Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Classic Auto Insurance

car_Classic_Auto

What a different Classic Auto Insurance :

1. Classic Auto Insurance has different mileage plans. These plans include the 1,000, 3,000, and 5,000 miles per year programs. Your policy will reflect the number of miles that you drive your classic car.

2. At the Classic Auto Insurance company there is no vehicle age limitations. Some collectible insurance companies do have an age limit clause added to their policies. What this means to you, the collector, is you can get the insurance coverage you need regardless of how old your classic car is.

3. Classic Auto Insurance you can insure all kinds of collectible cars. Many collectors have several cars to insure. If you own any of the following cars: antiques, street rods, racecar's, replicas, you may have special car insurance needs. The good news is if you do have a special need, Classic Auto Insurance can find the right coverage and policy for you.(carjunky.com)

Classic Auto Insurance

car_Classic_Auto

What a different Classic Auto Insurance :

1. Classic Auto Insurance has different mileage plans. These plans include the 1,000, 3,000, and 5,000 miles per year programs. Your policy will reflect the number of miles that you drive your classic car.

2. At the Classic Auto Insurance company there is no vehicle age limitations. Some collectible insurance companies do have an age limit clause added to their policies. What this means to you, the collector, is you can get the insurance coverage you need regardless of how old your classic car is.

3. Classic Auto Insurance you can insure all kinds of collectible cars. Many collectors have several cars to insure. If you own any of the following cars: antiques, street rods, racecar's, replicas, you may have special car insurance needs. The good news is if you do have a special need, Classic Auto Insurance can find the right coverage and policy for you.(carjunky.com)

Thursday, May 15, 2008

Auto Insurance Quote

Tips to Search for an Auto Insurance Policy

hot_asian-girls-sexy-women

By:Kelly
When you are searching for auto insurance quote you should do some analysis. It will help you to find out what kind of car insurance quote will be require for your vehicle. The coverage and the policies may vary from different states. Not all states need the same levels of insurance. So do your research accordingly your vehicle need and your budget and the state you are in.

When you search for the best possible car insurance quote, take in to account some factors. There are certain things which you should keep in mind like registration number and state where you registered your car, condition of your vehicle. If you want to do complete analysis, take help of online information. There are many sites which are providing through information about quote, policies and coverage.

While searching you should take consideration of various companies in the market and their policies. These companies decide your premiums only on risk factor. Insurance companies do search about your car and mark the risk factor associated with your car. They have various records with them. These companies keeps record of every insurance paid. They keep record of many thing such as car model, coverage amount, gender and age of driver, license number etc.

Auto Insurance Quote

Tips to Search for an Auto Insurance Policy

hot_asian-girls-sexy-women

By:Kelly
When you are searching for auto insurance quote you should do some analysis. It will help you to find out what kind of car insurance quote will be require for your vehicle. The coverage and the policies may vary from different states. Not all states need the same levels of insurance. So do your research accordingly your vehicle need and your budget and the state you are in.

When you search for the best possible car insurance quote, take in to account some factors. There are certain things which you should keep in mind like registration number and state where you registered your car, condition of your vehicle. If you want to do complete analysis, take help of online information. There are many sites which are providing through information about quote, policies and coverage.

While searching you should take consideration of various companies in the market and their policies. These companies decide your premiums only on risk factor. Insurance companies do search about your car and mark the risk factor associated with your car. They have various records with them. These companies keeps record of every insurance paid. They keep record of many thing such as car model, coverage amount, gender and age of driver, license number etc.

Car Insurance Tips This Summer

Five Ways to Cut Auto Insurance Costs this Summer

car_insurance_smart-sexy-girls

With gas prices expected to remain high this summer, it makes sense to save as much as possible on other vehicle-related expenses, such as insurance.

You may feel the insurance company has all the power when it comes to setting your rates, but the truth is you’re the one in the driver’s seat.

Insurance is one of the easiest vehicle-related expenses to control,” says Stephen Semprevivo, president of LowerMyBills.com, a free online resource for consumers to compare low rates on monthly bills and reduce the cost of living.

“From how and what you drive to the type of plan you choose, you control a lot of the factors that dictate your insurance costs.”

Here are five steps you can take to curb insurance costs this summer:

1. Comparison Shop

Prices can vary widely from company to company, so it pays to shop around for the best policy deal. Remember, though, that the cheapest deal isn’t necessarily the best. Look for a combination of good coverage and a good rate. A cheap rate isn’t worth much if the policy doesn’t meet your coverage needs.

Thanks to the Internet, it’s easier than ever to comparison shop across a range of companies. Web sites like LowerMyBills.com allow you to quickly and easily get information and compare car insurance carriers.

