Knocking different doors of Insurance providers might seem to be an uphill struggle. Thus, most people settle for companies whose television advertisements tempt them the most. But, is it a wise idea? An in-depth inspection is a must to avail the best profits from car insurance. For that, you must research, ask and talk to multiple insurance providers.
To talk, you must have some relevant questions in hand. You cannot visit a car insurance provider with a blank head, listen to the offers, agree to them, and cut short your load at once. A few important queries need to be cleared in order to have a bigger and clearer picture of your car insurance.
That is why we are here with the 9 Best Questions to Ask Before Picking a Car Insurance Provider.
Make sure you include these questions during your discussion with the agent:
1. What are the payment options?
So, the first thought that lurks in our mind before picking a car insurance provider is: What are the payment options? Don’t let this thought sit there merely as a thought. Put the question in front of the agent!
It is a matter of fact, paying monthly installments is a lot better and easier than paying annual installments. Or you could go with quarterly payments too. Paying the whole sum of the installment at once annually might give you some discounts too. So, ask your provider about all possible methods and then choose the one that suits you the best.
2. A 24-hour claims service?
Imagine your car meets with an accident Saturday morning and you wait till Monday morning to avail a claim service because your provider doesn’t open his office during weekends.
Horrendous? Isn’t it? So, make sure to go for insurance companies that offer 24*7 claim services via phone calls or other online methods.
3. OEM parts or After parts?
If you aren’t familiar with these terms: OEM “original equipment manufacturer” parts and After Parts are parts that can be used to substitute the damaged part of your car. While OEM parts are original parts manufactured by the original manufacturer; after parts are general parts made to substitute the original ones.
After parts are less costly and are not as reliable as original ones. Make sure you derive a clear statement from your provider on whether he will provide you with OEM parts or after parts.
4. Value of my car?
You must never skip asking about the total value of a vehicle before actually investing in it. Know the total cost which includes the installment as well as insurance cost.
Is the insurance cost worth the investment or is it too high for that particular car? What changes should you make? Is the final amount affordable? These are some really important questions that you must seek clarity on before making the final decision.
5. Any discounts?
Do not expect your insurance provider to automatically shower a variety of discounts before you ask for one. Most insurers offer discounts, but to avail of the benefits, you need to seek details about it.
6. Deductible cost?
God forbid, but if your car is involved in an accident, you need to pay a deductible amount besides claiming the service to get your car repaired by the insurer. Make sure this deductible amount is affordable.
7. Who will my policy cover to drive my car?
Ask your insurer what happens if someone else (be it your own son or an employed driver) who drives the car for ‘personal’ usage crashes the car? Will your insurer pay for it? This is an important question that people overlook, but you mustn’t miss it.
8. Risk assessment?
If you are an elderly or a teen, it becomes more probable for the insurers that you would meet an accident and claim service. Hence, your insurance rate can be higher.
The assessment rates of insurance fluctuate based on your age, sex, criminal record, driving record, etc. So, make sure to check out your assessment rate with the insurer.
9. What are the coverages?
There are different types of coverage amount that the car insurance providers cover. Liability insurance, collision insurance, uninsured, and underinsured motorist protection are a few common coverages provided.
Again, do not forget to check the deductible costs before finalizing any of these coverages. The deductible cost should be reasonable with respect to the coverage.
Over to you…
Hope these questions help you clear all crucial doubts with your agent. Feel absolutely free to ask any other query that crosses your mind, because after all your car is a one-time investment.