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All About Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Insurance

June 9, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

underinsured motorist insurance

It can be scary thinking about a potential car crash, especially if you don’t have enough to cover the damages. But it’s even worse when the other person causes the accident and can’t afford your vehicle and injuries.

How does your family recover from the crash, tend to its wounds, and fix a totaled car?

Most states require uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage to give your family peace of mind during at fault crashes. Instead of paying these expenses yourself, a portion of your car insurance covers the excess.

Read more about how auto insurance carriers cover your family with uninsured and underinsured motorist insurance.

What is Uninsured and Underinsured Coverage?

While states may require them as a part of minimum car insurance protection, both differ from each other.

They’ll pay for unexpected accident expenses the other driver caused, but the coverage types apply depending on how much insurance the at fault driver has.

Again, these protections exist outside of the general collision coverage and liability coverage where you could have caused the crash.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

You can protect your kids, vehicle, property, and more when the opposing party doesn’t have any car insurance. The carrier covers these bills up to the amount of coverage on your policy.

Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Underinsured motorist coverage is a similar protection that helps pay for car accident expenses you didn’t cause.

The other driver does have car insurance but not enough bodily injury or property liability protection to pay for your losses. This rings true in major car crashes where an ambulance sends you straight to the ER.

How Does Uninsured and Underinsured Coverage Work?

You’ll receive payment for economic and non-economic damages in a car crash from uninsured and underinsured coverage. However, each protection works in driving situations based on whether the other driver has insurance and how much they have.

Uninsured Scenario

For example, a reckless driver might shoot through a red light and slam into your vehicle. It’s only after ripping off the door that you come to find out they have no car policy.

As a result, you’ll receive $50,000 for injuries and repairs if the underinsured motorist coverage limits are high enough.

Underinsured Scenario

Breaking your neck in an accident with an 18-wheeler, they might only have Arizona’s minimum car insurance limits and not have enough for your surgery and ambulance ride.

How underinsured motorist coverage works in this case is paying the difference. If they only had $25,000 in bodily injury liability and the bill was $75,000, your policy would give $50,000 if that is your protection amount.

Does the State of Arizona Require Uninsured and Underinsured Coverage?

Many states force drivers to carry underinsured and uninsured motorist insurance as a part of minimum car coverage. They ensure you can afford to get hit by an uninsured driver and that the at fault party compensates you for pain and suffering.

In Arizona, this is not the case. You can get away without purchasing either coverage and have a cheaper payment each month.

The trade-off is not having protection when an uninsured or underinsured driver crashes into you. 1 in 8 drivers on the road are uninsured, so there’s a good shot you could deal with this challenging predicament.

How Stacking Works

You might have heard of some families stacking car insurance if they had multiple cars on the same policies, whether they were teenagers or collector cars.

They do it as a cheaper way to afford underinsured and uninsured coverage and double the protection amount.

We can tell you that it’s not possible to pull this off in Arizona, and carriers prevent you from doing this. The great news is you can still get plenty of protection for an affordable rate if you work with an experienced agent or broker.

How Much Does Uninsured and Underinsured Coverage Cost?

Many drivers we work with want to know how much uninsured motorist coverage costs and how much they’ll pay for underinsured protection.

On average, you’ll pay an extra $33 to $76 per year for $25,000 to $50,000 in protection amounts. And then most companies ask for $86 to $134 for $100,000 to $300,000 protection amounts.

The price is worth it each year since a single crash costs thousands, even for minor injuries and cosmetic damages. You’ll save more in the long run by paying a small portion of the car policy each month.

How to File for Uninsured and Underinsured Coverage

Car insurance carriers make it easier than ever to file an accident with uninsured and underinsured coverage.

Just like making a claim for motorist property damage coverage or personal injuries, you’ll give the insurance company a call. Let them know you got in a wreck that the other driver caused and provide a copy of the police report if it’s available.

Your injuries and vehicle damage may progress over the next several months, so the compensation process may take a while. But the insurance adjuster will send a proposed amount and cover what you deserve.

We recommend working with an auto accident attorney in major car crashes. The total settlement can be hundreds of thousands of dollars and it’s best for a trained lawyer to fight for your highest settlement.