While any time is a good time to comparison shop for a better insurance rate, it’s particularly important to do so when you experience a major life change. Life events such as marriage or divorce, adding a child or driver, relocating or purchasing a new car can impact the insurance rate you may qualify for.
read more on carjunky

Car Insurance Tips This Summer

Five Ways to Cut Auto Insurance Costs this Summer

car_insurance_smart-sexy-girls

With gas prices expected to remain high this summer, it makes sense to save as much as possible on other vehicle-related expenses, such as insurance.

You may feel the insurance company has all the power when it comes to setting your rates, but the truth is you’re the one in the driver’s seat.

Insurance is one of the easiest vehicle-related expenses to control,” says Stephen Semprevivo, president of LowerMyBills.com, a free online resource for consumers to compare low rates on monthly bills and reduce the cost of living.

“From how and what you drive to the type of plan you choose, you control a lot of the factors that dictate your insurance costs.”

Here are five steps you can take to curb insurance costs this summer:

1. Comparison Shop

Prices can vary widely from company to company, so it pays to shop around for the best policy deal. Remember, though, that the cheapest deal isn’t necessarily the best. Look for a combination of good coverage and a good rate. A cheap rate isn’t worth much if the policy doesn’t meet your coverage needs.

Thanks to the Internet, it’s easier than ever to comparison shop across a range of companies. Web sites like LowerMyBills.com allow you to quickly and easily get information and compare car insurance carriers.

While any time is a good time to comparison shop for a better insurance rate, it’s particularly important to do so when you experience a major life change. Life events such as marriage or divorce, adding a child or driver, relocating or purchasing a new car can impact the insurance rate you may qualify for.
read more on carjunky

Saturday, May 3, 2008

MacAUTO Loan will increase university’s auto program

sexy-asian-girls

Hamilton, Ontario – A new research institute has been established at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario to coordinate its increasing involvement in the automotive sector. The McMaster Institute for Automotive Research and Technology, or MacAUTO, brings together more than 75 researchers in engineering, science, business and other faculties involved in automotive-related research, and involves collaboration with more than 30 private and public sector organizations.

“Better coordinating our efforts across disciplines will lead to new ideas and better solutions for the automotive industry,” said Mo Elbestawi, vice-president of research and international affairs at McMaster. “It will also make it easier for organizations to access our pool of highly-qualified researchers and leading-edge facilities to advance a vital industry sector in Ontario and worldwide.”

Recent initiatives have added the General Motors of Canada Centre for Automotive Materials and Corrosion, the joint Initiative for Automotive Manufacturing Innovation with the University of Waterloo, and the General Motors of Canada Centre for Engineering Design.

“We are positioned to make significant contributions to the next generation of automobiles and how they impact society,” said David Wilkinson, dean of the Faculty of Engineering at McMaster. “We are also developing the expertise that will move these advancements forward in the future.”
read this autonews from the source

MacAUTO Loan will increase university’s auto program

sexy-asian-girls

Hamilton, Ontario – A new research institute has been established at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario to coordinate its increasing involvement in the automotive sector. The McMaster Institute for Automotive Research and Technology, or MacAUTO, brings together more than 75 researchers in engineering, science, business and other faculties involved in automotive-related research, and involves collaboration with more than 30 private and public sector organizations.

“Better coordinating our efforts across disciplines will lead to new ideas and better solutions for the automotive industry,” said Mo Elbestawi, vice-president of research and international affairs at McMaster. “It will also make it easier for organizations to access our pool of highly-qualified researchers and leading-edge facilities to advance a vital industry sector in Ontario and worldwide.”

Recent initiatives have added the General Motors of Canada Centre for Automotive Materials and Corrosion, the joint Initiative for Automotive Manufacturing Innovation with the University of Waterloo, and the General Motors of Canada Centre for Engineering Design.

“We are positioned to make significant contributions to the next generation of automobiles and how they impact society,” said David Wilkinson, dean of the Faculty of Engineering at McMaster. “We are also developing the expertise that will move these advancements forward in the future.”
read this autonews from the source

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Tune Up your Car Insurance as Well as your Car

Tune Up your CarIf you’re a motoring enthusiast, a new piece of kit for your much-loved vehicle is difficult to resist – however, unless you’re careful it could invalidate your car insurance claims.

In January this year, Ford’s RS tuning firm announced it had teamed up with Mountune Performance to offer two new exciting pieces of kit for the Fiesta ST.

The Stage 1 kit (priced at £1,435 plus fitting) includes an engine tweak to produce 162bhp, a new air-induction and exhaust. Stage 2 meanwhile (priced at £1,838 plus fitting) includes the same upgrades but takes the power to 182bhp and includes new camshafts and valve springs.

The only downside is that on top of the price for the kit, these optional extras could bump up the price of your car insurance.

Your chances of gaining cheap car insurance if your car has ‘go-faster stripes’ are greatly reduced because insurers look unfavourably on vehicle modifications seeing them as a hallmark of ‘boy racers’ rather than safe and considerate drivers.

The solution is not to keep your insurer out of the loop, either. If you’ve made a modification to your car and not informed your insurer, then, should an accident occur, your claim could be invalidated.

