as a charge for an ambulance. Strictly speaking this is not true but in reality it is normally the ambulance paramedics that provide the care and the account is sent to to you from the N H S region that supplied the ambulance and its crew.

You are liable for this payment no matter who is blamed for causing the accident. Your insurer will meet the cost under this section. Just send the account into them and they will pay it straight to the hospital. Alternatively you can pay it yourself and ask your insurer to reimburse you.

Occasionally in a hectic claims office, the clerical staff might miss the account if it was sent in with other papers. It's possible that you could receive a reminder from the hospital that the account is still outstanding. Tell the hospital who your insurers are and telephone the claims office. Be firm but please don't lose your temper.

The insurance company paying this account in itself does not affect your no claims bonus. It is not dealt with as a claim. So, in the very unlikely event that your insurers were to pay this and nothing else your bonus would remain intact. In reality, in an accident where someone is injured, it is unlikely there is no other types of claim to be met.

Theoretically, if another party is at fault for the accident you can send this account on to their insurer but you are just asking for unnecessary complications. I would advise you not to bother. It doesn't make any difference to you whichever way.

As a result of recent changes in the law, hospitals now also charge the insurance companies for treatment given to third party victims of accidents, with certain limits applied. These are paid to the NHS Trust in cases where you were to blame for the accident and another person has needed treatment for the injury that you caused. This change to the regulations has dramatically increased the cost of settling claims and has thus increased your insurance premiums. Some of those inside the insurance industry consider this to be a further case of "stealth tax" taxation by the Government.

By: Terry Cod

Sunday, September 16, 2007

Cheap Auto Insurance Online

You should also look online and see what companies are advertising common auto insurance. You can go through the considerable Web resources of these insurers to learn accurately what the various insurers have to offer and what their comparative cheap auto insurance rates and quotations are. Those seeking cheap auto insurance should be cognizant of the various types of coverage they will be offered and make a decision as to whether any of them are practical to their situation.
whilst it comes to cheap auto insurance, one of the best places to get some, or at least to get the data you need, is through online resources. When it comes to cheap auto insurance, your choices are endless, with hundreds of insurance companies trying to coax you with the best possible cheap auto insurance tariffs and quotes. Really cheap auto insurance can be had as long as you, as an literate consumer, are equipped with the full range of facts and information about how insurance companies come up with quotes for car insurance.
So we are all in the hunt of the cheap auto insurance. There is the matter of looking around for cheap auto insurance as well. Be on the lookout for advertisements on the radio or television pertaining to cheap auto insurance.
One of the elements which make auto financing cheap is crafting high down payments. Some key factors when shopping for cheap car insurance is to initially make sure you get at least three or four quotations since the price you pay for your car insurance can vary by hundreds of dollars. Actually, auto insurance quotes help you to classify the insurance preferences available for your car.
It pays to shop around for cheap auto insurance and there are things you can control when you ask for certain consideration in your price quotes. It definitely pays to do your homework, comparing cheap auto insurance prearranged by different companies.
While searching cheap auto loans, it is the decision of a person whether he wants to go for new or used automobile. Usually, cheap auto loans are secured on the automobile itself. many other loans in the market demand for collateral but here in cheap auto financing there is no desireto keep collateral.
When it comes to cheap auto insurance, there are many different areas of the business that come into play. One of the easiest, fastest, safest and cost effectual ways to save money is getting cheap auto insurance rates. Choosing the best auto is very important to getting cheap insurance.

By: wealthsuccess

Saturday, September 15, 2007

Auto Insurance For You And Your Pocket

One of the advantages of getting online auto insurance quotes is the fact that you can collect your thoughts in the privacy of your home or office before you talk to an insurance company representative.
Obviously, the amount of coverage of the vehicle impacts the price of auto insurance quotes.
Be aware that there are a few well known things the Kelly Blue Book isn't much good for. It doesn't give any thought to how dependable a car is, or how problematic it may be. You can get some indication of this by gauging how well the car retains its value, but Kelly Blue Book will mostly tell you pricing.
Although using the cost or price for your next auto insurance policy may be a good start when comparing auto insurance coverage providers it definitely shouldn't the only factor used to determine which company to obtain your next auto policy from once you actually decide to make a purchase.
Before buying auto insurance, it is very important that the person requiring insurance analyses the companies that provide vehicle insurance quotes.
Finding the right auto insurance company for you is an important job, and as such, you need to invest some time and energy in locating the company that will offer you the best deal.
Probably the most difficult choice will be which online auto insurance provider to choose from in order to ascertain your free quotes.
After you've confirmed a quote that you like buying auto insurance online allows you to either acknowledge the quote right then and there or you can vote to receive the rate provided in the mail.
Both insurance quotes and insurance coverage can differ a lot from different auto insurance companies.
Getting a reliable online auto insurance quote, might be a little tricky, due to the many different options available to you.

