Advantage Auto Insurance Blog

Advantage Auto Insurance Bloghttp://www.shopautorates.com/blog/View Advantage Auto Insurance's Website Blogen-uspostmaster@www.shopautorates.comInsurance Website Builder - www.insurancewebsitebuilder.comurn:uuid:e7795056-e57a-4a11-a884-5efd3b1268d3urn:uuid:622729c6-467f-44f1-a190-221cfa397bc810 Most Expensive Cars to Insure vs. 10 Least Expensive10 Most Expensive Cars to Insure vs. 10 Least Expensive American culture attributes the car we drive to our persona -- defining our values, our sense of style, and to some extent, ...Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:32:38 -0600<h3>10 Most Expensive Cars to Insure vs. 10 Least Expensive </h3> <table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="middle"> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> American culture attributes the car we drive to our persona -- defining our values, our sense of style, and to some extent, our eccentricities. It's the reason that Corvette owners wave to each other, and why everyone feels the need to catch a look to see who's driving the Hummer. In the same manner, the car we drive also determines how much we pay for car insurance. Easily an afterthought to the monthly car loan payment, many owners are "car-broke" because of their insurance costs, and don't know it. Are you driving one of the most expensive cars to insure? <table width="100%" align="center" style="font-size: 11px;" border="0" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" style="width: 55%;">10 Most Expensive to Insure 1 Lexus IS 300 2 Land Rover Discovery Series II 3 Audi S4 4 Jaguar X-Type 5 Mercedes SLK Class 6 Lexus GS 430 7 Land Rover Freelander 8 Mitsubishi Montero 9 BMW X5 10 Toyota 4Runner </td> <td valign="top" style="width: 45%;">10 Least Expensive to Insure 1 Oldsmobile Silhouette 2 Pontiac Montana 3 Saturn L Series Sedan 4 Chrysler PT Cruiser 5 Saturn L Series Wagon 6 Chevrolet Venture 7 Chevrolet Astro 8 Saturn Vue 9 Jeep Wrangler 10 Oldsmobile Bravada </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> There are a handful of factors that determine how much a person pays for insurance, including gender, age, driving record, location of residence, annual driving mileage, credit scores (in most states), and most importantly, the car we drive. Although common-sense holds that the more expensive a car, the more expensive the insurance, this is not always the case. Insurance rates differ greatly between makes and models. If a car performs well in crash tests, it's not frequently stolen, and has additional safety or anti-theft devices, it will generally cost less to insure it. On the other hand, if your car is flashier, attractive to thieves, and doesn't wow anyone in the crash tests, it will cost more to insure. What's the Fastest You've Taken It? If you drive a high performance vehicle with more horsepower than General Washington's Army, insurance companies have no other choice but to assume that you will use it and practice riskier driving. Should you get into an accident, regardless of fault, the cost of returning your vehicle to its original condition can be extraordinary-- even for a seemingly innocuous fender bender. Bigger is Safer, But Cause More Damage Although SUVs, large trucks, and other large road warriors might be safer than compact cars in accidents, they tend to foster a more expensive liability coverage rate given the fact that they inflict more damage than most standard cars in accidents. On another note, there are still many SUVs that have inherent safety flaws in their design, specifically with rollover tests. Accordingly, insurance companies share these additional financial risks onto the driver in the form of higher premiums. Car Insurance Companies Love Family Cars Cars that are particularly associated as "family cars" tend to have lower insurance premiums. These types of cars include minivans, family sedans, and station wagons. Cars that are used primarily to transport a family are generally involved in fewer accidents, due to safer driving habits associated with those who transport family members. It Doesn't Matter Which List You're On: Don't Over-Pay for Car Insurance Insurance companies specialize in different types of financial risk and demonstrate this best in their insurance rates. Just because your insurance company affords you a wonderful rate on your homeowners insurance policy, doesn't mean they'll offer you the same deal to insure your Jeep Wrangler. Remember, the same policy can differ by hundreds of dollars from company to company, not to mention that rates are always changing. Regardless of which list your car is on, you can always get quotes to identify potential savings from a new insurance company, or any previously unrecognized discounts from your current company. Read more: <a href="http://blog.insweb.com/2007/08/10_most_expensive_cars_to_insu.html#ixzz1lF7UJDFO" style="color: #003399;">http://blog.insweb.com/2007/08/10_most_expensive_cars_to_insu.html#ixzz1lF7UJDFO</a>urn:uuid:6dd92a58-8866-4f6e-8dd2-7cf7726afc9cWhy is Auto Coverage NecessaryHow much do you have in savings and other assets? The answer, if you don't have auto insurance, is "not enough." While state law regulates required minimum liability coverage, the required amounts may not be sufficient to cover expenses associated wi...Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:54:24 -0600How much do you have in savings and other assets? The answer, if you don't have <a href="http://top-autoinsurance.blogspot.com/2008/06/auto-insurance-you-can-find-best-car.html">auto insurance</a>, is "not enough." While state law regulates required minimum liability coverage, the required amounts may not be sufficient to cover expenses associated with major auto accidents. If you don't have auto insurance, or are under insured, you could be sued for damages in addition to being cited for breaking the law. All <a href="http://top-autoinsurance.blogspot.com/2008/06/affordable-auto-insurance-whats.html">Auto Insurance</a> Companies are Rip-offs (or, I can't afford auto insurance!) Auto insurance isn't cheap, but it can be well worth the price. If you get a car loan, the lender will require you to carry full auto coverage. This protects the lender if your car is wrecked or stolen. The insurance company will pay off your car loan if you have enough coverage. If you have an auto loan, and don't have insurance, you lender can repossess your ride. Worse, if you don't have insurance, and your car is stolen or totaled, you're stuck with paying for a car you can't use. All in all, <a href="http://top-autoinsurance.blogspot.com/2008/06/auto-owners-insurance-related-guidepost.html">auto insurance</a> protects you and costs less than the consequences of driving uninsured. License, Registration, and Proof of Insurance You're pulled over by a peace officer, and are asked to present proof of insurance. If you don't have <a href="http://top-autoinsurance.blogspot.com/2008/06/car-insurance-and-home-insurance-in.html">auto insurance</a>, you risk losing your driver's license and you will get a ticket. If you're involved in an accident and don't have auto insurance, any accident victims' <a href="http://top-autoinsurance.blogspot.com/2008/06/3-ways-to-get-affordable-auto-insurance.html">insurance companies</a> may also seek reimbursement from you. You can avoid major financial and legal when you have auto insurance. urn:uuid:7465a63e-6d06-45ee-9f62-479c4fa4e098The ABCs of auto insurance What is auto insurance? Auto insurance (or car insurance, motor insurance) is insurance consumers can purchase for cars, trucks, and other vehicles. Its primary use is to provide protection against losses incurred. By buying auto insurance, depending...Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:52:37 -0600What is auto insurance? Auto insurance (or car insurance, motor insurance) is insurance consumers can purchase for cars, trucks, and other vehicles. Its primary use is to provide protection against losses incurred. By buying auto insurance, depending on the type of coverage purchased, the consumer may be protected against: * The cost of repairing the vehicle following an accident * The cost of purchasing a new vehicle if it is stolen or damaged beyond economic repair * Legal liability claims against the driver or owner of the vehicle following the vehicle causing damage or injury to a third party. Liability insurance covers only the last point, while comprehensive insurance covers all three. Even comprehensive insurance, however, doesn't fully cover the risk associated with buying a new car. Due to the sharp decline in value immediately following purchase, there is generally a period in which the remaining car payments exceed the compensation the insurer will pay for a "totaled" (destroyed, or written-off) vehicle. So-called GAP insurance was established in the early 1980's to provide protection to consumers based upon buying and market trends. The escalating price of cars, extended term auto loans, and the increasing popularity of leasing gave birth to GAP protection. GAP waivers provide protection for consumers when a "gap" exists between the actual value of their vehicle and the amount of money owed to the bank or leasing company. In some countries including New Zealand and Australia market structures mean that people are more likely to buy a nearly new car than a new car so this is less of a problem. In the United States, liability insurance covers claims against the policy holder and generally, any other operator of the insured's vehicle, provided they do not live at the same address as the policy holder and are not specifically excluded on the policy. In the case of those living at the same address, they must specifically be covered on the policy. Thus it is necessary for example, when a family member comes of driving age they must be added on to the policy. Liability insurance generally does not protect the policy holder if they operate any vehicles other than their own. When you drive a vehicle owned by another party, you are covered under that party's policy. Non-owners policies may be offered that would cover an insured on any vehicle they drive. This coverage is available only to those who do not own their own vehicle. Generally, liability coverage does extend when you rent a car. However, in most cases only liability applies. Any additional coverage, such as