How to Buy Auto Insurance Online - Top Tips for Saving Big Bucks


Looking to buy auto insurance online? Want to get the cheapest insurance rate with the best insurance company? Here's how ...

1. Comparison shop - Insurance rates can vary as much as $1,000 between companies, so the first thing you need to do is get quotes at an insurance comparison site before you buy auto insurance online. (See links below)

2. Increase your deductible - Raising your deductible by a couple of hundred dollars can save you up to 50% on your insurance premium.

3. Drop your collision and comprehensive coverage - If the cost of collision and comprehensive coverage for an older car is more than the cost of repairing that car, consider dropping these coverages.

4. Bundle your insurance - Including your auto insurance with your homeowners insurance can save you 15%.

5. Use one company - If you have two or more cars you can save up to 15% by insuring them with the same company.

6. Drop duplicate coverage - Eliminate your medical coverage if you're already covered under you heath insurance policy, and drop towing coverage if you're covered by AAA.

7. Install a security device - Most insurance companies will give you a discount if you install a car alarm or other anti-theft device.

8. Request discounts - Ask your insurer what discounts are available and take advantage of them. Get all the discounts you're entitled to for such items as automatic seat belts, airbags, and anti-lock brakes.

9. Check ratings - You're not saving a dime if your insurance company won't pay your claim. I recommend going to epinions.com to see what actual customers have to say about various auto insurance companies and how they pay their claims.

The Real Facts Surrounding Auto Insurance Claims


A car accident can be a scary time in anyone’s life. Even if the damage is minimal there is a police report to file, the other driver to deal with and an auto insurance claim to file. If it is your first accident you may find yourself overwhelmed and unsure what to do first. Fortunately filing a claim is a step by step process that is relatively simple to learn and understand.

The success of your auto insurance claim will be determined by many factors. What you say and do at the scene of the accident, the completeness and accuracy of the police report, the accuracy of information that you receive from the other driver and the speed with which you make the insurance report can all affect your ultimate claim results.

At the Scene Never admit fault. In most jurisdictions “relative fault” comes into play for insurance purposes. Even if you clearly did something wrong, the other driver is obligated to try to avoid hitting you. If he did not do everything possible to avoid the accident then he may be partially at fault. Relative fault is complicated and best left to experts to determine. Simply stick to the facts and be honest but avoid discussions of fault.

Make sure to get the other driver’s full name, vehicle information and complete insurance information, as well as a contact number. Insist on a police report even if there is only minor damage. Write a statement for your own records at the scene if possible or as soon as you get home.

You should report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Your insurer will send you forms which must be accurately completed. Be sure to call the insurance company if you need any help with the forms, as these forms will be the primary documents used to investigate your claim. The insurer may also request the police report and the other driver’s insurance information. The next steps will depend on the insurance company’s determination of fault, their normal procedures, and the type of insurance you have.

If the other driver is determined to be at fault then his insurance company may offer you a quick settlement, especially if you were injured. Take time to review the settlement offer and if possible, have an attorney look it over. You will need to make the determination as to whether the offer is fair and reasonable. Your other option is a lawsuit, which can be costly and time consuming. Only you and your attorney can decide which choice is right for you.

Although a car accident and the accompanying paperwork can be scary and intimidating, the actual process of filing a claim is a step by step and relatively simple process. Follow the above tips and do not hesitate to ask questions. You will be successful in filing your auto insurance claim.