Which auto insurance is best in Florida?
No matter what kind of car you drive or how long you have been on the road, you need to have sufficient automobile insurance in place. Car insurance can protect you and your property in the event of an accident, but it also helps shield you from liability.
With so many car insurance companies out there, it can be hard to tell which one is the best. They all claim to be, of course, but sorting out the reality from the hype can sometimes be difficult. If you are lucky, the company you choose will provide great customer service and pay your claims fairly. If not, you may need to break up with your current insurer and find a new one that better suits your needs.
There are a number of reasons why a driver would need to change insurance companies. If one of the following scenarios applies to you, it might be time to start shopping for a better deal.
auto insurance 101 – Good reasons to change auto insurance
High Car Insurance Prices
High price is one of the biggest complaints drivers levy against their insurance companies. If your premiums go up like clockwork every year even though you have not filed a claim, it might be time to start shopping around.
It can be helpful to ask friends and colleagues how much they pay for car insurance. Keep in mind, however, that everyone’s experience and driving record is different, and those factors could have a big influence on rates. Even so, the experience of others is a good reference point you can use when you start shopping.
Poor Customer Service by your insurance agent or company
If you can never seem to get a customer service agent on the phone or convince an agent to return your phone calls, you might want to look for a more reliable provider. If the insurance company is unwilling to provide good customer service now, what will they do when you file a claim?
It pays to research customer service information before you settle on a replacement car insurance company. Online ratings provide valuable information about car insurers, as do forums where drivers share their experiences. A number of nonprofit agencies also provide unbiased information on car insurance companies, and they can be very valuable as you look for a replacement policy.
Past Claim Experience
No one wants to file a car insurance claim, but it happens. The whole purpose of carrying car insurance is to protect yourself and your property in the event of an accident. The insurer you contract with should be ready to hold up their end of the bargain by fixing your car, paying repairs for the other driver or writing you a check.
If you filed a claim and found yourself running in circles trying to get what you needed, it might be time to look for another car insurer. A good insurance company should have no problems paying legitimate claims. If your insurer seems less than willing to do so, that should be a big red flag.
Make Sure You Are Covered
No matter what the reason for switching insurance companies, you need to cover yourself before you make a move. You will want to shop around carefully for a replacement policy before canceling your current insurer. You will also need to make sure that replacement policy is fully in place before the cancellation date on the old policy.
Car insurers are required by law to notify the state when you cancel your existing policy. If you do not already have a new policy in place, the state could ask you to turn in your license plate or even suspend your driving privileges. Having your new coverage in place is essential, even if you end up with a slight overlap.
