What To Ask Your Car Insurance Agent

If you own a car, ensure you get the right insurance policy to protect yourself against the most likely risks. Many car owners make the mistake of getting an insurance policy without consulting a car insurance agent. Make sure you seek the assistance of an auto insurance agent when shopping for car insurance. Ask your car insurance agent about the following issues.

What Discounts Do You Stand to Gain? 

First, ask your insurer what discounts you stand to gain. First, if you are a safe driver and have no record of DUIs, tickets, or accidents, you can expect great discounts.

Safety features like alarm systems also qualify you for a discount. Additionally, if your car is a hybrid, you need to determine whether your insurer offers eco-friendly credit. Also, if you have a student in your home, you can make significant savings on auto insurance.

Some insurers also offer discounts depending on the university or college you attend, annual mileage counts, and professional associations. Furthermore, bundling multiple policies like car and homeowners sets you up for significant savings.

Does the Coverage Compensate the Original Manufacturer Parts?

If you are involved in an accident and your car requires repairs, you must determine whether your insurer will recompense you with identical parts from the car's manufacturer. Typically, original equipment manufacturer parts are more costly than aftermarket parts. Some jurisdictions require the insurer to pay OEM parts. However, in some states, insurers can choose whether to pay for OEM parts or aftermarket parts.

In some cases, insurers will pay for OEM parts like airbags and aftermarket parts for fenders and door handles. If you only want OEM parts, you have to pay higher deductibles. Fortunately, this will result in lower premium rates. Make sure you ask your insurance agent whether you will get OEM parts or aftermarket parts for car repairs.

What Do You Pay for if You Are Involved in an Accident?

The amount of money you pay out of your pocket after an accident depends on your deductibles, coverages, and policy limits. The specific circumstances leading to the accident also affect your out-of-pocket costs.

If you aren't liable for the accident, the responsible driver and their insurance company are responsible for the resulting injury or damages. If the at-fault driver isn't insured, you will have to pay for the consequential expenses. 

Ask your insurance agent how to protect yourself from such a situation as adding uninsured/underinsured motorists or collision coverage. If you are responsible for the accident, your insurer will provide coverage for medical, repairs, and legal expenses up to the limits of your policy. 

To learn more, contact an auto insurance agency.


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