Insurance and You

You will see more and more drivers on the road each year. As this number goes up, the chances of a car collision will also go up. Automobile insurance can make the difference between a small inconvenience and a large hassle. But why do you need insurance and just how much do you need? Car accidents can lead to a variety of different expenses, which can all be paid for based on the insurance policy you have purchased. Every state and province mandates automobile insurance by law. By not owning insurance, you risk having to pay the total cost of the harm you cause others or to repair or replace your car if it is damaged or stolen. Liability: Bodily injury and property damage that you have caused will be paid for under this type of insurance. Bodily injury damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Property damage can refer to damaged property and loss of property use. It can also cover your defense and court costs if you are sued. Local laws usually mandate standard amounts, but higher amounts can be purchased and are usually recommended. Personal Injury Protection: This is mandated in some states and is optional in others. Sometimes referred to as no-fault coverage, this pays the medical treatment for you or your passengers regardless of who was at fault. Local law usually sets minimum amounts. Medical Payments: Medical payment coverage is available in states that are not considered no-fault; it pays regardless of who may be responsible. If this policy has been purchased, the insured person will receive payment for necessary medical or funeral expenses. Collision: Pays for damages to your car caused by a collision. Comprehensive: Applies if your car is stolen or damaged by something other than a wreck, including fire, wind, hail, flood or vandalism. Uninsured Motorist: Pays for damages when someone with insurance is injured in a crash caused by another person who does not have liability coverage. Under-Insured Motorist: Pays for damages when an insured person is injured in a crash caused by another person who does not have enough liability insurance to cover the total cost of the damages. Other kinds of car insurance, such as emergency road service and car rental, can also be purchased. What you pay for auto insurance varies based on the company and will depend on multiple factors, such as: * What coverage you select * The type of the car you drive * Whether or not you have been in an accident * Your age, gender and marital status * Where you live Don’t wait around to buy car insurance; you shouldn’t drive a car without it. Review your needs, research your options, and with the guidance of your insurance agent, choose the option that fits you best. Homeowners Insurance Antioch CA