Guide to Auto Insurance
(For a quote on your auto insurance needs simply go to our on-line|autoequote.html)
Back in 1898 when the first U.S. automobile insurance policy was purchased, there were barely 100 cars on the streets, nationwide. Horses and carriages ruled the roads, and the main concern then for both insurers and auto drivers was any injury those noisy new machines might do to horses.
Today a motor vehicle accident occurs every second. Auto accidents cause an injury every 14 seconds, and every 13 minutes a car accident results in a fatality. More than 31 million accidents occur per year, at an annual cost of almost $100 billion. Theft and vandalism are other major perils facing drivers, In fact, every 20 seconds another vehicle is stolen.
With more than 150 million drivers and 160 million registered vehicles on the road today, auto insurance is the most widely purchased of all property-liability insurance. Drivers buy auto insurance for economic protection against theft, vandalism, and other risks, but few are familiar with the ins and outs of their particular policy.
These frequently asked questions were designed by the Independent Insurance Agents of America to make it easier for you to know your insurance needs and the many options available to you. Though these FAQ's do not represent the provisions of any particular policy, it should serve as a starting point on your road to finding the best policy for your needs.
Why do I need auto insurance?
What are the different types of policies and what do they cover?
Why and how are policies priced for different drivers?
How does where I live affect my premium?
Why are rates different for different cars, even if the cars cost the same?
What is "no-fault" insurance?
Do all states require some kind of liability insurance?
What happens if I have an accident with an uninsured driver?
Why would my insurer cancel my policy?
What do I do if my insurer cancels or refuses to renew my policy?
How do I keep my insurance company from canceling my policy?
What steps can I take to reduce my rates?
How does adding drivers to my policy affect my rates?
Who's watching the insurance companies?
Do I always need to buy insurance when I rent a car? Am I not covered by my own policy?
What happens when I loan my car to someone? Is that person covered by my policy? Am I still covered?
Am I covered for natural disasters or "Acts of God?"
What should I make sure my policy includes? Do I really need to read all the fine print?
How can I challenge my insurers if they refuse to cover a claim?
What actually happens when I report an accident?
Do I need special insurance for a classic car?
Under what circumstance do I not need certain types of auto insurance?
For a quote on your auto insurance needs simply go to our on-line Auto Quote form
