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Auto
Insurance Basics Searching for auto insurance online
has never been easier- from comparing quotes and rates to services
offered. You can now shop around and research multiple companies and
have the final say on how many companies you choose to get quotes from
and how much you want to save. Here are some ways to save on car
insurance.
Deductibles
The deductible is the portion of a covered loss that is your
responsibility. The deductible, when applicable, applies to each covered
loss. Although deductibles vary by state, they are typically available
in amounts such as $100, $250, $500, or $1000.
For example, if you had a $500 deductible, you would need to pay $500 of
the covered loss.
Generally speaking, higher deductibles lower your premium, but increase
the amount you must pay out of your own pocket if a loss occurs. Ask
yourself how much you are willing to pay in order to save on your
premium.
Coverage
Coverages are broken down, according to purpose, but are generally
combined into one policy. Coverage descriptions are general information
and not statements of contract because policy provisions, endorsements,
limits and requirements vary by state. The most common coverages are:
Liability
When an insured is legally responsible, liability coverage pays for
accidental bodily injury and property damages to others. Bodily injury
damages include medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and
other special damages. Property damage includes damaged property and may
include loss of use. Liability coverage also pays defense and court
costs. State laws usually determine the minimum amounts, but higher
amounts are available.
Personal Injury Protection
Required in some states. Pays medical expenses for covered persons,
regardless of fault, for treatment due to an auto accident. It may also
pay for rehabilitation, lost earnings, replacement of services (child
care if a parent is disabled, for example) and funeral expenses.
Medical Payments
Available in most states. Pays medical and funeral expenses for covered
persons, regardless of fault, when those expenses are related to an auto
accident.
Collision
Pays for damage to a covered vehicle caused by collision with another
object or by upset of the car. A deductible is required.
Comprehensive
Pays for loss of or damage to a covered vehicle, except loss caused by
collision or upset. Examples include loss caused by fire, wind, hail,
flood, vandalism, theft or impact with an animal. A deductible may
apply.
Uninsured Motorist
Pays damages when a covered person is injured in an auto accident caused
by a driver who does not have liability insurance. In some states this
coverage may also pay for property damage.
Underinsured Motorist
Pays damages when a covered person is injured in an auto accident caused
by another driver who has insufficient liability insurance. Application
of this coverage varies by state and depends upon policy provisions.
Rental Reimbursement
Pays expenses incurred for renting a car when your auto is disabled due
to an auto accident. Daily allowances or limits vary by state or policy
provisions.
Emergency Road Service
Pays expenses incurred for having your auto towed as a result of a
breakdown. Towing limits vary by state or policy provisions. |