Posted by Tom Carolan on Thu, Feb 25, 2010 @ 05:55 PM
Changes in auto insurance are amongst the multitude of things to deal with in the case of divorce. As with practically every aspect of your life, there are many things to think about and act on when it comes to your auto insurance policy. If you faced with divorce, there are a number of different choices to be made in regard to your auto insurance. These need to be discussed with your auto insurance agent and possibly with your lawyer and/or your soon-to-be ex.
The following topics are the most pressing ones to address concerning the impact of divorce on auto insurance.
- If you get a divorce, and the family auto insurance policy is split up, typically rates will raise because you will no longer be eligible for multi-car discounts and possibly other discounts.
- How will an insurer treat coverage for a teenaged driver who is in a joint custody situation?
- When an individual driver goes from being a secondary driver to being the primary one on a policy, will it cause rates to raise or lower?
- When does an auto policy officially need to be separated?
- If a couple physically separates prior to the official divorce, how is auto insurance affected?
- Will a former spouse's credit, insurance rating or driving record affect the premium you are offered?
- How much will your new policy cost and will it be different depending on which vehicle you get?
- Does your state have its own specific laws concerning auto insurance policies and divorce?
- Can you drop an ex-spouse from your policy following a divorce without telling the individual that you have done so?
- Is it better to remain with the same insurance company you had during your marriage or shop around for a new one?
Most of these topics can be easily addressed and put to rest by an experienced, competent insurance agent. In fact, before you enter into discussions about your auto insurance with your spouse or your lawyer, it is advisable to get these things answered, so that you already have an idea of the best route to take in order to protect your own best interests. If your insurance agent is at a loss to give you concrete responses, check with your attorney who is familiar with all the different things that need to be dealt with in the case of divorce.
When it comes down to the bottom line, shop around for prices using a car insurance comparison tool. You may find that a new policy is a better deal than the one you previously had.
Posted by Tom Carolan on Wed, Feb 24, 2010 @ 06:40 PM
Working out the details of a divorce is an emotionally draining period of dividing up the aspects of a life once shared. Everything must be considered and difficult decisions made, in order to avoid future conflicts, omissions and errors that could prove costly and inconvenient for either side. Amongst the many things to divvy up in a divorce is the auto insurance policy. There are several different aspects to consider when deciding what to do with the auto insurance policy for a couple that is splitting up.
If each of you has separate policies, the process is simple. You remove the other person from your coverage and you are done. However, in most cases married couples have joint policies, in order to get discounts that they would not otherwise be entitled to. If you have only one car, you will need to begin by deciding who gets the car. Logic says that the one who has the car will also need the car insurance policy. This simplifies things greatly.
However, if you have more than one vehicle and each of you gets to keep one or more of them, typically only one person will get to keep the policy. The choice of who gets it should not create an unfair advantage for one person or the other. Talking to your insurance agent or shopping around for prices before making a decision will help you. If you have joint custody of your children and an amicable divorce, you may want to consider keeping the policy as is. You can share the joint insurance policy for a period of time following the divorce if your relationship allows for it.
Occasionally, the division of property in a divorce case in court will even include things like auto insurance policies. If the details of dividing up property have become cumbersome, often the lawyers for each side and a judge will end up making the final decisions. You can make requests to your lawyer in such cases, but things may not end up exactly as you wish.
Divorce is complicated and multi-faceted. Avoid getting bogged down in the details of dividing up things. Sometimes it is beneficial to give up some of the small easily replaceable things like the auto insurance policy in order to get more important things. Use common sense in your dealings with your ex-spouse and follow your lawyer's advice. By doing so, you will reduce the tension and stress surrounding you at this difficult time.
Posted by Tom Carolan on Tue, Jan 19, 2010 @ 11:41 AM
Shopping for auto insurance is not the most enjoyable shopping experience. However, the Internet has made the process a whole less daunting. Now, shoppers have access to information and numerous quotes with a few clicks of the mouse. A few minutes online can arm you with all of the information you need to make the best choice for your auto insurance needs. But how can you know if you are paying too much for auto insurance?