comprehensive policies, i.e. "full coverage" may not apply. Full coverage premiums are based on, among other factors, the value of the insured's vehicle. This coverage may not apply to rental cars because the insurance company does not want to assume responsibility for a claim greater than the value of the insured's vehicle, assuming that a rental car may be worth more than the insured's vehicle. Some states, such as Minnesota, may require that it extend to rental cars. Most rental car companies offer insurance to cover damage to the rental vehicle. In some regions, the costs associated with not having access to the vehicle ("Loss of Use") is also covered. urn:uuid:6a7b91cf-e045-4ded-8b83-ccb6b3d8d342Do You Know How To Find The Cheapest Car Insurance When Buying A Used Car?Used cars are in high demand these days because they allow people to get on the road for less money. Though the investment in a used car may be less, purchasing the wrong type of vehicle can negate this savings. Have you wondered how to find the chea...Wed, 16 Nov 2011 14:35:18 -0600Used cars are in high demand these days because they allow people to get on the road for less money. Though the investment in a used car may be less, purchasing the wrong type of vehicle can negate this savings. Have you wondered how to find the cheapest car insurance when purchasing a used car? It involves thinking like the car insurance company. Claims history is a major factor in determining car insurance rates. Used cars that have a high incidence of theft are expensive to insure due to increased risk of claims. The same is true for cars featuring a high repair rate or those that are prone to accidents. Look for reliable cars that are not on the most-stolen list published by the National Insurance Crime Bureau. Just because a car is used does not mean it is inexpensive. An expensive used car will probably be costly to insure. Some companies will not insure extremely expensive cars or vehicles that are no longer being produced. Look for an inexpensive used car that falls within your budget because it should be cheaper to insure. The driver is another factor determining car insurance rates. Single males under age 25 encounter the highest rates because they are most accident-prone. Geographic location can also impact rates. For example, New York has some of the most expensive car insurance rates in the country. Drivers found at fault in multiple accidents should also expect to pay more for car insurance. Being a careful driver and living in a rural area increases the chance of getting cheap car insurance. In addition, look for a used car that the insurance company has had good experience with, particularly a domestic car whose replacement parts are inexpensive and easy to find. Cars with small engines and two-wheel drive are often the best bet.urn:uuid:767bda98-3277-4d97-93e8-b0c6fd5c4825When Aiming To Reduce Auto Insurance Make Sure To Get Fresh Quotes From Current InsurerMost drivers would benefit from getting alternative quotes from various insurers at each renewal period. When policyholders find a reputable insurer offering great rates they would not have much reason sticking with current provider. In fact they mig...Wed, 26 Oct 2011 09:42:44 -0500Most drivers would benefit from getting alternative quotes from various insurers at each renewal period. When policyholders find a reputable insurer offering great rates they would not have much reason sticking with current provider. In fact they might feel a bit let down with their existing providers as they might have thought all along that they have been getting decent rates. However this feeling might not be justified since such company might have really been the best choice last year. But the changes in the market, personal circumstances and most importantly in competitors could have affected <a href="http://www.autoinsurancequoteseasy.com/">auto insurance quotes</a> lately. Therefore it would be highly advisable to have an open mind when people are searching for cheaper rates. Having strong opinions or liking one particular insurer might hinder the process and might prevent them to have a thorough search. For example they might think highly of certain companies that they might tent to accept an offer from them pretty easily especially when it is cheaper than their current deal. Even though they might be saving some money if they continued their search a bit more their savings could be a lot more. Many people would start looking around with intention to find the <a href="http://www.autoinsurancequoteseasy.com/companies">best auto insurance</a> deals. They should exhaust all the choices before rushing into making a quick decision. Considering there are many sources selling car insurance online and offline competition in the car insurance market is quite apparent. In addition it is a lot easier to get quotes and compare insurers in any zip code especially with online car insurance comparison sites. So drivers should determine the level of coverage they like to have and run it through with several companies. Effectively they would have a shortlist of cheap auto insurance quotes in no time. Then it would be a lot easier to see how current renewal