Get Covered When It’s Not Your Fault

At-fault accidents caused by the other driver are not something you can control. It’s unfair to suffer life-threatening injuries and vehicle damage from someone else’s recklessness.

And it’s even more of an insult when they can’t pay for their wrongs.

Our team specializes in finding you the cheapest underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage in Arizona.

We compare over 40 car policies for other coverage types like property liability insurance, bodily injury insurance, and collision insurance. It’s our job to find you the cheapest policy all-around with the most protection.

To speak with an experienced broker and hear a few numbers, call our friendly team today. You can reach us at (520)-836-3244, and we’ll reach back as soon as possible.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance

Why Is My Car Insurance Rate Increasing?

May 19, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

car insurance rate increase

It’s frustrating to get your monthly auto insurance bill in the mailbox and see it increase year by year. In most cases, you may never have had an accident that was your fault or even filed a claim at all.

While inflation and current trends have an effect on car insurance rates, you may still be experiencing incredible uncertainty during peacetime.

Fighting car insurance rates can feel daunting when the variables for change seem out of your control.

Our team believes understanding what causes car rate increases will help you understand how to move forward. Listen as we explain why your car rate is increasing and what to do about it.

Reasons for a Car Rate Increase

Sadly, auto insurance companies change their rates according to factors you can’t often control.

The car rate can be a reasonable amount one day and shoot up the next simply from being the victim of an accident. Or just by going through everyday life.

It’s crucial to be aware of these factors that agents take into consideration. That way, you can choose to fight back and get a lower auto insurance rate.

Moving violations and speeding tickets

You would think that car insurance companies only increase your monthly bill if you got into an accident. But that pointless speeding ticket you got running late to work also plays a factor in the premium.

Carriers track your motor vehicle report and determine you as a greater risk the more violations you have. Thankfully, they don’t count pesky parking tickets, but you should try your best to keep a clean record.

Both at-fault and not-at-fault accidents

It makes sense that a car insurance company would raise your rate for repeated accidents. But what if the accident wasn’t your fault and the other guy didn’t slam his brakes on time?

The insurance company will still raise your rate even if you were the victim of a tragic accident. They predict with statistical data that people caught in 1 no-fault car crash are likely to get into another, making you a liability.

Age

Watch out for an increase in insurance costs if you’re a teenage driver or over the age of 60. You’re considered a higher risk, even if you’ve had proper driving instruction or been driving your entire life.

Insurance companies paint a broad brush and assume that all teenagers are reckless drivers and that senior drivers have lost the capacity to operate a vehicle.

Comprehensive claims

Submitting a comprehensive claim adds fuel to the fire, depending on where you live. Areas with higher rates of theft, vandalism, natural disasters, etc. raise your car insurance rate as a result.

You can’t control when the business next door gets robbed and your vehicle gets caught in the crossfire. Property damage and repair costs are a part of having comprehensive vehicle protection.

But the car insurance company will still ding you in rising car insurance premiums for someone else’s reckless actions in your state.

Auto claims in your area

Despite a clean driving record with no accidents and claims, you can still suffer from an expensive rate. Auto carriers can determine your area has patterns of vehicle accidents and deem the area as high risk.

Sadly, your family will pay for someone else texting while driving or someone else flying through bumper-to-bumper traffic while putting makeup on.

Moving

Similar to claims in your area, the insurance company drives up the monthly premium if you move somewhere else with a high risk of accidents and comprehensive claims.

This is different from obtaining a new policy from moving to a different state. If you’re in-state and changing addresses, be aware that your carrier knows about it. They may penalize you for it.

Insurance score changes

Correlation data show that most people with poorer credit scores have a higher chance of submitting a claim. That means you’ll take a hit based on financial data that isn’t concretely tied to insuring your car.

Many states ban companies from adjusting your rate due to credit scores. But these carriers still consider the number by creating your insurance score based on it.

Gaps in insurance coverage

Difficult life circumstances may create a lapse in insurance. However, you’ll still have to deal with the increased rate, even if the reason was legitimate.

How to Keep Auto Insurance Premiums Lower

While your car rate situation may seem bleak, we know of numerous opportunities that can lower your premium.

Instead of resigning to expensive auto policies, fight back against carriers by finding discounts or switching companies.