Prior to the boom of insurance companies online, it was easier to just choose a local insurance agent and stick with the same plan, even if you had a suspicion that you were overpaying for the coverage. Now, there are more options and no good reasons to stick with overpriced auto coverage.
More than ever people are realizing the great benefit to shopping online for auto insurance. User-friendly comparison shopping means that the consumer can easily find the right insurance plan for a price that works even for tight budgets. High competition for consumers is another factor contributing to better deals in auto insurance.
A benefit to shopping online for auto insurance coverage is avoiding the guilt-complex you sometimes deal with when using a local broker. From constant phone calls to pressures to purchase more insurance, local agents can sometimes be an unwelcome hassle. Instead, online, you can comparison shop on your own and in your own convenient time-no agent required! This can be a time-saver as well as helping you to avoid feeling the heat from a pesky agent.
Using online comparison shopping tools is a way to find out if you are paying too much for coverage. You can compare and contrast different plan benefits and fees to determine the best deal. Search for online consumer reviews to give you a real-life perspective of a particular insurer or auto insurance plan.
Keep in mind that there are many factors that determining your final premium amount, such as driver age, driving record and car value. Find information about insurance companies online to determine how they will calculate your premium amounts. Most online insurance sites will help you to identify any costs associated with your premiums, so you know exactly what to expect from your coverage.
It's never been easier to shop for auto insurance. Using online insurance sites you can get all of the information you need and comparison shop to determine if you are paying too much for your current auto insurance.
Posted by Tom Carolan on Thu, Jan 14, 2010 @ 11:59 AM
It's no secret that insurance coverage is expensive. Whether it's medical, life, home or auto, it can be painful to shell out the bucks to make sure you are protected. Still, responsible citizens know it is essential to have good coverage, especially when it comes to
auto insurance and protecting yourself and others on the road. Although auto insurance can cost several hundred dollars each year, there are ways to save money and still have the quality coverage you need.
There are a number of factors that contribute to the cost of premiums for auto coverage, including:
- Age
- Driving record
- Where you live.
- Make and year of car
- Other risk factors
Going without auto insurance is not an option, as it is a legal requirement in the U.S. to have a minimum of liability coverage. Driving illegally without insurance is a great risk and can lead to serious legal and financial problems that can follow you for years to come.
Instead of focusing on the high cost of auto insurance, you can take steps to making your insurance premiums as inexpensive as possible while still providing the coverage you need. Below are ten ways you can reduce premiums for auto insurance coverage.
Tip #1 Comparison Shop
Before you purchase new insurance or renew a current plan, take time to research your options and do some comparison shopping. Premiums and benefits vary significantly from insurer to insurer, depending on your needs and the way in which you choose to set up payments. By analyzing different plans, benefits and prices, you are more likely to come up with the insurance coverage that you no is right for your unique needs, instead of just paying too much for a cookie-cutter plan. Most websites offer tools to help you simultaneously obtain quotes from different providers at one time, so you can compare and contrast
Tip #2 Increase Your Deductible
This isn't right for everyone, but for some customers it makes sense to increase the deductible, which in turn lowers your premiums. However, you must keep in mind that if there is an accident or another auto issue, you will have to pay out of pocket to meet the deductible amount prior to insurer paying.
Tip #3 Earn and Maintain Good Credit
When it comes to auto insurance maintaining good credit scores allows you to obtain better discounts on coverage. An insurer views a good credit score as someone who is at lower risk to accidents and more trustworthy, therefore, they will offer you lower rates for an insurance plan.
Tip #4 Go Green and Save Green
By striving to be as eco-friendly as possible with your automobile, you will become eligible for discounts from auto insurers. Most major insurance companies offer special deals for customers who choose eco-friendly cars.
Tip #5 Lower Mileage
If possible, keep your mileage as low as you can in order to qualify for a low mileage discount. Whether you choose to carpool, use public transportation or take a bike to work, you can decrease the miles you put on your car and reap the monetary savings.
Tip #6 Avoid Using Your Car for Work
Cars utilized for work tend to result in higher premiums for coverage than those just used for personal use. You can save money by saving your car for your personal reasons
Tip #7 Find a Multi-Car Policy
A group auto policy can result in significantly less premium costs than you would pay for the cars' coverage individually. Most auto insurance providers will offer special discounts if you put more than one car on the plan.