Insurers demand honesty – your premiums are based on risk factors such as where you live, your driving record and the type of car you drive.

Altering your car alters your insurance. However, that doesn’t mean you have to sit on an inflated quote.

By shopping around for cheap car insurance using a car insurance comparison tool you can make significant savings. So if, after modifications, you’re not happy with what your insurer offers, look for a better deal. Search by manufacturer, such as Ford car insurance, and your savings could be enough to afford a new piece of kit!
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/insurance-articles/

Tune Up your Car Insurance as Well as your Car

Tune Up your CarIf you’re a motoring enthusiast, a new piece of kit for your much-loved vehicle is difficult to resist – however, unless you’re careful it could invalidate your car insurance claims.

In January this year, Ford’s RS tuning firm announced it had teamed up with Mountune Performance to offer two new exciting pieces of kit for the Fiesta ST.

The Stage 1 kit (priced at £1,435 plus fitting) includes an engine tweak to produce 162bhp, a new air-induction and exhaust. Stage 2 meanwhile (priced at £1,838 plus fitting) includes the same upgrades but takes the power to 182bhp and includes new camshafts and valve springs.

The only downside is that on top of the price for the kit, these optional extras could bump up the price of your car insurance.

Your chances of gaining cheap car insurance if your car has ‘go-faster stripes’ are greatly reduced because insurers look unfavourably on vehicle modifications seeing them as a hallmark of ‘boy racers’ rather than safe and considerate drivers.

The solution is not to keep your insurer out of the loop, either. If you’ve made a modification to your car and not informed your insurer, then, should an accident occur, your claim could be invalidated.

Insurers demand honesty – your premiums are based on risk factors such as where you live, your driving record and the type of car you drive.

Altering your car alters your insurance. However, that doesn’t mean you have to sit on an inflated quote.

By shopping around for cheap car insurance using a car insurance comparison tool you can make significant savings. So if, after modifications, you’re not happy with what your insurer offers, look for a better deal. Search by manufacturer, such as Ford car insurance, and your savings could be enough to afford a new piece of kit!
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/insurance-articles/

Monday, February 25, 2008

Get Online Insurance Quote

buford insurance company

why we need insurance ? find the answer here

you can find the top qoute about insurance from many insurance companies as online.make sure you try it first before you sign your insurance aplication.so,you can handle your answer eassy because you got ready before.

Get Online Insurance Quote

buford insurance company

why we need insurance ? find the answer here

you can find the top qoute about insurance from many insurance companies as online.make sure you try it first before you sign your insurance aplication.so,you can handle your answer eassy because you got ready before.

Top 15 Auto Insurance Companies Listing

auto_insurance_company


Top 10 Auto Insurance Companies Listing


  1. 21st Century Auto Insurance
  2. AARP Auto Insurance
  3. Allstate Auto Insurance
  4. American Family Auto Insurance
  5. Eastwood Auto Insurance
  6. Farmers Auto Insurance
  7. GMAC Auto Insurance
  8. Hartford Auto Insurance
  9. Infinity Auto Insurance
  10. Mercury Auto Insurance
  11. Nationwide Auto Insurance
  12. Progressive Auto Insurance
  13. Titan Auto Insurance
  14. Travelers Auto Insurance
  15. USAA Auto Insurance

Top 15 Auto Insurance Companies Listing

auto_insurance_company


Top 10 Auto Insurance Companies Listing


  1. 21st Century Auto Insurance
  2. AARP Auto Insurance
  3. Allstate Auto Insurance
  4. American Family Auto Insurance
  5. Eastwood Auto Insurance
  6. Farmers Auto Insurance
  7. GMAC Auto Insurance
  8. Hartford Auto Insurance
  9. Infinity Auto Insurance
  10. Mercury Auto Insurance
  11. Nationwide Auto Insurance
  12. Progressive Auto Insurance
  13. Titan Auto Insurance
  14. Travelers Auto Insurance
  15. USAA Auto Insurance

Friday, February 15, 2008

Hish Risk Drivers

hight risk driverHish Risk Drivers

Insurance companies have a definition of the term "high risk" driver. A "high risk" driver is a category of drivers who do not meet the eligibility requirements established preferred auto insurance companies. Auto accidents, multiple tickets (speeding and/or reckless driving) or serious offenses like DUI on your driving record signify to the auto insurance company that you are a high risk to insure. Additional risk factors include your credit history, lack of continuous auto insurance coverage, and personal profile.

If you have been involved in several accidents or have had multiple speeding tickets within two to three years, these incidents will negatively affect your record even if they were not at fault in the accidents. You can also be labeled a "high risk" driver just by the number of speeding tickets you have received. If you are designated a "high risk" driver, there are several steps you can take.

