New drivers find themselves entering a strange new world – one that requires them to obtain insurance and other essentials for their vehicles. Being unfamiliar with insurance requirements, procedures and practices can make a lot of new drivers nervous and unsure of how to proceed.
Begin by familiarizing yourself with insurance requirements. How much insurance does your state require? Your local agent can help you out by telling you the minimum amounts of coverage you need. If you are driving a vehicle that is financed, you will need additional coverage as required by your loan holder.
Know that obtaining the minimum amount of insurance as required by your state may not fully protect you in the event of a loss. If you are not at fault and you only have liability, you will not be covered for the damage. If another driver is liable and does not have the required liability insurance, then you are on your own to get your car fixed. Getting money from someone without insurance can be very difficult. You may want to consider comprehensive and collision to cover any losses you may incur.
Shop around and find the best deals you can. People will have opinions as to what company is the best, and generally they have been with the same company for years. Other people will tell you horror stories about companies that didn’t pay up or that charged high amounts. Investigate for yourself and find out the facts, not just the hearsay.
New drivers often have to pay much higher premiums for years because of their lack of experience behind the wheel. Take defensive driving and receive the discount that some insurance companies give for it. Once you are licensed and driving, stay safe. You will get lower insurance premiums for having a good driving record, no tickets and no accidents. You are starting off fresh, you just need to stay that way. Avoid speeding tickets and other moving violations, and try to remain accident-free.
If your life circumstances change, notify your insurance carrier. Many companies give discounts to drivers who are married, own a home, insure multiple vehicles, get good grades in school or belong to certain organizations. You also get discounts when you drive a vehicle with safety features. If you are considering a new vehicle, get one with features like airbags and anti-theft deterrents.
Consult with your agent to find out the right amounts of coverage for your purposes and vehicle. Good communication with your agent will help you obtain what you need for insurance. You can learn a lot by asking questions and becoming more familiar with insurance requirements.