Improve credit score

Lowering your credit score will improve your insurance score, which adjusts the monthly payment along with it.

Apply for Carrier Discounts

Being a student driver, having zero accidents, being a homeowner, etc. are common discounts that most companies offer. They help mitigate policy increases and keep your premium down.

Shop for other insurance carriers

It may be time to look into a new carrier for your vehicle. We recommend working with an experienced broker that can compare dozens of policies at once. It’s much more efficient than researching each one of your own.

Fight Car Rate Increases with a Broker

Working with a broker is partnering with a professional who understands the auto insurance market. They keep you informed if inflation, current events, or other variables drive up your premium.

Our caring insurance team can help you find the best auto insurance policy that protects what matters most. We’ll check over 40 of the top carriers and give you a plan that’s cheaper than your current one.

Let us bundle your savings and show you how to find the best policy that balances your budget and coverage needs.

Our team can also help you obtain an insurance quote for homeowners insurance, commercial insurance, and more.

Call our insurance staff at (520)-836-3244 today for lower auto insurance prices.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance, Insurance

Understanding Minimum Coverage Car Insurance

May 3, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

minimum coverage car insurance

Minimum car insurance may be the cheapest coverage on the market, but does it offer enough protection? Your budget may restrict you from purchasing additional insurance and have to stick with the lowest price.

But that doesn’t mean you’ll get a car crash completely covered in an accident.

Taking the risk with minimum car insurance, it can be irritating when the state forces you to purchase unneeded protection.

No matter what situation you’re in, understanding minimum coverage car insurance in Arizona can help. We want you to prepare in case of an auto accident and have peace of mind as you drive.

Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Arizona

Some states don’t have minimum auto insurance requirements, but Arizona is not one of them. It has laid out specific amounts of protection that every licensed driver must have.

No insurer can offer anything less than what Arizona deems as law. But if you don’t have car insurance, take a look at the bare minimum to start with.

Coverage TypeMontetary LimitsBenefits
Bodily Injury Liability$25,000 per person & $50,000 per accidentInjuries of the other driver
Property Damage Liability$15,000Property or car of the other driver

Bodily Injury Liability Coverage

This car insurance protects you from paying for the other driver’s expenses due to injury. If you’re at-fault for the accident, the price for tending to the victim can be thousands of dollars.

And this doesn’t even mention the legal fees you’ll incur if the other person sues for economic and non-economic damages. These can include medical procedures, lost wages, funeral costs, and pain and suffering.

Bodily liability insurance is very useful to pay for damages that others experience in case of an accident.

Property Damage Liability Coverage

While bodily injury takes care of the driver, property damage liability coverage pays for the motor vehicle. It also covers property you damage in an at-fault accident, such as a fence or home.

You should purchase collision coverage to back your personal car. Otherwise, property damage won’t cover it and you may not have a car if the crash is severe enough.

Consequences for Driving with No Insurance in Arizona

Even after understanding the minimum car insurance coverages in Arizona, you may still not feel you need them. They are unnecessary costs, even though you’re a good driver.

Regardless, the state does not discriminate with auto laws, if you’ve never been in an accident or drive a safe vehicle. Everyone must abide by Arizona’s legislation for their auto insurance policy.

We urge you to consider the consequences of not driving with car insurance, as they total more than the price of multiple insurance offenses. It is cheaper in the end to work with an experienced broker to find the cheapest policy rate.

Number of OffensesMonetary FineOther Consequences
1st Offense$5003-month driver’s license, license plate, and registrations suspection
2nd Offense$7506-month driver’s license, license plate, and registrations suspection
3rd & Subsequent Offenses$1,0001-year driver’s license, license plate, and registrations suspection

Will minimum car coverage protect me in an accident?

Imagine you got in a horrible car wreck on the Phoenix interstate. Texting while driving, you sped up too fast and slammed into the mini-van in front of you, spiraling it into the center median. You screech on your brakes and find the person unconscious.

The ambulance arrives and delivers the victim to the hospital for a broken leg, generating a $100,000 medical bill. Then, an auto mechanic arrives to tow their car for repairs. They tell you it’s nearly totaled and going to cost $40,000 to fix.

Your Arizona minimum coverage car coverage would leave you with $115,000 of debt. Bodily injury would pay out $15,000 and property damage would cover $10,000. But that would create an insurmountable bill you may never be able to pay.