Tip #8 Check Your Memberships
Some organizations and clubs offer discounts on auto insurance as a perk for being part of the group. One such group is AAA, but there are others. Check with any organizations you are a part of to find out if they provide such benefits.
Tip #9 Keep a Good Driving Record
If you can keep a violation free driving record for three years, you may become eligible for special discounts on auto insurance, depending on your insurance company of choice. Keeping a clean driving record, meaning no traffic violations, no accidents, etc, lowers your risk as a client, so the company will likely decrease your premiums.
Tip #10 Get All Insurance in One Place
Some companies will offer substantial discounts on coverage if you choose to purchase multiple plans through them. For example, you could get life insurance, home, medical and auto from the same Insurer. Companies like to reward loyal customers!
Posted by Tom Carolan on Fri, Jan 08, 2010 @ 10:59 AM
In a world in which the Internet is becoming a primary source for information, more and more people are realizing its usefulness when it comes to finding the best prices on things like
auto insurance. Still, there are a number of people who do not take the time to research insurance policies and end up paying more than is necessary.
According to Jamal Nasser who is associated with InsuranceBestPrices.com, it is common for consumers to remain with the same company for years without stopping to consider if there might be better insurance deals out there that could save them money. He explains that even a few hours researching online is likely to result in a new auto insurance plan that is a better value for one's money.
Nasser's site InsuranceBestPrices.com has compiled this list of advice for consumers who are interested in saving money on their auto insurance coverage in 2010. The consumer pointers include:
- Focus on earning and maintaining a clean driving record, and know how to explain any poor marks or issues present on your current record. A good driving record makes it possible for you to take advantage of the best deals.
- Find out of your current occupation or an affiliation with a professional organization earns you any special discounts on auto insurance. You may also qualify for discounts if you have multiple drivers within your household.
- Consider joining auto clubs like AAA (Triple A) or other organizations that offer discounts on coverage. Check with specific insurance companies to determine what types of discounts they offer.
- Utilize the Internet to compare and contrast different insurers to find the coverage types and premiums that best fit your situation and budget. With a few clicks of the mouse you can have information and rates from numerous insurance companies and plans.
- Keep in mind that annual and month-to-month rates vary, so you will want to keep limits in coverage the same as you research in order to make the right comparisons.
- Look into an individual insurer's consumer complaints through the state department of insurance web site. The info is open and available to the public and can help you to make educated decisions based on other customers' experiences.
- If low premium price is a top priority, consider requesting a higher deductible. This is the money you will pay out of pocket before the insurance company kicks in the money for your coverage. The higher deductible, the lower the premium, which means you will cover the smaller costs that come up and your insurance will cover the major ones.
- Finally, consider your car type and how it affects your insurance costs. It may be worth it to go with an automobile with a lower profile rather than a more expensive high-end car, because the lower-profile car typically has cheaper premiums.
It is always a good time to research insurance providers and plans to find the right coverage to match up with your coverage needs and budget. Making changes could result in big savings for the New Year.
Posted by Tom Carolan on Wed, Jan 06, 2010 @ 11:43 AM
Reports are showing that the national auto insurance industry will continue to increase rates in 2010. While the last half of the year 2009 showed an average of 4% increase in premium rates, predictions are that rates will increase yet again early in the new year. While insurance customers may object these hikes in premium costs, the State Department of Commerce and Insurance has the power to approve or deny any insurance company's request to increase rates.
One of the largest names in car insurance, State Farm Insurance, has already received approval for a .8% increase in their rates that will begin in February on all new auto insurance plans and then in March for all policy renewals.
Reasons for premium increases for auto insurance include money problems for insurance companies that are no longer able to enjoy significant earnings through Wall Street investments, and rising medical costs due to car accidents. Therefore, these insurers are relying more than ever on customer premiums to cover losses. Some experts are predicting increased insurance losses that will further cost the companies.
Insurance companies across the board are receiving approvals for car insurance rate increases. Many of these rate hikes are coming into affect in January, February and March for new policies as well as policy renewals. Customers are finding the increases difficult to accept as they try to rework already tight budgets.
