Are you having trouble navigating Auto insurance questions?

Have no fear! Below are some of the most FAQs we have received as an agency.

FAQ 1: What is the difference between Comprehensive coverage and Collision coverage?

• Comprehension and collision coverage go hand and hand to cover your car of physical damages. Comprehension comes into play when you hit or get hit by animals, falling objects (Such as trees.), lightning, or your car burns. Collision coverage provides protection if/when you get involved in a car accident, whether AT FAULT or NOT AT FAULT.

FAQ 2: What is full glass coverage?

• Glass coverage is often purchased with comprehension coverage. In the event a rock gets kicked up and cracks your windshield, you will be covered by the carrier to either fix or replace your windshield. Most states require you to have comprehension coverage in order to attain glass coverage. In the state of South Carolina, there is no deductible that needs to be met. However, it does mean that a claim will be made with your insurance company.

FAQ 3: What is a premium?

• A policy premium is the amount paid to an insurance company to maintain coverage for you and your vehicles. Premiums can be paid monthly, quarterly, or annually. IF the premium is NOT paid, the policy will be canceled and you will no longer have insurance protection if you get into an accident.

FAQ 4: How does filing a claim with my insurance company impact my insurance premium?

• When you file a claim with your insurance company, your rates can increase because they may look at you as a riskier customer. The increase can vary from carrier to carrier. The claim can stay on your record for 3-5 years. Other factors can also affect the cost of your insurance, such as: credit score, frequency of natural disasters in your area, number of previous claims you have filed, and number of speeding tickets you have received.

FAQ 5: How can I save money on my auto policy?

1. Don’t settle for the first quote you get. Check with different insurance companies to see who offers the best rate. You might be surprised by how much you can save just by shopping around. The best thing about our agency is that we are a brokerage, which means we work with multiple carrier’s to get you the best savings.
2. If you have other types of insurance, like home or renters insurance, try bundling them with the same company. Many insurers offer discounts when you combine multiple policies.
3. Increasing your deductible (the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in) can lower your monthly premium. Just make sure you can afford the higher deductible if you need to make a claim.
4. Ask about discounts for things like safe driving, having certain safety features in your car, or being a good student. Many insurers offer discounts for these factors.
5. A better credit score can help you get lower insurance rates. Pay your bills on time and manage your debt to keep your credit in good shape.
6. Some insurers offer discounts if you use a device or app that tracks your driving habits. If you drive safely, you might qualify for a discount.
7. Maintaining a clean driving record without accidents or tickets can help keep your insurance rates low. Safe driving is one of the best ways to avoid higher premiums.

FAQ 6: What is the difference between Uninsured Motorist Coverage and Underinsured Motorist Coverage?

• Uninsured Motorist Coverage protects you from financial loss if the at-fault driver has no insurance at all.
• Underinsured Motorist Coverage ensures you’re covered when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover all your expenses. In reality, both are important to ensure you are fully protected.

FAQ 7: What is Med Pay?

Med Pay is designed to cover medical costs for you and your passengers, regardless of who is at fault in an accident. It provides financial assistance for a range of medical expenses related to injuries sustained in a car crash.

FAQ 8: What does Med Pay cover?

• Medical Expenses: This includes hospital visits, doctor’s appointments, surgery, and other necessary medical treatments related to the accident.
• Ambulance Fees: Costs for ambulance transportation to and from the hospital or medical facility.
• Prescription Medications: Covers the cost of medications prescribed as a result of the accident.
• X-Rays and Diagnostic Tests: Costs for necessary diagnostic tests to evaluate injuries.
• Rehabilitation and Therapy: Includes physical therapy or other forms of rehabilitation required for recovery.

FAQ 9: Who is covered under Med Pay?

• You (the Policyholder): If you’re injured while driving your vehicle.
• Your Passengers: Any passengers in your car at the time of the accident.
• Family Members: If they are injured while driving or riding in your car.
• Pedestrians: If you hit a pedestrian, their medical expenses may also be covered.

FAQ 10: What are the differences between Bodily Injury Liability and Med Pay?

Key Differences:

• Coverage Focus: Bodily Injury Liability focuses on covering the costs for other people injured in an accident you caused, while Med Pay focuses on covering medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of fault.
• Legal and Financial Responsibility: Bodily Injury Liability helps cover legal and financial responsibilities you have to others due to your fault, whereas Med Pay addresses your own medical expenses and those of your passengers.
• Applicability: Bodily Injury Liability is a required coverage in most states, while Med Pay is optional and may not be available in all states or from all insurers.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. There is no legal advice being suggested or proffered and the author assumes no responsibility or liability for the actions taken or not taken by the readers based upon such information.