Friday, July 6, 2007

Compare Car Insurance Quotes Against These Factors


It's critical to compare car insurance quotes in order to find the best rate, service and value. Here are four factors you need to look at when shopping for car insurance.

Rate. The rate is the cost of one unit of insurance coverage -- where one unit may equal $1,000 coverage for example. The rate that you pay depends on several things, including your driving record, your credit score, your age, where you live and the vehicle you drive. Most importantly, the rate can be different for you depending upon the car insurance company. This is why you need to get comparison quotes. Take a look at the rate each company is charging you for each quote.

Coverages. Are you getting more coverages for the same cost from one car insurance company over another? If so, this could add value. Of course, to make sure you're getting the most accurate comparisons you should request the same coverages from each agency or company that's quoting you. The same goes for deductible amounts; they should be the same in all quotes.

Financial stability. Since taking out insurance is based on having the need in the future, you want to feel secure that the company will be around to pay any claims if you need them. You can check the financial rating of any car insurance company through several rating agencies including A.M. Best, Weiss, Standard & Poor's, and Fitch and Moody's.

Service. Like anything, sometimes you get what you pay for. Cheap car insurance may not necessarily go along with good service. Did the insurance company representative or agent respond quickly and professionally? Did they listen to your needs and answer your questions? Have you heard anything about their claims paying service? Claims should promptly be settled -- whether it's in your favor or not.

When you start shopping for comparison car insurance quotes, it's good to organize your information. Have your current auto policy in with you, or write down your desired coverages and deductibles on a piece of paper.

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