High risk customers, including people with a history of accidents and speeding tickets, will probably feel the brunt of the car insurance rate increases. Because of such premium increases, reports are showing that more and more customers are taking out liability only policies on automobiles, and some are even illegally going without coverage, rather than forking over money for higher premiums.
Another tactic for customers trying to stay legal and keep premiums affordable is to increase deductibles for auto insurance plans. However, experts warn customers that doing so may leave them with repair costs that they cannot afford to pay.
With more and more consumers looking to find bargains on car insurance, the competition in the market is increasing. Traffic on auto insurance websites is at an all time high.
Compare coverage rates from the top auto insurers.
Posted by Tom Carolan on Mon, Jan 04, 2010 @ 06:07 PM
It is well known that when insurance losses decrease, insurance customers typically benefit through lower cost of coverage. In the case of
auto insurance coverage, FBI studies are revealing that automobile theft rates are on the decline, falling 18.7% during the first half of 2009, which is resulting in fewer claims from customers.
Technological advances have made it more difficult for auto thieves to succeed in
their efforts, resulting in a gradual decline in auto theft over the course of the last decade. Newer models of cars in particular are at a lower-risk, while older models lacking upgrades in anti-theft technology are still vulnerable.
In addition to tech advances, stricter auto theft laws in the U.S. are causing thieves to focus on cities near U.S. borders, so they can quickly move the vehicle out of the country. Because of this cities near the borders continue to experience high auto theft numbers.
Other declining crimes, such as fewer drunken driving deaths, give experts reason to predict that consumers will soon experience more affordable auto insurance coverage.
Posted by Tom Carolan on Mon, Dec 14, 2009 @ 06:38 PM
Who doesn't want to save some money on their car insurance? TV ads have made
shopping for car insurance seem fun and easy. The reality of the matter is that you really can get cheaper car insurance even if you don't go with one of the companies producing those funny commercials. Almost every car insurance provider offers discounts to their customers. Are your
car insurance rates too high? If you think they are, you should speak with an insurance agent and find out how you can get great discounts on your auto insurance.
- Safe drivers are entitled to a 10% discount on their car insurance. To be eligible for this discount, your driving record must reflect no problems within the last three to five years.
- Senior citizens over age 50 can also get special discounts.
- Drivers who have taken a defensive driving course can get a discount. All you have to do is furnish proof that you completed the course.
- Parents tend to be quite anxious about their teenagers driving. Part of the anxiety is the high insurance premiums on these young drivers. Teenagers who get good grades or who have taken a driver's class can get discounts that will make those insurance rates more bearable.
- Certain car features, such as air bags, anti-theft devices, anti-lock brakes, and day running lights can provide you with quite a savings on your car insurance.
- If you don't have to commute to work or your job is near your home, your insurance rates will also be discounted.
- Ask for discounts for multiple vehicles on the same insurance policy.
- Combining several different policies with just one company. These could include boat, home, life, or motorcycle insurance.
Posted by Tom Carolan on Fri, Dec 11, 2009 @ 12:01 PM
Being convicted of a DUI tends to cause lots of problems. Afterwards, you will need to fill out a
FR44 form in both Virginia and Florida in order to prove that you carry
car insurance. Unfortunately, there are a number of companies that do not submit the FR44 form right away after you purchase a policy from them. Some companies
simply aren't supportive of DUI drivers. For that reason, it is helpful to find an insurance provider who will make sure that your FR44 form is filed quickly.
Your license is automatically suspended for at least one year after you are convicted of a DUI in Virginia. For Florida drivers, the suspension period can range between 180 days and one year. In order to renew your license, you will have to attend a DUI driving school. In some cases, the law also requires you to undergo certain substance abuse treatments. Once you receive your license, you will also have to pay quite a bit extra for your car insurance. This is because the premiums are increased for DUI drivers. Besides that, any additional driving related offenses that you are charged with become much more serious. With so many stressful situations to deal with, it is in your best interest to make FR44 form filing easier on yourself by choosing a company that will do it right away.
