Most people have no idea what a car insurance policy really is. The terminology used isn't self explanatory and isn't easily understood by people who aren't involved in the insurance business. If you're buying a car and shopping for an insurance policy and want to gain some understanding about what you're spending cash on then this will help you greatly.
Insurance companies offer different types of insurance coverage. Since insurance is regulated at the state level most insurance companies have options that vary by state. Options which cover accident causing injury, damage to another vehicle, or property that you would be legally held responsible for.
- Comprehensive coverage helps to pay for any damage or loss to an insured vehicle NOT caused by a collision such as loss from a fire, wind, hail, vandalism, or theft
- Collision coverage covers any collisions with other vehicles or objects
- PIP (personal injury protection) coverage is a necessary and reasonable payment for any covered person in the event of an automobile accident
When you make a claim chance are you will have pay the deductable amount. An insurance policy deductible simply means that you will pay the agreed amount upon amount if an accident, damage or loss occurs. When filing a claim with your insurance agent you are liable for the deductible amount only. All other costs are the responsibility of the car insurer.
Most people are not aware of who their car insurance policy covers. An insurance policy usually covers you and your spouse, any relatives that reside in your home, and any other licensed drivers that you have given permission to drive your vehicle.
It is illegal to operate a vehicle that doesn't have automobile insurance. If an accident or any other damaging situation occurs while you're driving an uninsured vehicle you'll end up in big trouble. It costs a lot of money, but the expense will never be equal to the costs you could pay if you do not have automobile insurance.
Speaking of costs, many first time car buyers search for
no down payment car loans. If you don't currently have automobile insurance, many carriers require a more money up front to get the policy started. While you may be able to get a car loan with no money down, chances are you won't be able find an automobile insurer to do the same.