Openly Communicate with Your Broker about Your Options for Auto Insurance in California
Auto insurance in California provides you and/or your family with a layer of protection should you be involved in a car accident where you were deemed to be at fault. Damages can be costly, and if you have no insurance, you could end up paying tons for medical bills and other expenses. An insurance policy can protect your family from this financial burden. You should also keep it current at all times so always be aware of its expiry and renewal terms.
If you are a first-time car owner, it is understandable if you are quite unsure of which coverage options are right for you. It is important that you be as open as possible when discussing your options with a broker. Be upfront about your needs, as well as your financial capacity.
To help you get started, below are a few questions that you can ask your insurance broker:
1. What is my risk evaluation? There are several risk factors that insurers will look at prior to drawing up your policy. These will help them determine your chances of filing a claim, and the more risk factors present, the higher the premium. General risks considered are: age, driving record, sex, location, and credit rating. The policyholder’s gender is taken into consideration because women are usually deemed as safer drivers.
2. Who can be included in my policy? Other than the car owner, your spouse and children can be included in your policy. Different states have different regulations and limits regarding this inclusion, so be sure to ask your broker for specific regulations that cover auto insurance in California.
How much is my deductible? The deductible is the amount that you pay should a claim be filed. Usually, it is only after you have paid your deductible for the claim will the insurer pay for the rest of the cost—or up to the limits of the policy. One way to lower your premium is to stipulate a higher deductible in your policy.
These are only a few questions that we recommend. List down all the questions that you want to ask to help you make an educated decision regarding your policy. For assistance with your auto insurance in California, please feel free to call us at 866.822.7755.