terms measure up. At this point they might have to decide whether to stay where they are or move to a superior company. Many policyholders might like their insurers for various reasons while others would want to switch provider as a result of dissatisfaction. Formed opinion about current insurer would determine their next action a lot in various ways. People started the process mainly because they did not like existing insurer would have no problem switching to alternatives with slightly lower quotes. On the other hand policyholders who are satisfied might want to give another chance to present insurer before making the swap. This would make a lot of sense especially when alternative quotes are only slightly better. Most car insurance companies would love to capture new customers. Similarly they would hate to lose existing policyholders even though they might be gaining many new clients. Policyholders are probably the most valuable assets and insurers would want to protect them. On that basis drivers might be able to renegotiate better rates than existing renewal terms. However they might actually need to have lower alternative quotes to have a strong negotiating position. Most companies would ask straight if they need to beat certain figure to retain the business. It might actually be a great fun to see how quickly higher renewal quote is coming down when they realize the existence of a stiff competition now.urn:uuid:fd94ecbe-2458-40d8-81fd-bf67ccb30c19Five Tips to Prevent Auto AccidentsFive Tips to Prevent Auto Accidents Risky driving behavior causes accidents. Be safe and avoid accidents by following these safe-driving tips: Watch Your Speed: It's easy to go too fast—especially when you are in a hurry. Remind yourself...Wed, 12 Oct 2011 09:44:12 -0500Five Tips to Prevent Auto Accidents Risky driving behavior causes accidents. Be safe and avoid accidents by following these safe-driving tips: <ol> <li>Watch Your Speed: It's easy to go too fast—especially when you are in a hurry. Remind yourself to slow down and keep it safe. </li> <li>Mirror, Mirror: Properly adjust all mirrors before starting your trip. It is also important to check the side and rearview mirrors frequently while en route. This will allow you to constantly observe your surroundings. </li> <li>Avoid Road Rage: Leave aggressive drivers to the police. Call 911 and report unsafe drivers—you could be doing them and everyone else on the road a favor in the long run. </li> <li>Drinking = No Driving: If you've been drinking, have someone else drive—no matter how you feel. </li> <li>Eyes on the Road: Minimize distractions when driving. Avoid eating, using your phone or doing anything else that takes your concentration off the road—even if it's just for a few seconds. </li> </ol>urn:uuid:33bb5e2b-6d60-45ad-8ff3-da5cfc981e2bHow to make a Car Insurance ClaimNo one wants to get involved in an accident even if you are covered by a car insurance. However, since accidents can never really be foreseen, it may be inevitable that if and when it happens, you will need to make a claim on your coverage from your ...Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:00:34 -0500No one wants to get involved in an accident even if you are covered by a car insurance. However, since accidents can never really be foreseen, it may be inevitable that if and when it happens, you will need to make a claim on your coverage from your insurance provider. To make things easier for you and your provider, here are some tips on making a claim: 1.Never drive away from an accident, especially if a person or an animal is hurt or injured or property is damaged. 2.Get the names and pertinent information of all involved in the accident, the insurance company will need this to process your claim. 3.A sketch of the accident is also necessary, if possible, show exact boundaries where the accident took place and road or traffic signs in the area. 4.Have your Certificate of Motor Insurance ready so that you can show it to the police or the other parties involved. 5.Report the accident to the insurance company at once even if you do not intend to file a claim, it will help your appraisal and your insurance company.urn:uuid:a467c3bd-641b-40c4-8fb8-e35d86b46604What determines the price of auto insuranceWhat determines the price of my auto insurance policy? There are many factors that influence the price you pay for auto insurance. The average American driver spends about $850 a year. Your premium may be higher or lower, depending on: You&rsq...Wed, 14 Sep 2011 15:51:52 -0500<h1>What determines the price of my auto insurance policy?