Q:
I'm buying my first car. Can you give me some tips on finding a good insurance company?
Answer:
Many insurance companies issue automobile insurance, so you should have little trouble finding a good one. There are many shopping options when looking for insurance:
- Shop online to compare multiple companies and rates at once. You'll save time and probably money as well, if you take the time to shop around.
- Contact a local insurance agent. You may want to look for an independent agent who can explain coverage and give you quotes from several companies. The best way to find a good agent is by asking for recommendations from people you know.
- You can also purchase insurance from a company that sells directly to consumers rather than through local agents.
Remember that your profile will be a good fit for some companies but possibly not for others. This can result in quite a big variance in rate quotes. Shopping around will help you find the policy that's right for you.
Compare premiums offered by various companies and look for high customer service standards and financial strength. The ability to pay a claim promptly will be important if you're ever involved in an accident. Resources for researching insurance companies include state insurance bureaus and consumer reference guides.
Finally, you should ask about discounts. You may receive a multiple policy discount if you purchase your auto insurance coverage through the same insurer that covers your homeowners or renters insurance. An insurer may also offer you a discount if you have a safe driving record or have completed a driver's education course. And, if you are insured on a parent's policy today, that counts as "prior insurance" when you're completing an application for a new insurance policy of your own.
Take the time to compare multiple companies and rates to make the decision that's right for you.