Buying Auto Insurance
For most of us, our cars are one of the
biggest investments we make, and to
experience a loss could be financially
devastating. Auto insurance can cover more
than just the repairs on your vehicle.
Depending on the coverage you choose, your
insurance can:
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Cover medical expenses associated
with an accident |
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Pay for losses caused by
underinsured or uninsured drivers |
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Reimburse you for damages suffered
because of vandalism, natural
disasters or theft |
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Pay for legal representation in case
of a lawsuit. |
Understanding Common Insurance Terms
Every auto policy offers certain coverages.
Often times the terms may be confusing to
all but insurance professionals. Here is a
quick reference guide for the terms that are
most commonly used. However, you should read
your own policy carefully. If you do not
understand any aspect of your policy, take
the time to review it with your agent.
Required Auto Coverages
Bodily Injury: If you injure someone
in a car accident, this coverage pays that
person's medical and other expenses and any
damages for which they may sue you.
Property Damage Liability: If you are
at fault in an accident and you damage
someone else's property, this coverage pays
to fix it.
Medical Benefits: This coverage pays
medical bills for you and others covered on
your policy, no matter who was at fault in
the accident.
Personal Injury Protection: An
extension of car insurance available in some
states that covers medical expenses and, in
some cases, lost wages and other damages.
PIP pays off regardless of who is at fault
and is mandatory in some states, especially
those with "no-fault" laws.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist:
If
you are injured in an accident and the
person who hits you doesn't have enough
insurance, this coverage will pay for your
losses and damages, including your medical
bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. It
usually makes sense to purchase the same
level of this coverage that you have for
bodily injury liability.
Optional Personal Auto Coverages*
Collision: This coverage will pay to
fix your car in the event of a collision.
Comprehensive: This coverage pays for
theft as well as damage to your car from
hazards, including fire, flood, vandalism or
striking an animal.
Rental Reimbursement: This coverage reimburses you
if you must rent a vehicle while your
vehicle is being repaired following an
accident.
Roadside Assistance:
This coverage reimburses you
if you must tow your vehicle following a
breakdown or accident.
Additional Personal Injury Protection:
Increases your protection over and above
the limits of the required coverage.
Additional
Auto Discounts*
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Driver Training Credit |
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Defensive Driver Discount |
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Alarm System Discount |
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Airbag/Passive Restraints Discount |
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Package Policy Discount |
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Multi-Vehicle Discount Home/Auto
Discount |
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