How to Choose a Car Insurance Company

Car insurance can be purchased direct or through an agent.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Yellow Pages
• Telephones
• Computers
• Internet Access
• Spiral Notebooks
• Pens

Buying Through a Local Agent

1. Visit local agents' offices, ask for a rate quote and gauge responses.

2. Ask about "claims-free" discounts for time a policy is in force without a chargeable claim.

3. Ask about a "multiline" discount if you buy more than one line of insurance.

4. Ask about office hours and after-hours assistance.

5. Ask for company rating and financial information.

6. Determine if the company has agents and claims offices in other states if you travel extensively.

7. Ask friends and acquaintances about the company.

Buying Through a Direct-Market Company

8. Ask for recommendations from friends who have purchased car insurance via an 800 number or the Internet.

9. Contact three to five different companies.

10. Ask for written proposals.

11. Ask about claim filing procedures.

12. Ask about earning claims-free discounts.

13. Investigate the company's industry rating.

Tips & Warnings

• An AAA rating indicates strong financial standing. Settle for nothing less.
• Consider a direct-market company if you feel comfortable with less personal service.
• Make certain the representative knows if you reside in a "no-fault" insurance state.

[MichelleS]

on 1/12/2009 Car insurance market is very competitive nowadays. So if you are ready to spend about half a day on computer and telephone, finally you’ll be able to find an appropriate rate.
Here is what you suppose to do:
1. You should obtain multiple car insurance quotes online. Here are just some of these sites, I’m sure there are many more:
http://www.autoinsurance.24by7info.com
http://www.wisepages.com/money/insurance/index.html
http://www.autoinsurance.wisepages.com
2. Even if you’ll find some attractive rates online, do not rush to sing in. Keep these numbers in mind and call your local insurance broker. Describe your situation to him and wait for his numbers.
3. Compare all quotes you’ll get online and from your broker and make your mind. However still do not rush to sing in.
4. You have to know that company, which is offering you a good rate is indeed a reputable company. www.AMbest

[aaatexas]

on 5/31/2008 A great way to save on your car insurance is to switch to a member-owned company which will allow you to get lower rates. Once a member of AAA Texas you are eligible for their insurance products.

If you contact me for a new membership, I will:

-waive $20 admission fee on AAA membership
-include a FREE spouse/associate member (an additional $26 savings!)
-send you a free gift of your choice (travel bag, coffee mug, survival kit)
-provide a FREE, no obligation, comprehensive insurance review (avg AAA member saves over $350 a year on their car insurance!)

My contact information is below:

Paula Harold
AAA Texas (A++ Superior rated company)
[e-mail]
1-800-222-8586 ext.5078
210-403-5078

I'd love to help save you money & answer any questions about the membership or insurance in general. Just send me an email!

[choicearizona]

on 2/8/2008 http://www.arizonaautohomelifeinsurance.com/builderarizonacc/Yuma/index.php

If you use an independent insurance agent, just ask if they have A rated carriers. You might be surprised at the companies you think are great but are not A rated.

on 2/21/2006 Highly recommend that you choose and agent over purchasing insurance over the Internet or an 800#. An agent should ask you a lot of questions in order to help you determine the amount of insurance you need to carry. Remember that you are insuring your car, home, or something else against damage. More importantly you are insuring yourself against a costly lawsuit for damages caused by you or a family member. This is the liability portion of your policy that is even more important than simply covering your property. Use the expertise of a qualified agent to help you determine this amount.