By: wealthsuccess

Friday, September 14, 2007

The Kelly Blue Book And Auto Insurance

If you're wanting to buy for a second hand, be sure to look in the Kelly Blue Book prior to getting too far into your search. Using the Kelly Blue Book is a great way for you to figure out how much you should spend for the car you're interested in.
The Kelly Blue Book looks at all angles of used cars and used-car pricing. It will tell you how much you could pay for almost every car that's ever been produced, and is organized in an easy-to-use style by make, model, year of the car and condition.
Be aware that there are a few well known things the Kelly Blue Book isn't much good for. It doesn't give any indication of how dependable a car is, or how problematic it is. You can get some idea of this by gauging how well the car retains its value, but Kelly Blue Book will primarily tell you pricing.
Motorists in the states must beappreciative that it is obligatory by law that car owners have auto insurance policies. What if each driver had to pay the cash out of their own pocket happily we have fabricated a cunning tool just to bypass such mean circumstances and this tool is called car or auto insurance. Finding the right auto insurance agency for you is an important job, and as such, you need to enable some time and eagerness in uncovering the company that will offer you the best deal.
After all, the most antagonistic decision you need you need to make is which online auto insurance provider to choose from so that you can receive free quotes right away. Probably the most difficult intention will be which online auto insurance provider to choose from in order to acknowledge receipt of your free quotes. After you've confirmed a quote that you like buying auto insurance online allows you to either accept the quote right then and there or you can opt to receive the rate provided in the mail.

By: wealthsuccess

Thursday, September 13, 2007

Did You Know That Gap Insurance Can Save You Thousands Of Dollars On Your New Car?

If you purchased a new car and are involved in a accident shortly thereafter where your car is totaled, do you know if your car insurance policy that has full coverage on it will take care of all of the costs?

Did you know that when you drive your new car off the lot, the value of your vehicle immediately goes down, sometimes as much as 20%-30%.

Let's say that you paid $20,000 for you new vehicle and you have an accident a month later, and your vehicle is totaled in the accident. Maybe you made at the most one payment and if you did not put very much money down, your loan amount is still close to the $20,000 purchase price. Especially considering that you would have financed the tax and other fees.

Unfortunately, even with full coverage on you car insurance, which includes comprehensive and collision, you will only receive the fair market value of your vehicle which could be as much as 20%-30% ($4,000 - $6,000.00) lower than the purchase price.

That means you may be stuck paying that 20%-30% ($4,000 - $6,000.00). On a $20,000 car. Just a 20% depreciation on that vehicle would be $4,000! That amount could be more if you financed your taxes and license into your loan.

If you have purchased Gap insurance with your current insurer, it would insure you for the difference between the loan amount on the car and the actual fair market value. But, not all insurance companies offer Gap insurance.

Gap insurance can also be purchased seperatly from other insurance companies than the one insuring your vehicle.

The most frequently asked questions about Gap insurace are as follows:

What is Gap insurance? Gap insurance will insure a vehicle for the difference between what is owed on it and what an insurance company determines to be the fair market value of the vehicle. A very cost effective way to financially protect yourself from a total loss when buying a new car is to purchase Gap insurance.

Is Gap insurance required on all new vehicles? No.

Can I buy Gap insurance for my older vehicle? Gap Insurance is available on new, used, and refinanced cars, trucks and SUV's purchased or refinanced within the past 12 months.

What does Gap insurance cover? The difference between the actual cash value of your car and the balance on your car loan is called the Gap. If your car is stolen or declared totaled, your auto insurance company will pay you the actual cash value of the car. Without Gap Insurance your lender will hold you responsible for paying the Gap (difference). The net effect is that you will have to come up with hundreds or thousands of dollars to pay off that debt.

