Auto Insurance
- What is auto insurance?
- What is covered by a basic auto policy?
- How much coverage do I need?
- What determines the price of my policy?
- Can I drive legally without insurance?
- How do I choose an insurance company?
- What does my credit rating have to do with purchasing insurance?
- How do I insure my teenage driver?
- Should I purchase an umbrella liability policy?
- Will my insurance cover renting a car after an accident?
- How do I file a claim?
- Can my insurance company require me to use certain types of auto repair parts?
- How are the value of my car and the cost of repair determined?
- What are my rights when filing a claim?
- If I file a claim, will my premium go up?
What determines the price of my policy?
There are many factors that influence the price you pay for auto insurance. The average American driver spends about $850 a year. Your premium may be higher or lower, depending on:
- Your driving record.
- The number of miles you drive each year.
- Where you live.
- Your age.
- The car you drive.
- The amount of coverage.
The better your record, the lower your premium. If you've had accidents or serious traffic violations, you will pay more than if you have a clean driving record. You may also pay more if you haven't been insured for a number of years.
The more miles you drive, the more chance for accidents. If you drive a lower than average number of miles per year, less than 10,000, you will pay less. For instance, some companies will give discounts to policyholders who carpool.
Insurance companies look at local trends, such as the number of accidents, car thefts and lawsuits, as well as the cost of medical care and car repair.
In general, mature drivers have fewer accidents than less experienced drivers, particularly teenagers. So insurers generally charge more if teenagers or young people below age 25 drive your car.
Some cars cost more to insure than others. Variables include the likelihood of theft, the cost of the car, the cost of repairs, and the overall safety record of the car.
Of course, like anything else, the more coverage you have, the more you pay. However, you may qualify for discounts.
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