Get out of the "high risk" category

This seems like common sense, but unless you want to continue paying higher auto insurance premiums, you must work toward getting yourself reclassified. Most insurance companies only consider the last three years of your driving record to determine your status and premium. Avoid congested areas whenever possible, and be sure to slow down in reduced speed zones. You need to be aware of your surroundings and never speed, and you will be on your way to a successful reduction in your rates. It also helps to drive a domestic vehicle. If you are driving a sports car or luxury vehicle, you are paying much more than someone who drives a family sedan or compact hatchback plus adding on your high risk premium. Consider what you drive and how it relates to your auto insurance premiums.

"High risk" auto insurance coverage

Some insurance agents specialize in offering policies to those with active driving records and/or sports car enthusiasts. However, you should expect to pay much premiums to match your "high risk" status. Statistics have demonstrated that insurance companies lose more money insuring people with bad driving records or sports cars for the higher coverage pay outs. Be upfront with your insurance agent about your driving record. The agencies that work with "high risk" drivers know how to find you the best deal for what car insurance is available to you. Also compare as many quotes as you can, each insurance company will view your driving record differently.

State assigned risk

Even if the high risk insurance agents will not write you a policy, every state has some kind of program that helps the"High risk" drivers get insured by entering the states shared pool. Your "High risk" status is "shared" among all the auto insurance companies in this pooled market. If you are forced to buy auto insurance from the shared pool, the premiums are much higher than standard car insurance premiums and it typically covers only liability insurance. You must meet the laws requirement of having liability insurance. If you cannot find an insurance agent who can work with you through the state pooled market, each state has an insurance commission that can provide information.

Hish Risk Drivers

hight risk driverHish Risk Drivers

Insurance companies have a definition of the term "high risk" driver. A "high risk" driver is a category of drivers who do not meet the eligibility requirements established preferred auto insurance companies. Auto accidents, multiple tickets (speeding and/or reckless driving) or serious offenses like DUI on your driving record signify to the auto insurance company that you are a high risk to insure. Additional risk factors include your credit history, lack of continuous auto insurance coverage, and personal profile.

If you have been involved in several accidents or have had multiple speeding tickets within two to three years, these incidents will negatively affect your record even if they were not at fault in the accidents. You can also be labeled a "high risk" driver just by the number of speeding tickets you have received. If you are designated a "high risk" driver, there are several steps you can take.

Get out of the "high risk" category

This seems like common sense, but unless you want to continue paying higher auto insurance premiums, you must work toward getting yourself reclassified. Most insurance companies only consider the last three years of your driving record to determine your status and premium. Avoid congested areas whenever possible, and be sure to slow down in reduced speed zones. You need to be aware of your surroundings and never speed, and you will be on your way to a successful reduction in your rates. It also helps to drive a domestic vehicle. If you are driving a sports car or luxury vehicle, you are paying much more than someone who drives a family sedan or compact hatchback plus adding on your high risk premium. Consider what you drive and how it relates to your auto insurance premiums.

"High risk" auto insurance coverage

Some insurance agents specialize in offering policies to those with active driving records and/or sports car enthusiasts. However, you should expect to pay much premiums to match your "high risk" status. Statistics have demonstrated that insurance companies lose more money insuring people with bad driving records or sports cars for the higher coverage pay outs. Be upfront with your insurance agent about your driving record. The agencies that work with "high risk" drivers know how to find you the best deal for what car insurance is available to you. Also compare as many quotes as you can, each insurance company will view your driving record differently.

State assigned risk

Even if the high risk insurance agents will not write you a policy, every state has some kind of program that helps the"High risk" drivers get insured by entering the states shared pool. Your "High risk" status is "shared" among all the auto insurance companies in this pooled market. If you are forced to buy auto insurance from the shared pool, the premiums are much higher than standard car insurance premiums and it typically covers only liability insurance. You must meet the laws requirement of having liability insurance. If you cannot find an insurance agent who can work with you through the state pooled market, each state has an insurance commission that can provide information.

Your 5-minute guide to car insurance

Here's some basic advice, plus 22 tips to help you protect yourself and get the best value for the money you spend on automobile coverage.

Your car insurance rates are based on a few factors you can't readily change -- your sex, age, marital status and where you live -- and many that you can -- your credit scores, what you drive, how well you drive and how much coverage you buy.

Here's how to get the best deal.

First, let's review the basics. Details vary from state to state. (See "Shopping for auto insurance.")

* Liability insurance pays for injuries and property damage caused by a crash if an insurance adjuster determines you were at fault. It does not cover your injuries or those of other people on your policy, or damage to your vehicle. State minimum requirements provide inadequate protection. Buy no less than $100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident and $50,000 for property damage, or no less than $300,000 if your policy has a single limit. You are personally liable for claims that exceed your coverage, so buy even more if you can, and consider an umbrella policy.

* Uninsured/underinsured motorist protection covers injuries to the occupants of your car -- and property damage in some states -- if the other driver has no insurance or too little.