Does my leased car automatically come with Gap insurance? Frequently, Gap insurance is built into the lease rate but don't assume it is since every lease is different.

Can I buy Gap insurance from the dealership? Yes, most dealerships offer Gap insurance but usually at a higher cost. Check your current policy to see if you already have Gap insurance before shopping for a new Gap policy. Before buying a new car you should call your current insurance company to see if they offer it.

By: Barry Brenner

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

UK Car Insurance - What Happens When An Insurance Company Decides To Write Off A Vehicle

A vehicle is written off when the estimated repair cost is higher than the present market value of a similar vehicle. Once the insurer decides that the vehicle is a write off then they begin the process described here.

1) The vehicle will have been moved from the repairers to a salvage yard. This is done to save storage costs imposed by repairers for vehicles in their compounds.

2) The insurance company will ask you for the vehicle documents. That is the V5 registration document, purchase receipts, keys, MOT certificate if your car requires one, service records and details of any outstanding finance. They will ask that you return your certificate of insurance. They will require the original paperwork before they will be able to settle your claim. Photocopies to start with will suffice but will slow down the process.

If you ask them why they require all of this paperwork, they will likely tell you that they need to check that they have the correct model of the car, that it had a valid MOT certificate and proof of service record to establish that is has been maintained. These are all valid reasons. But they also need to validate your claim for fraud. Official documents have several anti-fraud measures designed by the issuing Government department. A careful check on the originals will help the claims official to establish quickly that these are indeed genuine documents and not fake. If there is doubt, they will use forensic science equipment to prove that the documents are genuine or fake. You would have to be a very shrewd villain to successfully forge all these documents. My advice is - let your insurers have the original paperwork as soon as they request them. Your claim will be delayed if you send copies.

3) Whilst you are awaiting your settlement proposals, your insurers will be setting other wheels in motion as well. They will record the claim on the 'motor insurance anti fraud and theft register'. (MIAFTR) This is a UK data base that has been recording all insurance written off vehicles and stolen cars since the start of the 1980's. It checks your car against the contents of the database to see if the car has ever been the subject of an insurance total loss before, or whether it has been previously stolen and never recovered. It checks against your name and address; post code; your vehicle's registration number and VIN (vehicle identification number). If there is a match further questions will be asked of you, and your insurance company might begin 'fraud investigation' mode.

MIAFTR also automatically checks your car against the HPI (Hire Purchase Information) database. If you took out finance to buy the vehicle and you still have an outstanding balance, it will be on the HPI database. Rest assured that your insurer will discover it. So be honest and tell them about your finance. The loan company is the legal owner of your car. Any settlement must be made to them until the loan is paid off. Whatever is left is paid to you. Similarly, your claim will be recorded on CUE (Claims and Underwriting Exchange). This happens automatically on all vehicle and house insurance claims. Not all insurance companies subscribe but most of them do.

Problems can arise where the outstanding balance of the loan exceeds the value of the vehicle. In this case the insurance company does not completely pay off the loan. I remember a scheme for motorcycles. Young people went into a dealer, bought a new motorcycle plus all the leathers, helmets etc with money borrowed against the value of the bike. The interest rate on the loan was very very high. Some time later they would have an accident and they would total loss it (or it was stolen). The value of the motor cycle was much less than the total purchase price plus the interest. It caused a furor which was blamed on the insurer and not the stupidity of the motorcyclist for getting involved in such a bad deal with the shop.

4) Your insurer will be obtaining bids for the salvage. The more they can get, the less they will have to pay out on your claim. There has been much publicity about cars which have been written off finding their way back on to the road, or being purchased by the criminal fraternity to aid their disguise of a stolen vehicle. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) have issued a code concerning the disposal of vehicle salvage. All insurance companies adhere to these rules. The result is that the majority of salvage is sold by the companies to established salvage merchants. If the vehicle is damaged to an extent that meets listed criteria, it will be stamped with a code that makes it illegal to repair the car and return it to the road. Vehicles with less damage can still be repaired and put back on the highway.

5) Once all of the above processes have taken place your insurers will make a settlement proposal to you.

Their assessor will have referenced the trade publications to value the vehicle, adjusting these figures for the age, condition and mileage of your car, and his knowledge of the current car market. The final figure he comes up with forms the basis of the settlement figure given to you. An excess might have to be deducted along with any outstanding finance.

