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INSURANCE TIPS
When shopping for insurance, price should not be your deciding factor. Don’t believe everything you’ve seen in the commercials. The cheapest quote is not always the insurance that is right for your needs. Big differences in price usually mean big differences in coverage and/or service; which may not become visible until you file a claim and need it the most.
Ask questions. Ask your friends and family which insurance company they have. Ask if they have filed a claim. Ask them to rate the experience. Ask if they would purchase insurance with the same company again. When you receive your quotes, make sure you are comparing the same coverage levels and options. Below are some basic points you should know and understand about any insurance coverage you are considering.
 • The actual coverage you are quoted. Liablilty, collision, comprehensive, uninsured motorist, stacked, unstacked, etc. You need to know what these terms mean and ask the insurance company to explain them.
• The policy limits and what they mean. Some leased and financed vehicles have minimum requirements on coverage. In Florida, the minimum legal requirement does not give you much protection. If an accident reaches your policy maximum, you could be sued for additional monies.
• If the policy includes comprehensive and collision coverage (if desired or needed). Most financed or leased vehicles require collision and comprehensive coverage.
• If you have collision and comprehensive coverage, what the deductible is for each. Sometimes they are different.
• If the policy includes rental vehicle coverage. What are the limits? Will this policy transfer to the rental vehicle while yours is being repaired? If not, you may have to purchase additional insurance from the rental company to cover the rental vehicle while your vehicle is being repaired; which can cost from $10.00 per day and up.
• Which drivers are included in the coverage? Very important if you have other licensed drivers living in your household.
• What options are covered. Some insurance companies will not insure aftermarket sound systems, wheels, body kits, running boards, etc. without specific additional coverage. Some only cover these items up to a limited amount. If you have or are planning to purchase these items, you need to know if they are covered and what the limits are.
• How to file a claim. Is there an 800 number, a website, a local agent, 24/7 assistance?
• What guidelines are used when repairing your vehicle. Do they use aftermarket parts? Require you to get 3 estimates? Charge betterment and depreciation? Have local offices with experienced claims adjusters and appraisers?
• Do they have local direct repair partners? If so, do they guarantee the work and for how long?
By asking these questions, you can make a truly informed decision and be confident in the fact that you have the coverage you need, when you need it.
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