Shop auto insurance rates

The Internet has changed the ways companies do business, and as a result, it's easier than ever for you to shop around for auto insurance from the convenience of your home, anytime you like. All you need to do is take advantage of resources that are available to not only inform you, but help you to effectively shop for the right auto insurance coverage that's also affordable.

Whether you're buying a new car and need auto insurance coverage, or just want to ensure you're getting the best price on your current insurance rate, it's smart to do your research. Being an informed shopper will empower you to find the right auto insurance company and policy that fits your needs and budget.

Shopping For Auto Insurance

It is important to shop for auto insurance because you want to be adequately covered if you get in an accident. And you certainly wouldn't want to pay more for car insurance than in necessary. If you haven't shopped for auto insurance for a while, you are probably paying too much. You could possibly be saving hundreds, even thousands, per year. For example, when my fiancé and I decided to move in together, I filled in my information into a comparison quote service. The auto insurance quotes for very basic coverage on two cars) ranged from $912 to $1, 807 - a difference of $895 a year.

It may be especially important to start shopping for auto insurance if you know you are paying a higher premium because of a couple of tickets, an accident or a questionable credit rating. In these cases, shopping your policy against others may be well worth the effort.

Before you can begin shopping, you have to decide what you need. Find out what coverage is required in your state. After you know what's required, decide what - if anything - you need in addition

Look at your personal financial situation.

Get enough liability coverage to protect your assets. For instance, if you are at-fault in an accident, and you only have $50, 000 of bodily injury liability coverage but have $100, 000 in assets, attorneys could go after your treasures if other party's medical bills exceed $50, 000.

The general recommendation for liability limits are $50, 000 bodily injury liability for one person injured in an accident, $100, 000 for all people injured in an accident and $25, 000 property damage liability that is, 50/100/25) given that half of the cars on the road are worth more than $20, 000. However, you need to let your financial situation be your guide. If you have no assets, there is no need to buy excess coverage.

Consider Your Driving Habits.

If your past is filled with auto accidents, if you are a speed demon or a have long commute on a winding road, then you should get more comprehensive coverage.

Start Shopping Auto Insurance Online

Now that you have made several decisions about the coverage you want, it's time to start shopping. Bring all your records - your current insurance policy, your driver license number and your vehicle registration. And get cozy in front of your computer.

Begin with an online comparison service.

If you go to NetQuote can type in your information and get a list of comparative quotes. The form takes about 6 minutes to complete. Keep in mind, when you use quote sites, you may not get instant insurance quotes. Some companies may contact you later by e-mail, or call you to discuss your personal needs.

When agents contact you, take note of several things:

• Annual and monthly rates for the different types of coverage - make sure to keep the coverage limits the same so that you can make "apples-to-apples" comparisons
• A number to call the Agent in case you think of additional questions
• The insurance company's payment policy When is your payment due? What happens if you're late in making a payment?)
• Discounts offered by the insurance company that pertain to you