Your insurer will make it very clear exactly how much you will get and explain any adjustments to you. If you pay your motor insurance by Direct Debit, the chances are that any remaining premium will also be deducted from the settlement cheque.

6) When you have accepted the value (some companies might require your signature to a document called a 'form of discharge') you will be sent a cheque.

7) Your insurers then own the remains of your car and, subject to legislation and the ABI codes, can do what they want with it. This will undoubtedly mean they will sell the salvage.

By: Terry Cod

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Auto Insurance , A Must For Piece Of Mind

Probably the number one feature that many consumers compare among the various car insurance companies they are thinking about purchasing their next auto insurance policy from is the price of the automobile insurance coverage.
One of the advantages of getting online auto insurance quotes is the fact that you can collect your thoughts in the privacy of your home or office before you talk to an insurance company representative.
The Kelly Blue Book looks at all aspects of used cars and used-car prices. It will tell you how much you should pay for almost any car that's ever been made, and is organized in an easy-to-use style by make, model, year of the car and condition.
Before buying auto insurance, it is very important that the person requiring insurance analyses the companies that provide vehicle insurance quotes.
Another tip to avoid trying too many companies is to get an insurance broker as they can keep in touch with a lot of different auto insurance providers for you and then give you the best quotes quickly..
Auto insurance quotes can be helpful in other ways too, as they can provide you with information in regards to the different options that can be added to a policy such as deductibles, fire, theft and vandalism.
After you've confirmed a quote that you like purchasing auto insurance online allows you to either accept the quote right then and there or you can vote to receive the rate endowed in the mail.
Probably the most difficult choice will be which online auto insurance provider to choose from in order to ascertain your free quotes.
Both insurance quotes and insurance coverage can differ a lot from different auto insurance companies.
Shop, compare and then make the switch to an auto insurance company that is right for you

By: wealthsuccess

Monday, September 10, 2007

How get cheap auto insurance quotes and save money?

Comparison site auto insurance is by far the quickest and easiest way to find a cheap insurance rate quote.

For reception of the answer from the insurance company you should fill the questionnaire with your insurance, history and quantity of insurance which you want.

We require protection against risk, accidents and unforeseen circumstances operating the car, therefore we should count on a good covering of insurance which guarantees us safety.

Who wants to spend a well-being on insurance premiums?

You need to be knowledgeable about the steps you can take to help ensure that you are eligible for the lowest cheap auto insurance rates possible. In addition, you need to know how to locate the insurance companies that offer cheap automobiles insurance and compare available rates.

Automobile insurance should not cost you of well-being. For this purpose you should choose a way on which you can save money for your insurance and find cheap automobile insurance. You only should spend a few time for detection of cheap insurance, carrying out sequence of steps:

1. Choose your automobile insurance company wisely.

2. Make sure that it safely.

3. Learn opinion of friends and independent sources concerning the chosen insurance company.

4. Make sure available licenses of the chosen auto insurance company.

5. Ask about all auto insurance discounts.

6. Familiarize with conditions and a policy of the company of auto insurance chosen by you.

7. Purchase the minimum liability auto insurance policy. The choice of the minimal policy of auto insurance is effective way of reception of cheap auto insurance for your budget.

8. Raise your auto insurance deductible. I lift your deductible, you should pay more in case of damage or involving in a road accident, but automobile insurance payments will be cheaper, than at lower deductible.

9. You can lower your insurance payment establishing anticreeping devices.

10. The latent items and expenses are hidden in the cheap scheme of auto insurance. The latent expenses can influence cost of the auto insurance chosen by you.

11. Give the exact information on you as it will influence cost of received auto insurance.

12. Car that is popular with thieves or is expensive to repair will cost more to insure.

If you can find an insurance company who will combine car insurance along with perhaps family insurance, home insurance, boat insurance, life insurance and e.t.c., you may save a large amount of money. It should be studied at a choice of the insurance company, packaging policies makes things cheaper and easier to manage.

Using you can save this information more on insurance of your car, but it is necessary to remember that the best auto policy for you probably not the cheapest.

By: Alexei Timchuk

Sunday, September 9, 2007

UK Car Assurance - What Makes The Insurer Wtite Off A Vehicle

What is a write off or total loss? It happens where the car repair cost is more than the worth of the car, taking into account the salvage value of the damaged car.