Expert Insurance Advice for Coverage Limits

Most insurance experts recommend getting bodily insurance liability that equals the total amount of your assets. This is not a requirement in your state, but can help protect others with plenty of medical payment coverage.

That way, you won’t have to pay for overwhelming someone else’s medical expenses with your home or vehicle. Personal assets will have to pay without any credit options available for an $85,000 hospital bill.

Similarly, it is wise to raise property damage liability coverage amounts well over the minimum $10,000.

We’ve seen the average car prices far above that price and recommend at least $35,000 in coverage. Otherwise, you’d owe thousands on the opposing driver’s vehicle without additional coverage or full coverage car insurance.

Get the Cheapest Comprehensive Car Coverage

Obtaining the lowest rate for a minimum car policy that Arizona requires is the best course of action. And adding on useful coverage, such as collision and comprehensive coverage, is cheaper than you may think.

Instead of getting fined hundreds by the state or paying out in a crash, we recommend looking into other options. They will cover your damages and give drivers in Arizona proof of insurance.

Our local car insurance brokers can compare up to 40+ carriers in an instant. Saving you the time and research, we create custom quotes tailed to what you need.

To get the cheapest car insurance in Casa Grande that fits your budget, give us a call at (520)-836-3244.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance Tagged With: Insurance Coverage, Liablity

How to Compare Car Insurance Rates

April 21, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

Compare Car Insurance Rates

When trying to figure out how to buy car insurance, the options can seem overwhelming. There are many companies to choose from and even more advertisements trying to convince you that one company is better than another. Every auto insurance company has their own auto insurance rates and individual formulas for calculating those rates. Unfortunately, most companies try to keep their formulas very secretive therefore it can be difficult to compare car insurance quotes and assess what factors may make one one quote higher than another.

There are many businesses and websites dedicated to offering comparison tools and evaluations each year, but to be sure that you are getting accurate information, it is advisable to do the research yourself or to hire an independent insurance specialist whose only goal is to find you the best deal.

In order to compare car insurance rates, there are many factors to be aware of. At Gebhardt Insurance Agency, we want you to make the most informed decision to save money. Keep reading to find more information about what factors may be affecting your rate and how to compare auto insurance quotes.

Factors That Affect Your Rate

Driving Record

The number one factor that car insurance companies use to determine your rate is your individual driving record. There are many aspects that play into this factor such as a limited history, claims, at-fault accidents, and other incidents. It is rare to find a company that will not use a checkered history against you when determining rates, but different companies definitely factor this into account in different ways therefore it is worth it to shop around if your driving record is affecting your premiums in a negative way.

Accident Record

At-fault and no-fault claims affect your rates in different amounts but each will play a role in your rate. Typically, having one or more at-fault claims or violations on your record will cause your premiums to increase for at least 1-3 years. Some companies vary in this therefore it is good to assess quotes for future possibilities.

Checking how rates fluctuate with an at-fault accident on your record at one, three, and five years after the incident will give you a good indication of how an accident will affect you. It is sometimes the case that you would actually save money paying for a low-cost accident out of pocket rather than reporting a claim to your insurance because of rate increases.

Many insurance companies now offer accident forgiveness options to be added to policies that will give you a locked rate if you have under 2 no-fault claims on your record.

Incident Record

Incidents may include a DUI, DWI, reckless driving, or any ticket for something similar. Depending on the severity of the incident, your rate may be affected significantly even so much as disqualifying you from purchasing insurance from certain companies. In this case you may need to carry non standard insurance and those options will vary by company. Typically an incident of this nature on your record will affect your rate from 3-10 years therefore it is necessary to assess these options if you have an incident on your record. Sometimes switching companies may lower your rate if you are currently being penalized for an incident.

Age

It is commonly known that age plays a factor in auto insurance rates. Teen drivers notoriously have the highest rates of any age demographic, followed by senior citizen drivers. Adding a teen to your policy or aging can sometimes double your rates therefore changes in your life status should always be cause to go shopping for car insurance.

On the flip side, drivers between the ages of 25-60 may see a drop in rates with a clean driving record therefore reassessing your insurance company when you reach any age milestone could be beneficial.