* Collision insurance pays for damage to your vehicle in an accident. If your car is totaled, you'll get what the insurer considers the pre-crash market value of your car, minus your deductible. To get a general idea of what that may be, check the Kelley Blue Book private-party price or visit the Web site of the National Automobile Dealers Association. You can pay extra for replacement-cost coverage for newer cars.

* Comprehensive insurance covers theft of your vehicle and noncollision damage to your car, as well as animal collisions. You may be eligible for lower rates if your vehicle has anti-theft and tracking devices.

* Medical or personal-injury protection provides coverage for you and your passengers, regardless of fault. You may not need this insurance if you have good health insurance.

* Twelve states have no-fault insurance, which generally covers the insured person's injuries and property damage no matter who is at fault.

* Consider gap insurance if you owe more on your car than it's worth.

Reduce your rates
The company you select and the coverage you buy can greatly reduce your rates.

* Shop around. Check rates online at InsWeb.com, call companies, and consult an agent through the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America. Rates vary greatly depending on a company's operating expenses, history of claims and formulas for setting premiums. Check a company's financial status and consumer record. The last thing you need is to go cheap and then find it's all but impossible to file a claim.

* Increase your deductibles on comprehensive and collision coverage to an amount you can cover out of pocket.

* Consider dropping both if you own your vehicle outright and the combined annual cost for that coverage is more than 10% of what you would get if you car were totaled. (See "Dump the insurance on your clunker.")

* Ask your insurer about all available special discounts.

* If you're switching insurance companies, do it in writing. Your credit scores will suffer if you're canceled for nonpayment.

Control yourself
Your behavior on and off the road has a bearing on your rates.

* Pay all bills on time. Your premiums are based in part on your credit scores or an insurance risk score based on your credit reports. (See "The new math of car insurance.") TransUnion's TrueCredit will provide your auto insurance risk score for $9.95.

* Drive defensively, and avoid distractions such as text messaging or talking on a cell phone. One speeding ticket may not raise your rates, but an accident you caused probably would -- generally by 40% of the company's base rate.

* Don't drink and drive. (See "DUI: The $10,000 ride home.")

* Don't lend out your car. If your friend wrecks it, your rates will go up. If your uninsured friend wrecks your car, you'll be liable for claims exceeding your policy.

The type of vehicle you drive affects your rates.

* Check the cost of insuring that sports car before you buy it. You'll pay higher premiums for a vehicle with higher collision-damage costs or that's attractive to thieves. Use MSN Money's comparison tool. And no, it doesn't cost more to insure a red car.

* High-tech items are more expensive to replace after a crash. (See "High-tech cars mean high-priced repairs.")

The deal on discounts
Factors such as age, how much you drive, where you live and, sometimes, what you do for a living affect insurance premiums. You can take some steps to get a better rate.

* If you get married, you'll get a discount and benefit from combining policies. (See "Paying too much for car insurance?")

* People 55 and older get a discount for taking a driving class.

* Adding your newly licensed teen to your policy will increase your premiums 50% to 200%. One way to reduce costs: Buy a beater and list your child as the driver. Teen drivers can get discounts for drivers ed courses or good grades. (See "Cut the cost of insuring your teen driver.")

* You may get a discount if your child attends college away from home.

If you wreck your car
If you've been in a collision, tell your insurance company for your own protection, even if injuries are not readily apparent. Informing the company doesn't mean you're filing a claim.

* If you disagree with the value assigned to your totaled vehicle, provide quotes from local dealers and proof that your vehicle was well-maintained. (See "12 secrets your car insurer won't tell you.") Still unsatisfied? Your options are mediation, arbitration and, finally, a lawsuit.

* Twenty-eight states require insurance companies to pay the sales tax on a replacement vehicle, based on the settlement value of your totaled car. Request it, as well as registration and title fees, wherever you live.

* In 14 states you can get payment for the "diminished value" of your damaged car.

* If the driver at fault in a crash is uninsured, consider "stacking" or collecting on all of your policies that have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to fully cover the damage, unless state law prohibits it.

* Body shops may be tempted to cut corners to meet insurance companies' pricing requirements. Check Assured Performance Collision Care for qualified repair shops. (See "7 things auto-body shops won't tell you.")

* If you cause an accident, does your policy require you to pay the difference between generic and original-equipment manufacturer parts? If someone else caused the accident, request original-equipment parts for your repairs.

source

Your 5-minute guide to car insurance

Here's some basic advice, plus 22 tips to help you protect yourself and get the best value for the money you spend on automobile coverage.

Your car insurance rates are based on a few factors you can't readily change -- your sex, age, marital status and where you live -- and many that you can -- your credit scores, what you drive, how well you drive and how much coverage you buy.

Here's how to get the best deal.

First, let's review the basics. Details vary from state to state. (See "Shopping for auto insurance.")