We'll assume that your car has been badly damaged. This could be the result of a collision, or damage as a result of the car having been stolen. Let's say that the repair costs are estimated at £5,000. If value of your car is for example £5,500 and the salvage is worth £600 then it makes financial sense for your insurance company to write off the car rather than pay to fix it.

Suppose that the salvage valuation is only £400. It's very likely that they will still total loss the car. The estimated cost of £5000 to repair is based on a preliminary inspection and estimation of the repairs that might be needed. There is a strong possibility that there could be more damage discovered once the repair was started. So even though it looks cheaper to repair the car it would be treated as a border line total loss.

They will want to move the damaged car into 'free and safe storage'. This is normally at a salvage dealer. Their reasoning isn't difficult to follow. Repair Garages have cottoned on that there is a fast buck to be made. They won't be appointed as the repairer but they can bill your insurer simply for keeping your car in their yard. They will sometimes charge outrageous daily rates that can make car clamping fees seem like peanuts! Even the cheapest charges are at the same level as car parking fees in Central London. Insurers pay out vast sums each year for storage charges so they need to move your car at the first opportunity.

Because a few policyholders have caused problems and cost them unnecessary money they might even tell you that they are going to move it in 48 hours rather than requesting your permission. What has occasionally happened is that the salvage people move so quickly that the salvage truck is collecting the car before they've even told you that it is a write off!. Not surprisingly this can cause upset to some customers.

But bearing in mind the reason, please be understanding! They aren't disposing of your car, just moving it to save money. You might ask why you should bother about saving money for your insurance company? The reason is logical. The more money that the insurer pay out on claims, the more you pay in insurance premiums. It is in all of our interests to keep their costs down. My advice is simple- do as they ask. Always agree to have it moved from a repairer. If you refuse, they can insist you pay the storage charges from the date of your refusal.

Occasionally when dealing with an older car, it can be a total loss yet still be perfectly safe and legal to drive. Maybe it has a low value and only slight bodywork damage. Frequently insurers will let you keep the vehicle at your house whilst the next steps in the procedure take place, provided it is not incurring any charges.

By: Terry Cod


Source: http://www.myaddirectory.com/Article/UK-Car-Assurance---What-Makes-The-Insurer-Wtite-Off-A-Vehicle/8475

Online Car Insurance

Robert Lawrence

Car Insurance Quotes

Buying car insurance can be a real hassle, taking up most of a day while you call different companies to get quotes and wait to hear back. Everyone advertises that they are the best and they give the best deals - but the same can't be true for all of them. And you know that you want to get the most for your money. If you're a serious bargain shopper, it might take you a long time before you can narrow the field when it comes to car insurance. However, real bargain shoppers know that the Internet is their best bet for a great deal - on virtually anything. When you get your quotes online, the whole process is much quicker and easier. And the best part of all is, no automated voices telling you to press 1...or 2...or 3...

Ah, the Ease of Online Buying

Because it's so much easier, a lot of people feel more comfortable buying car insurance online, in a click-and-point process that doesn't involve sitting through ten minutes of automated questions and answers. The options and companies are endless even in a strictly online environment. The casual consumer might search through web sites and read quotes for hours, and still be no closer to finding what they really want. Yes, even comparing quotes online can be tedious. It's possible to compare quotes from many different companies very quickly and with no stress or a lot of web site-hopping.

How to Find Online Car Insurance Quotes

There are many sites dedicated to giving you car insurance quotes online. These sites will help you compare rates and plans side-by-side from many different companies at once. One of the most time-consuming factors of searching for affordable car insurance is the variety of companies offering this service. You could drive yourself crazy accessing each web site and gathering different quotes, one at a time, from each company's web site. Why not get many quotes all at the same time? The beauty of the Internet is that you can, and this will save you a whole lot of time and aggravation.

Where Do You Find These Sites?

A simple Internet search will lead you in the right direction if you're looking for companies that will give you online car insurance quotes. These web sites are very easy to use and to navigate, and in most cases you have only to fill out a very simple online form. All the standard questions are part of this form - what kind of car you drive, your age, etc. You will be under no obligation to purchase any of the plans you take a closer look at, and can compare and bargain shop to your heart's content.

