The process of procuring a new car insurance policy is not too easy. Not only do you need to screen through dozens of different choices to find the one appropriate for your needs, you also need to make sure to examine the fine print closely to avoid getting ripped off by the auto insurance provider. Here are some important things you need to prepare before you consider to purchase an insurance policy for your brand new car.
An Auto Insurance Checklist
One of the first things you should do when considering purchasing a new car insurance policy is to prepare an auto insurance checklist. You will write down on the list all the things you need your auto insurance to do for you. Write and rewrite the list a few times to make sure you have an accurate list of your needs. When you are done you should have a clear idea of your ideal insurance policy. Listed below are some items to help get you started.
Legal Requirements
Your first priority in the checklist should have to do with the legal requirements for new car insurance within the city or state where you live. Different places require different legal requirements. In the US, for example, each state has a specific minimum coverage for the amount of vehicle damage, personal injury and personal fatality.
All auto insurance policies are technically required to adhere to state requirements. But some insurance companies will sometimes try to avoid these requirements and sell packages that are not legal in terms of the coverage they offer. It is always wise to have a list of legal requirements handy when you are shopping for different insurance policies for your new car.
Personal requirements
You also need to include your own personal requirements. These requirements have to do with auto insurance values that you feel are appropriate for your situation. A lot of people never really know what their personal requirements when deciding on new car insurance because they do not want to think about the unwanted things that might happen to them and their car. While it is understandable that you would rather not think about unpleasant things, you need to be prepared for anything that might happen to you and your car. Think of the worst thing possible and think about the ideal insurance coverage that you would like to have. Add your ideal coverage under personal requirements.
You can then proceed to add other requirements to your checklist based on the two requirements above.