* Liability insurance pays for injuries and property damage caused by a crash if an insurance adjuster determines you were at fault. It does not cover your injuries or those of other people on your policy, or damage to your vehicle. State minimum requirements provide inadequate protection. Buy no less than $100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident and $50,000 for property damage, or no less than $300,000 if your policy has a single limit. You are personally liable for claims that exceed your coverage, so buy even more if you can, and consider an umbrella policy.

* Uninsured/underinsured motorist protection covers injuries to the occupants of your car -- and property damage in some states -- if the other driver has no insurance or too little.

* Collision insurance pays for damage to your vehicle in an accident. If your car is totaled, you'll get what the insurer considers the pre-crash market value of your car, minus your deductible. To get a general idea of what that may be, check the Kelley Blue Book private-party price or visit the Web site of the National Automobile Dealers Association. You can pay extra for replacement-cost coverage for newer cars.

* Comprehensive insurance covers theft of your vehicle and noncollision damage to your car, as well as animal collisions. You may be eligible for lower rates if your vehicle has anti-theft and tracking devices.

* Medical or personal-injury protection provides coverage for you and your passengers, regardless of fault. You may not need this insurance if you have good health insurance.

* Twelve states have no-fault insurance, which generally covers the insured person's injuries and property damage no matter who is at fault.

* Consider gap insurance if you owe more on your car than it's worth.

Reduce your rates
The company you select and the coverage you buy can greatly reduce your rates.

* Shop around. Check rates online at InsWeb.com, call companies, and consult an agent through the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America. Rates vary greatly depending on a company's operating expenses, history of claims and formulas for setting premiums. Check a company's financial status and consumer record. The last thing you need is to go cheap and then find it's all but impossible to file a claim.

* Increase your deductibles on comprehensive and collision coverage to an amount you can cover out of pocket.

* Consider dropping both if you own your vehicle outright and the combined annual cost for that coverage is more than 10% of what you would get if you car were totaled. (See "Dump the insurance on your clunker.")

* Ask your insurer about all available special discounts.

* If you're switching insurance companies, do it in writing. Your credit scores will suffer if you're canceled for nonpayment.

Control yourself
Your behavior on and off the road has a bearing on your rates.

* Pay all bills on time. Your premiums are based in part on your credit scores or an insurance risk score based on your credit reports. (See "The new math of car insurance.") TransUnion's TrueCredit will provide your auto insurance risk score for $9.95.

* Drive defensively, and avoid distractions such as text messaging or talking on a cell phone. One speeding ticket may not raise your rates, but an accident you caused probably would -- generally by 40% of the company's base rate.

* Don't drink and drive. (See "DUI: The $10,000 ride home.")

* Don't lend out your car. If your friend wrecks it, your rates will go up. If your uninsured friend wrecks your car, you'll be liable for claims exceeding your policy.

The type of vehicle you drive affects your rates.

* Check the cost of insuring that sports car before you buy it. You'll pay higher premiums for a vehicle with higher collision-damage costs or that's attractive to thieves. Use MSN Money's comparison tool. And no, it doesn't cost more to insure a red car.

* High-tech items are more expensive to replace after a crash. (See "High-tech cars mean high-priced repairs.")

The deal on discounts
Factors such as age, how much you drive, where you live and, sometimes, what you do for a living affect insurance premiums. You can take some steps to get a better rate.

* If you get married, you'll get a discount and benefit from combining policies. (See "Paying too much for car insurance?")

* People 55 and older get a discount for taking a driving class.

* Adding your newly licensed teen to your policy will increase your premiums 50% to 200%. One way to reduce costs: Buy a beater and list your child as the driver. Teen drivers can get discounts for drivers ed courses or good grades. (See "Cut the cost of insuring your teen driver.")

* You may get a discount if your child attends college away from home.

If you wreck your car
If you've been in a collision, tell your insurance company for your own protection, even if injuries are not readily apparent. Informing the company doesn't mean you're filing a claim.

* If you disagree with the value assigned to your totaled vehicle, provide quotes from local dealers and proof that your vehicle was well-maintained. (See "12 secrets your car insurer won't tell you.") Still unsatisfied? Your options are mediation, arbitration and, finally, a lawsuit.

* Twenty-eight states require insurance companies to pay the sales tax on a replacement vehicle, based on the settlement value of your totaled car. Request it, as well as registration and title fees, wherever you live.

* In 14 states you can get payment for the "diminished value" of your damaged car.

* If the driver at fault in a crash is uninsured, consider "stacking" or collecting on all of your policies that have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to fully cover the damage, unless state law prohibits it.

* Body shops may be tempted to cut corners to meet insurance companies' pricing requirements. Check Assured Performance Collision Care for qualified repair shops. (See "7 things auto-body shops won't tell you.")

* If you cause an accident, does your policy require you to pay the difference between generic and original-equipment manufacturer parts? If someone else caused the accident, request original-equipment parts for your repairs.

source

5 ways to get auto insurance discounts

Some companies will cut your bill if you're an engineer or a teacher. Multi-vehicle and Web discounts are available, too, if you shop a little.

just when you thought you'd taken advantage of every discount and shrunk your auto insurance premium to its tiniest, auto insurers are offering more ways to make your bill smaller, and all you have to do is be yourself.