Online Car Insurance

Some plans can only be purchased through an online means with some companies. More and more in today's world, everything is going online, so it only makes sense that car insurance move online, too. Online car insurance is becoming more and more popular, and every virtually every company that is in search of new customers has a web site now. Why go through the stress of talking to twenty different people on the telephone if you can avoid it? Online car insurance is definitely your best bet if you're thinking about changing you car insurance plan...or even if you aren't. Use this as a resource to be sure your current company is offering the best coverage and price. If you find otherwise, bring your findings to your current insurance agent and see if there is anything better that they can do.

Robert co-founded Insurance4USA.com, an insurance quote shopping service, in 1999. He has been a licensed insurance agent in New York State since 1990.


Source: http://www.financenook.com/Article/Online-Car-Insurance/31419

Saturday, August 25, 2007

Does Your Car Insurance Cover You For Driving Abroad?

By law, British motor insurers must cover your car for the minimum cover required by the law in other European countries, or the minimum cover required by UK law, whichever is greater.

In most cases, this means that no matter where you are driving your car, you'll have at least Third Party coverage. There are special conditions that may apply however, and you'd do best to check with your individual insurer to find out about limits or conditions on your policy. These are some of the most common limits and conditions found on UK policies regarding driving your own car abroad.


No cover for damage to your own vehicle

While you may have cover for collision damages when driving at home, many insurers will only cover damage to other vehicles if you are driving abroad. You can extend your policy to cover damages to your car from fire, theft and collision while abroad by talking with your insurance company or broker.

No breakdown cover abroad

Even if you extend your car insurance to cover you while driving your car overseas, you won't be covered if your car should breakdown on the side of the road. Your insurer may be able to provide international breakdown cover, though you may get a better price on breakdown cover if you buy it in conjunction with your holiday insurance or even through your home insurer.

Advance notification required

Some car insurance companies require you to notify them in advance if you will be taking your car abroad with you. If you fail to give them notice and are involved in an accident, you may be left with only third party cover. Check your policy to find out how much advance notice your insurer requires in order to extend your policy to cover you when driving your car abroad.

Time limits on motor insurance abroad

Some higher end motor insurance policies allow you full coverage overseas for up to a stated length of time - generally 30 to 90 days - at no extra charge. They still require advance notice to extend your coverage, but as long as your overseas visits are less than the stated amount of time, you won't be charged an extra premium. Be sure to check for any limitations on your policy while overseas. In most cases, only repairs will be covered. You'll have to make other arrangements for transportation, car hire and other accommodations.

** Tips for Taking Your Car Abroad **

1. Check to find out how much cover your current motor insurance provides if you are traveling abroad.

2. Arrange for a Green Card through your insurer. The Green Card is an easy way to provide proof of insurance cover in most European countries.

3. Get separate breakdown cover. Most motor insurance policies do not provide any breakdown cover in foreign countries. If you carry separate breakdown cover at home, however, check that policy. Some may cover you for short trips abroad at no additional cost.

4. Ask your insurer for a European accident statement form and keep it with you. Most will provide one free of charge. It's a handy way to jot down details of an accident while they are still fresh in your mind.

5. Because foreign cars are an attractive target for thieves, take precautions to make it difficult to steal your car. Always lock the doors, and keep motor insurance and vehicle ownership papers on your person rather than in your car.

By: Simon Christopher

Friday, August 17, 2007

Should I Buy Rental Car Insurance?

Rental car agencies have a menu of insurance policies they would like to sell you. While each policy could be of some benefit under the right circumstances, you should review each plan (its provisions, limitations, and exclusions) before making a purchase. It is a good idea to request the detailed information from an agent at the rental office, as most companies only provide a summary on their Web sites.

Keep in mind; you may not need to buy this additional car insurance because you have auto insurance from your own car insurance company. Generally speaking, when you rent a car, the liability coverage limits you have in your own auto insurance policy remain in effect with the same limits. In addition, the comprehensive and collision coverages you have in your own auto insurance policy remain in effect with the same deductibles. You do have comprehensive and collision coverage don't you? See our article, "How Much Car Insurance Should You Buy?" for a listing of coverage types and definitions.