</h1> There are many factors that influence the price you pay for auto insurance. The average American driver spends about $850 a year. Your premium may be higher or lower, depending on: <ol class="text"> <li class="text">You’re driving record. The better your record, the lower your premium. If you've had accidents or serious traffic violations, you will pay more than if you have a clean driving record. You may also pay more if you haven't been insured for a number of years. </li> <li class="text">The number of miles you drive each year. The more miles you drive, the more chance for accidents. If you drive a lower than average number of miles per year, less than 10,000, you will pay less. For instance, some companies will give discounts to policyholders who carpool. </li> <li class="text">Where you live. Insurance companies look at local trends, such as the number of accidents, car thefts and lawsuits, as well as the cost of medical care and car repair. </li> <li class="text">Your age. In general, mature drivers have fewer accidents than less experienced drivers, particularly teenagers. So insurers generally charge more if teenagers or young people below age 25 drive your car. </li> <li class="text">The car you drive. Some cars cost more to insure than others. Variables include the likelihood of theft, the cost of the car, the cost of repairs, and the overall safety record of the car. </li> <li class="text">The amount of coverage. Of course, like anything else, the more coverage you have, the more you pay. However, you may qualify for discounts. </li> </ol>urn:uuid:4a0a19e7-3067-4a0c-9b7e-2909ab223f21SR-22 Auto InsuranceSR-22 auto insurance is really a document that verifies that you have insurance. Also known as the Certificate of Financial Responsibility, it's required by courts or some states if you commit certain driving offenses, such as driving-while-intoxicat...Tue, 06 Sep 2011 15:21:02 -0500SR-22 auto insurance is really a document that verifies that you have insurance. Also known as the Certificate of Financial Responsibility, it's required by courts or some states if you commit certain driving offenses, such as driving-while-intoxicated violations or driving without insurance and causing an accident. This verification can be filed electronically by the insurance company directly to the state Department of Motor Vehicles in some cases, and any state required minimums must be met. <h2>Keeping SR-22 auto insurance</h2> If you cancel your auto insurance policy, or allow it to lapse, then your insurance company must notify the state by filing an SR-26 form. This lets your state know that you are not insured, which may trigger negative consequences for you regarding your ability to drive in the state. It's important to keep your policy active if you require SR-22 auto insurance, in order to avoid any fees or penalties from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles . You may have to keep your insurance active for three years (each state is different), depending on the driving violation that made it necessary for you to obtain this coverage in the first place.urn:uuid:a27d0922-de05-417e-ac51-f993560087d2What is Auto InsuranceAuto Insurance protects you against financial loss if you have an accident. It is a contract between you and the insurance company. You agree to pay the premium and the insurance company agrees to pay your losses as defined in your policy. Auto...Tue, 23 Aug 2011 12:52:53 -0500Auto Insurance protects you against financial loss if you have an accident. It is a contract between you and the insurance company. You agree to pay the premium and the insurance company agrees to pay your losses as defined in your policy. Auto insurance provides property, liability and medical coverage:   <ul style="list-style-type: disc;"> <li>Property coverage pays for damage to or theft of your car. </li> <li>Liability coverage pays for your legal responsibility to others for bodily injury or property damage. </li> <li>Medical coverage pays for the cost of treating injuries, rehabilitation and sometimes lost wages and funeral expenses. </li> </ul> An auto insurance policy is comprised of six different kinds of coverage. Most states require you to buy some, but not all, of these coverages. If you're financing a car, your lender may also have requirements. Most auto policies are for six months or a year. Your insurance company should notify you by mail when it's time to renew the policy and to pay your premium. Why do you need auto insurance? It's really all about protecting yourself financially. <ul style="list-style-type: disc;"> <li>If you're in an accident or your car is stolen, it costs money, often a lot of money, to fix or replace it. </li> <li>If you or any passengers are injured in an accident, medical costs can be extremely expensive. </li> <li>If you or your car is responsible for damage or injury to others, you may be sued for much more than you're worth. </li> <li>Not only is having insurance a prudent financial decision, many states require you to have at least some coverage. </li> </ul> Questions to ask your agent Your Independent Agent is an advocate for finding auto insurance that meets your specific needs. Here are a few things to consider as you prepare for the discussion: <ul style="list-style-type: disc;"> <li>How much can you afford to pay if you get in an accident? (To keep premiums low you may want to have a higher deductible and be willing to pay more for repairs.) </li> <li>What is the insurance company's level of service and ability to pay claims? </li> <li>What discounts are available? (Ask about good driver, multiple policy and student discounts.) </li> <li>What's the procedure for filing and settling a claim? (Ask who to call and what happens after you file a claim.) </li> </ul>