Almost every insurance company gives you a discount if you've had no accidents or tickets in the last three to five years, or if you buy a homeowners or renters insurance policy with the same company (multiline discount), insure more than one car on your auto insurance policy (multivehicle discount), or own a car that is equipped with air bags. But some companies will also reward you for your profession, your age, and using the Internet.

That college degree is worth something

21st Century Group has found that drivers with degrees in engineering are lower risks than other drivers. If you have a bachelor's degree in any number of engineering or science-related fields — biochemistry, mathematics, or mechanical engineering, for example — you can get a discount on your auto insurance premium if you buy from them.

21st Century sells auto insurance in Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, and offers the "engineering and scientist" discount in all of those states. If you're a scientist or an engineer with a good driving record, you can save between 10 and 30 percent on the company's base rate, according to Ric Hill, vice president of corporate relations.

A base rate is the average amount of claims paid plus the insurance company's claims-processing fee. For example, if the company's base rate is $400, you could save between $40 and $120.

"Our company's founder saw that educators, scientists, and engineers have lots of characteristics that seem to show that they're the best drivers," says Hill. "Engineers, for example, being accustomed to dealing with fine details, are somewhat meticulous, which means they take good care of their automobiles." 21st Century found that the same holds true for teachers and other scientists.

Teachers deserve a break

Horace Mann Insurance Co. (which sells auto insurance in every state except Hawaii and New Jersey) offers discounts to teachers who belong to state education associations or the National Education Association (NEA). Horace Mann's discounts start at around 8 percent, and are based on the assumptions the company has about teachers: They have a stable occupation, stable employment, and they understand they are under scrutiny by the community.

The discounts are available through Horace Mann or one of its two subsidiaries — Allegiance Insurance Co. or Teachers Insurance Co. In addition to Hawaii, New Jersey, and New York, the discounts are not available in Georgia, Mississippi, Texas, and Washington D.C.

The discount program for teachers who are state association or NEA members started about 15 years ago. Although the auto insurance discounts aren't enough to cover annual association dues, Horace Mann estimates that the average household (two cars) and the average insurance discount will pay for about 50 percent of an association's average dues.

21st Century also offers teachers a break on car insurance premiums, but only if you're certified by the State of California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, or if you are a full-time college or university professor. Savings for this program range from 10 percent to 30 percent on the company's base rate.

Save all you can save in the Army

GEICO offers a 2 percent to 15 percent discount to active and retired members of the military. The military discount is available in all states except Georgia, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New Mexico, Tennessee, and Texas. GEICO, which stands for, Government Employees Insurance COrporation, has always taken pride in serving U.S. military personnel and their families.

Another benefit of buying your auto insurance with GEICO if you're in the military is your ability to drop all coverages but comprehensive if you're shipped overseas. "Most armed service personnel will put their vehicles in storage and we allow them to drop their liability and other coverages while they're out of the country," says Richard Kidd, a retired Sgt. Mjr. of the Army and assistant vice president for military services at GEICO. Additionally, if Uncle Sam sends you to a country in which the government offers hostile-fire pay, GEICO will knock 25 percent off your comprehensive bill while your car is in storage.

Drive toward the discounts in your golden years

Remember when a nickel was worth a dime? If so, you're probably eligible for some deep discounts on your auto insurance. The Hartford's AARP Auto Insurance Program offers AARP members the chance to chop their auto insurance bills by as much as 45 percent.

The AARP program offers drivers a 20 to 25 percent (up to $300 per year) discount for insuring multiple cars on one policy, a 10 percent discount for holding both a homeowners and auto insurance policy with The Hartford, and 5 percent savings for staying with the company for more than five years and not having any violations on your driving record.

The Hartford also guarantees that drivers who buy auto insurance through the AARP program will never have their policies canceled except for nonpayment of premium, DUI conviction, or loss of license.

Have Internet, can save

Eligible drivers can save up to 10% on certain MetLife Auto policy coverages when they successfully complete courses, such as one offered by the National Safety Council (NSC).

As a MetLife Auto & Home customer, you can purchase the NSC Driver Safety Course Kit, which includes a 54-minute training video or CD-ROM, a workbook, and an open-book test answer sheet, plus processing. Or, you can take the entire course and exam on the Internet for the same total cost, about $34.95, without ever leaving home. These VHS, CD-ROM and Internet home study Driver Safety Courses are adapted from NSC’s Defensive Driving Courses, arguably the world’s standard of excellence in driver improvement.