You may also have some kind of additional auto insurance coverage through your credit card but it is important that you check your credit card information for specific details. Some cards only offer coverage if you rent your car from a particular agency. Some limit the days for which coverage is available. Some will only provide coverage for certain types and/or classes of cars. With some cards, the coverage is not automatic and you must enroll in a program to get coverage. Some cards that advertise automatic rental insurance really only reimburse you for the deductible that you would have to pay under your regular insurance policy. Still others may provide only collision and comprehensive coverage, leaving you exposed for personal injury or property damage to others. Rental car agencies typically offer liability coverage in two parts - a supplemental liability policy protects against claims from others and a Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) covers the rental car. LDW is not technically insurance; rather, it is a company's agreement not to hold the consumer liable for loss from all or part of any damage to merchandise.

Before you rent a vehicle, realize the charges you could be responsible for and how these charges are covered or not covered by both your own auto insurance policy and the car insurance the rental company is offering.

If you suffer a loss that is not covered under your auto policy, check your other insurance policies. For example, if personal property has been stolen from your rental car, it may be covered under your homeowners or renters policy. Similarly, certain medical policies may cover costs of injuries not covered by your car insurance policy.

As always, check with your insurance company to find out exactly what is covered under your own auto insurance policy. Remember, for quick quotes and the easiest way to buy car insurance on-line or over the phone, visit us at http://online-insurance-advisor.com/



Fill our free insurance quote and get answers on your questions

Simple Steps to Filing Your Car Insurance Claim

Having even a small car accident can be one of life's least enjoyable moments. However, accidents happen, and sooner or later, we all have the experience of meeting one of our fellow road travelers up close and personal. Using the following simple steps to filing your claim will help you get over this speed bump as smoothly as possible.


* Understand your policy before a loss, sit down and carefully read your insurance policy. Call your agent or company if you have any questions about what is or is not covered.

* Make sure everyone is okay and check to see if anyone needs medical attention. Even if your injuries are minor, you may still want to have them checked out at a hospital or with your family doctor. Minor injuries can become major, long-lasting injuries.

* Exchange information when you are involved in an accident, get the other driver's name, address, phone number, insurance carrier, and insurer's phone number. Be prepared to give the same information about yourself to the other driver. You can find insurers’ telephone numbers on the proof-of-insurance cards that should be carried on your person when operating a motor vehicle.

* Identify witnesses and ask witnesses to the accident for their names and phone numbers in case their account of the accident is needed.

* File an accident report and contact local law enforcement officers to have an accident report prepared. If law enforcement is not reachable, accident reports and detailed instructions are available at all police departments, sheriff's offices, your local Department of Motor Vehicles office, and on your local Department of Motor Vehicles' web site

* Notify your insurer by contacting your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. An insurance adjuster will review the accident report to determine who caused the accident. If the accident was not your fault, you can have either your insurance company or the at-fault driver's insurance company handle the repair or replacement of your vehicle. If you use the other driver's company, you will not have a claim on your automobile policy and you will not have to pay a deductible.

* Do not release insurers too early. Do not relieve your insurance company of its responsibility until the damages are settled to your satisfaction. For example, have your insurance company handle the claim if the other party's insurance company questions its policyholder’s negligence or offers an unacceptable settlement.

* Consider these settlement factors.
o Bodily injuries: You may be entitled to a monetary settlement for injuries caused by another at fault (liable) party. It can take several days for some injuries to become apparent.
o Damages: The insurance company is responsible to pay for the reasonable cost of repairs to your vehicle. An insurance adjuster will assess the damage. Usually, insurance companies and auto body shops negotiate disagreements about what should be repaired. If you disagree with their conclusions, you have the right to obtain another appraisal at any auto body shop.
o Appraisal clause: Most auto insurance policies include an appraisal clause, which can be used to help settle disputes about physical damage claims between you and your insurance company. (The appraisal clause does not apply for claims you file with the other party's insurance company.) If you cannot reach an agreement with your company, you or your insurer can initiate the appraisal clause. Your appraiser and your insurer's appraiser then select an independent umpire to try to resolve the dispute. Check your policy or ask your agent or insurance company for more information about the appraisal clause.

And that is it. While filing a claim is certainly no fun, following these seven steps will make the process almost as easy as getting free quotes and purchasing your car insurance at CarInsurance.com.

You can read more about insurance claims at our car insurance site and fill quote to get answers on you questions.