Having a substantial knowledge of what to look out for when purchasing a car for the first time is essential. We all know that owning a car gives a sense of relief and freedom. Notwithstanding, there are endless possibilities attached to getting a car insurance for the first time. Hence, we have taken the time to enlighten you on tips to consider for first-time car insurance buyers.
It may seem like a daunting task to purchase car insurance for the first time, but we assure you that the process is relatively easy. You can get the right auto insurance policy if you are exposed to a wide range of valuable information.
Factors That Determine the Price of Car Insurance
Highlighted below are factors that influence the price of car insurance for first-time buyers:
- Age
- Gender
- Type of car
- Credit
- ZIP code
- Marital status
- Education and occupation
What are the Requirements Needed for Purchasing Car Insurance?
Before you purchase car insurance, there are certain information you will be asked to provide. This includes the information of any other driver you wish to include in your insurance policy. They include the following:
- Driver’s license numbers for all drivers on the policy.
- Date of birth for all drivers on the policy.
- Garaging address of the car or home address.
- Car identification number.
- Safe-driving courses you or any drivers on the policy have completed
- Grades for student drivers.
Those with good grades might be offered a discount; this is dependent on the insurance company you are purchasing your auto policy from.
Tips on How to Get Car Insurance for the First Time
The smartest thing for first-time car insurance buyers to do when getting car insurance for the first time is to familiarize themselves with the type of insurance they want to purchase.
There are different types of auto insurance policies, such as liability insurance, collision insurance, comprehensive insurance, and other types of coverage. Regardless of which insurance policy you’re adding to your coverage, here’s what you need to consider before getting car insurance:
• Determine how much coverage you need
In most states, drivers are required to carry liability insurance, and if you are taking out a car loan, you will most likely need to purchase collision and comprehensive insurance.
Aside from that, what is most important is that the type of coverage you select on your policy should align with your needs and budget. Also, note that the amount of coverage you need varies depending on your age, vehicle type, location, and miles driven.
• Compare quotes from multiple auto insurance companies
The best way to get the best rate for auto insurance is by shopping around. This would enable us to make comparisons and determine which car insurance company to work with.
It is not ideal to just settle for the first insurance company you come across. Auto insurance rates vary among insurers, so it is advisable to get more than two quotes to know which one is efficient for you.
• Ask about discounts
Asking about discounts is also a great way to save on your car insurance. Most car insurance companies offer multiple discounts that you can utilize, provided you are eligible for them. You can request information from your insurer to know which discounts you qualify for. Some car insurance discounts include, but are not limited to:
- Bundling discounts.
- Vehicle safety discounts.
- Safe driving discounts.
- Good student discount.
If you qualify for any of these discounts, rest assured that you will be able to save money when getting car insurance for the first time.
• Ask your insurance agent to set up a policy
It is possible to prepare your coverage in advance of your arrival at the dealership. Ask the agent if they can put up a policy using the details you have, such as the drivers in your household and the address where you plan to store the car, if you don’t have the Vehicle Identification Number yet.
Once you’ve made up your mind about the vehicle, give the agent your VIN to finish the process of buying auto insurance coverage.
It is essential to note that if you are getting car insurance for the first time, you are likely to pay more. Simply because it is believed you do not have driving experience. The less driving experience you have, the higher the cost of purchasing car insurance.
FAQs
How much is car insurance?
Typically, the average cost for car insurance nationwide is around $1,998. This includes coverage for liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured motorist insurance. You can get $100,000 in bodily injury liability per person and $300,000 per accident, including $100,000 in property damage liability.
It is noteworthy that the cost of car insurance largely depends on the type of policy you are purchasing and the type of risk you want to insure.
What if I get caught driving without car insurance?
It is not advisable to drive around without standard insurance in place. If you are caught driving without car insurance, there are severe consequences attached to it. You will be required to face legal penalties such as payments of fines or serving a jail term.
Worse comes to worst, your license will be revoked, and you will never get to drive again. Aside from that, if you are caught and you finally decide to get a car insurance policy, you will likely be charged higher rates.
Do I need different auto insurance if I’m going to make deliveries with my car?
Generally, you will have to contact your insurance provider in order to confirm if you will need different auto insurance for your business. If you are going to be making deliveries with your car, ensure you inform your insurance provider; they are in the best position to enlighten you on what your policy covers.
However, it is important to note that a personal auto policy does not cover vehicles used for business purposes. So, you may be required to purchase auto insurance for delivery drivers. For instance, getting a commercial auto insurance policy is the best option for those who intend to use their car for deliveries.