Other eligible drivers in your household, on your MetLife Auto policy, can also earn the discount by ordering additional certification workbooks and by successfully completing the course.

source

5 ways to get auto insurance discounts

Some companies will cut your bill if you're an engineer or a teacher. Multi-vehicle and Web discounts are available, too, if you shop a little.

just when you thought you'd taken advantage of every discount and shrunk your auto insurance premium to its tiniest, auto insurers are offering more ways to make your bill smaller, and all you have to do is be yourself.

Almost every insurance company gives you a discount if you've had no accidents or tickets in the last three to five years, or if you buy a homeowners or renters insurance policy with the same company (multiline discount), insure more than one car on your auto insurance policy (multivehicle discount), or own a car that is equipped with air bags. But some companies will also reward you for your profession, your age, and using the Internet.

That college degree is worth something

21st Century Group has found that drivers with degrees in engineering are lower risks than other drivers. If you have a bachelor's degree in any number of engineering or science-related fields — biochemistry, mathematics, or mechanical engineering, for example — you can get a discount on your auto insurance premium if you buy from them.

21st Century sells auto insurance in Arizona, California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington, and offers the "engineering and scientist" discount in all of those states. If you're a scientist or an engineer with a good driving record, you can save between 10 and 30 percent on the company's base rate, according to Ric Hill, vice president of corporate relations.

A base rate is the average amount of claims paid plus the insurance company's claims-processing fee. For example, if the company's base rate is $400, you could save between $40 and $120.

"Our company's founder saw that educators, scientists, and engineers have lots of characteristics that seem to show that they're the best drivers," says Hill. "Engineers, for example, being accustomed to dealing with fine details, are somewhat meticulous, which means they take good care of their automobiles." 21st Century found that the same holds true for teachers and other scientists.

Teachers deserve a break

Horace Mann Insurance Co. (which sells auto insurance in every state except Hawaii and New Jersey) offers discounts to teachers who belong to state education associations or the National Education Association (NEA). Horace Mann's discounts start at around 8 percent, and are based on the assumptions the company has about teachers: They have a stable occupation, stable employment, and they understand they are under scrutiny by the community.

The discounts are available through Horace Mann or one of its two subsidiaries — Allegiance Insurance Co. or Teachers Insurance Co. In addition to Hawaii, New Jersey, and New York, the discounts are not available in Georgia, Mississippi, Texas, and Washington D.C.

The discount program for teachers who are state association or NEA members started about 15 years ago. Although the auto insurance discounts aren't enough to cover annual association dues, Horace Mann estimates that the average household (two cars) and the average insurance discount will pay for about 50 percent of an association's average dues.

21st Century also offers teachers a break on car insurance premiums, but only if you're certified by the State of California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, or if you are a full-time college or university professor. Savings for this program range from 10 percent to 30 percent on the company's base rate.

Save all you can save in the Army

GEICO offers a 2 percent to 15 percent discount to active and retired members of the military. The military discount is available in all states except Georgia, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New Mexico, Tennessee, and Texas. GEICO, which stands for, Government Employees Insurance COrporation, has always taken pride in serving U.S. military personnel and their families.

Another benefit of buying your auto insurance with GEICO if you're in the military is your ability to drop all coverages but comprehensive if you're shipped overseas. "Most armed service personnel will put their vehicles in storage and we allow them to drop their liability and other coverages while they're out of the country," says Richard Kidd, a retired Sgt. Mjr. of the Army and assistant vice president for military services at GEICO. Additionally, if Uncle Sam sends you to a country in which the government offers hostile-fire pay, GEICO will knock 25 percent off your comprehensive bill while your car is in storage.

Drive toward the discounts in your golden years

Remember when a nickel was worth a dime? If so, you're probably eligible for some deep discounts on your auto insurance. The Hartford's AARP Auto Insurance Program offers AARP members the chance to chop their auto insurance bills by as much as 45 percent.

The AARP program offers drivers a 20 to 25 percent (up to $300 per year) discount for insuring multiple cars on one policy, a 10 percent discount for holding both a homeowners and auto insurance policy with The Hartford, and 5 percent savings for staying with the company for more than five years and not having any violations on your driving record.

The Hartford also guarantees that drivers who buy auto insurance through the AARP program will never have their policies canceled except for nonpayment of premium, DUI conviction, or loss of license.

Have Internet, can save

Eligible drivers can save up to 10% on certain MetLife Auto policy coverages when they successfully complete courses, such as one offered by the National Safety Council (NSC).

As a MetLife Auto & Home customer, you can purchase the NSC Driver Safety Course Kit, which includes a 54-minute training video or CD-ROM, a workbook, and an open-book test answer sheet, plus processing. Or, you can take the entire course and exam on the Internet for the same total cost, about $34.95, without ever leaving home. These VHS, CD-ROM and Internet home study Driver Safety Courses are adapted from NSC’s Defensive Driving Courses, arguably the world’s standard of excellence in driver improvement.

Other eligible drivers in your household, on your MetLife Auto policy, can also earn the discount by ordering additional certification workbooks and by successfully completing the course.

source