You driver's license should be reinstated as soon as you furnish evidence of your insurance. The old form SR22 was replaced in 2008 by the current FR44 form, which has a higher requirement for liability insurance. Florida drivers will have to carry ten times as much coverage as before. For motorists in Virginia the rates are twice as high as they used to be. If you do not keep up with your FR44 form during the 3 year compliance period after having been convicted of a DUI, your vehicle registration and your driver's licensed will be suspended. Although these rules only apply to Virginia and Florida, it is expected that other states will adopt similar laws.
We all have to contend with lots of stress in our lives. The FR44 form does not need to add to your problems. Find an insurance company that will make your life easier by filing this important form right away.
Auto Insurance Quotes
Posted by Tom Carolan on Tue, Dec 08, 2009 @ 01:45 PM
In the United States of America, regardless of where it is you live, you have to
have a minimum level of
auto insurance coverage if you want to legally drive a vehicle. While there is always more that can be added, there is always a minimum that is required which is determined by each state on an individual basis.
Every state in the US will require drivers to carry some amount of bodily injury coverage as well as property damage coverage. When you look at what a specific state's minimum coverage is it will read like this; Florida 10/20/10. Each number, when multiplied by 1000, will represent the dollar amount of coverage that is required by the state to be carried at all times on a vehicle. In this case, the first number represents $10,000 of coverage to be carried for bodily injury per person, the second number represents $20,000 of coverage to be carried for all injured persons, and the third number represents $10,000 of coverage to be carried for any damage to property. Again, each state has its own minimum requirements and these break down as follows:
- Alabama 25/50/25
- Alaska 50/100/25
- Arizona 15/30/10
- Arkansas 25/50/25
- California 15/30/5
- Colorado 25/50/15
- Connecticut 20/40/10
- Delaware 15/30/10
- D.C. 25/50/10
- Florida 10/20/10
- Georgia 25/50/25
- Hawaii 20/40/10
- Idaho 25/50/15
- Illinois 20/40/15
- Indiana 25/50/10
- Iowa 20/40/15
- Kansas 25/50/10
- Kentucky 25/50/10
- Louisiana 10/20/10
- Maine 50/100/25
- Maryland 20/40/15
- Massachusetts 20/40/5
- Michigan 20/40/10
- Minnesota 30/60/10
- Mississippi 25/50/25
- Missouri 25/50/10
- Montana 25/50/10
- Nebraska 25/50/25
- Nevada 15/30/10
- New Hampshire 25/50/25
- New Jersey 15/30/10
- New Mexico 25/50/10
- New York 25/50/10
- North Carolina 30/60/25
- North Dakota 25/50/25
- Ohio 12.5/25/7.5
- Oklahoma 25/50/25
- Oregon 25/50/10
- Pennsylvania 15/30/5
- Rhode Island 25/50/25
- South Carolina 25/50/25
- South Dakota 25/50/25
- Tennessee 25/50/10
- Texas 25/50/25
- Utah 25/50/15
- Vermont 25/50/10
- Virginia 25/50/20
- Washington 25/50/10
- West Virginia 20/40/10
- Wisconsin 25/50/10
- Wyoming 25/50/20
Once again, these numbers only reflect the state mandated amounts that must be carried no matter what, but that doesn't mean that these coverage levels are right for you. Many opt to go with higher coverage levels and your insurance agent should be able to help you determine what the proper amount of coverage is for your particular situation.
Also keep in mind that if you do not outright own the vehicle that you drive, the lender may deem it necessary for you to obtain additional coverage's. Some additional coverage's that you may want to add or may even be required to add are:
- Comprehensive: Covers you for any theft, fire, flood, or vandalism damages that may occur.
- Collision: Covers any repair bills that come as a result of an accident involving your vehicle.
- Personal Injury Protection or PIP: Also known as ‘No Fault' insurance, PIP will cover bodily injury of anyone involved in an accident regardless of who was at fault.
- Uninsured Motorist: Covers damages to your vehicle in the case of the other driver not having any auto insurance.
Once more, it is probably best for you to call or visit your insurance agent to determine what exactly the best auto insurance coverage is for you. While the perfect policy will vary from person to person, there will always be a state required minimum of coverage that must be carried no matter what state you call home.