As a new driver, it can be difficult to figure out how to get car insurance. But if you know the basics and follow these tips, you can make a smart choice and save money. Here are some important insurance tips for new drivers:
1. Understand your coverage options:
You can get liability coverage, collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, personal injury protection (PIP), uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and extras like roadside assistance or rental car reimbursement. Read more about the different types of insurance available. Knowing what each type of coverage includes can help you choose the right amount of coverage for your needs.
2. View the different offers:
Don’t accept the first insurance price you’re offered. Get quotes from different insurance companies to find the best coverage at the best price. Online tools for comparison shopping and insurance agents can make the comparison process easier.
3. Consider deductions:
Your deductible is the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance starts paying out. If you choose a higher deductible, your premium will be lower, but you will have to pay more if you need to make a claim. To find a deductible that suits you, consider your income and how much risk you are willing to take.
4. Develop policy:
If you need multiple types of insurance, such as car insurance, renters insurance, or homeowners insurance, you may want to consider getting them all from the same company. You can potentially save a lot of money if you bundle your insurance with other insurance policies.
5. Keep your driving records clean:
The amount of coverage you pay largely depends on your driving behavior. Stay away from traffic tickets, accidents, and other traffic crimes, keep your records clean, and get lower insurance rates over time.
6. Take a defensive driving course:
Attending a defensive driving school will not only make you a better and safer driver, but it can also help you get lower insurance rates. Contact your insurance company to see if they will lower your rates if you take an approved safe driving course.
7. Find offers:
Talk to your insurance company about any offers they can make. Good student discounts (for maintaining good grades), safe driver discounts, low mileage discounts, and discounts for adding safety features to the car are all common discounts for new drivers.
8. Consider usage-based insurance:
Usage-based insurance plans use telematics devices or mobile apps to track how you drive. For new drivers concerned about safety, usage-based insurance is an inexpensive option because safe driving can save you money and other benefits.
9. Check your policy once a year:
It’s important to double-check your insurance contract every year because circumstances change as you drive and live. Make sure you have enough coverage by renewing when necessary and take advantage of new offers or ways to save money.
10. Ask Questions:
Don’t be afraid to ask your insurance agent or salesperson questions and get more information. To make informed insurance choices and reduce costs, you need to understand your policy’s coverage limits, deductibles, and any available discounts.
11. Consider taking out additional insurance:
Depending on your needs and driving style, you may want to consider additional coverage options such as car rental reimbursement, roadside assistance, gap insurance (if you have a loan or lease), or coverage for custom parts or accessories.
12. Be a good driver:
In addition to insurance, a good driver is important for maintaining a good driving record, avoiding collisions, and lowering your insurance costs. Follow the rules of the road, don’t let anything else fool you, and put your safety and that of others on the road first.
Conclusion
If new drivers follow these important insurance tips, they can feel confident they’re getting the right coverage and saving money on their bills. Remember, good driving habits, constantly learning new things, and being responsible with your insurance can save you money and give you peace of mind on the road.
FAQs
1. What types of car insurance do new drivers need?
Liability insurance covers damage to someone else’s car or property in the event of an accident that is your fault. This is what most new drivers need. They may also consider collision coverage, full coverage, personal injury protection (PIP), and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, depending on their needs.
2. How can someone new to driving save on car insurance?
New drivers can save on their car insurance by keeping a clean record, taking defensive driving lessons, getting quotes from multiple companies, choosing a higher deductible, bundling policies, and taking advantage of discounts such as student discounts and safe driver discounts.
3. Do new drivers need to take out roadside assistance insurance?
Roadside assistance coverage is not mandatory, but it can be useful for new drivers, especially if they don’t know how to handle an emergency or breakdown. For added peace of mind and convenience on the road, our roadside assistance service includes towing, fuel delivery, puncture repairs, and assistance if you’re locked out.
4. What type of gap insurance do new drivers need?
New drivers who lease or purchase a car should get gap coverage. It covers the “gap” between the amount you still owe on your car loan or lease and the cash value of your car if it were to be totaled in an accident. With this coverage, you do not have to pay for a car that you no longer own.
5. Can a new driver be added to his parents’ insurance?
Yes, new drivers can usually be added to their parent’s coverage as additional drivers. This is common and can save you money on your premium compared to purchasing separate insurance. But it’s important to call the insurance company and ask about the details of the policy and how it could affect your premiums.
6. What should you do if a new driver is involved in a car accident?
If a new driver is involved in an accident, they should put safety first, make sure everything is okay, and get to a safe place if possible. They must provide the other party with insurance information, obtain evidence such as photographs and witness statements, and then call the insurance company to begin the claims process.
7. Do new drivers who move to another state need to change their insurance?
Yes, new drivers must change their insurance if they move to another state. Different states have different insurance requirements and coverage options, so you should notify your insurance company if you’re moving to ensure you have the right coverage for your new home.