Buying your first car is a milestone and a promise of freedom. It is proof that you have made it to adulthood and are ready to navigate the world on your own. But before you take off with a string of dreams, there are some procedures you need to navigate. The most important one is buying car insurance.
From learning the basics of car insurance to determining which one works for you, there is a lot to do. Many new drivers find themselves drowning in the sea of car insurance companies. Unfortunately, there is no universal guidebook that addresses the concerns of every buyer. Therefore, in this blog, we have made a list of some do’s and don’ts that will help you navigate the process.
Do’s of Car Insurance
Here are some basic tips you need to keep in mind:
- Explore Car Models
New car owners often start to look for insurance after buying their desired car. However, it is an excellent idea to learn some basics of insurance and factor them in when you’re choosing a car model. Keep in mind that the cost of insurance is directly impacted by the kind of car you drive. Expensive or vintage models feature parts that are hard to replace. Go for a car model that has a relatively low claim and whose insurance will not break the bank.
- Learn the Types of Coverage
Just as you research different models before buying your car, pay attention to the types of coverage in your insurance package. There are several types of coverage such as liability, collision, and personal injury protection. Go through the details of all of them by yourself or seek help from your insurance dealer.
- Compare Insurance Quotes
Keep in mind that it is not necessary to buy car insurance from your car dealership. It is highly recommended to do your research and go with a provider that best suits your budget and coverage requirements. Most companies offer a free-of-cost car insurance quote feature. Make a list of your top companies, request online quotes, compare prices, and then make a decision.
- Ask for Discounts
Many people are surprised to learn how many discount services they can avail to reduce their overall premiums. Explore good student discounts, multi-policy discounts, and safe driving programs to gain benefits. Most insurance providers recommend taking defensive driving courses which can save you up to $100.
Don’ts of Car Insurance
As promised, here is a quick rundown of things you need to avoid when buying car insurance:
- False Information – Many people put down false information on their insurance applications to reduce costs. Keep in mind that this is insurance fraud and will only hurt you in the future.
- Submission of Documents – Review your insurance application several times before submitting as the process of editing and re-submitting is quite hectic.
- Avoid Car Insurance Lapses – Lapses occur when you have a registered vehicle but do not have insurance coverage. This can result in higher premium costs and can damage your vehicle history.