Gender

Some states such as California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Montana, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Michigan have passed laws banning the practice of using gender as a rate determining factor for car insurance rates.

In other states though, companies use this as a factor based on accident and incident data. For instance, sometimes, adult women drivers are charged a certain percentage higher premium than their male counterparts while the reverse is true for teen drivers. Teenage males are typically deemed more reckless drivers therefore their rates will be higher than a teen girl without violations.

Vehicle

The type of vehicle being insured plays a huge role in your insurance rates. This is because the cost to replace your vehicle in the case of an accident will be much higher with pricier cars. Typically high priced vehicles such as luxury vehicles or trucks incur higher rates than a sedan or used vehicle. This is a factor to consider when comparing auto insurance rates but also when purchasing a vehicle.

Location

Your area of residence or area where your car is driven the most will play a factor in the rate you receive from any insurance company. Typically, larger cities with a higher concentration of people and vehicle traffic will have higher insurance rates across most companies. The other side of the coin is that rates will be lower for areas that are more rural or that have higher foot than vehicle traffic.

Your home type can also play a factor in your rate regardless of city. For instance, insuring a vehicle that is typically parked in a closed garage in a neighborhood is less of a claim risk for insurance companies than a vehicle that is parked in an open lot at an apartment community with higher risk for theft or accidental damage.

Credit Score

The last but not least major factor that is considered when calculating insurance rates is your credit score. Having a good credit score will provide you with better rates because the insurance company sees a higher chance that your bill will be paid on time and in full. Likewise, having a low credit score with a history of non-payment can affect your premiums and options for coverage negatively. This is not necessarily a factor that all companies use though so if you are concerned that your credit score may affect your rates it is wise to check with a few companies for their policies.

Process of Comparing

When beginning the process of comparing insurance rates it is good to start with a plan of action. Knowing these steps and what to expect will be helpful in ensuring a smooth and easy process.

Know Your Information

Now that you know there are many factors that will affect the rate you are offered from different companies, before beginning your search, you should make a list of all your personal information that could affect your rate. Have on hand your information such as age, address, and vehicle make, year, and model. Also having a description and date of any accidents or incidents will help you to ask better questions when comparing rates.

Having a general idea of your credit score ahead of time can also be helpful because working towards building your credit for a few months before switching to a new plan may help you to lock in a better rate.

Before making any comparisons or phone calls it is a great idea to write down any questions or concerns you may have that way you do not leave anything out when assessing and you will know that you were thorough in your inquiries.

Choose Coverage

Most places have a state minimum of liability coverage that every motor vehicle must carry without exception. It is wise to do your homework and research what your state requires before having conversations about the coverage you need.

Arizona state law requires that drivers carry a minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident in bodily injury liability insurance and a property damage liability coverage of $15,000 minimum.

These laws do sometimes change so if you have not assessed your coverage in sometime it is wise to look over your coverage and decide if you need to make some changes.

Collect and Compare

Unfortunately, collecting rate information and comparing prices is the most tedious part of the process of shopping for insurance. If you wish to truly assess all of your own personal information this may require making many phone calls to go through the process of collecting quotes from every insurance company that is popular in your local area.

It is a good idea to seek out which companies are most popular with your friends and neighbors and start from there, you may find that rate differences are negligible or easy to choose from.

Gebhardt Insurance Group

At Gebhardt Insurance Group it is our desire to earn your trust by finding the best rate available for you and your insurance needs. We do not sell our own insurance but shop most major and local companies to compare prices for your specific needs.

If you would like to compare insurance plans but do not wish to do the legwork yourself, we would love to partner with you. Call us at (520) 836-3244 to begin the conversation of buying car insurance today.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance, Insurance

Types of Car Insurance Coverage in Arizona

March 21, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

types of car insurance

It is a careful balance to choose the right auto insurance policy that meets your needs and fits within your budget. You must obtain the legally required minimum coverage levels, but they stop short if your family is injured in a car crash.

But you cannot have full peace of mind without protection for your vehicle, passengers, and property. They can sustain significant damage and will not receive financial compensation if you don’t buy additional coverage.

You have to decide whether to prioritize low premiums or a low deductible (the amount you pay before the coverage kicks in). And you have to choose the types of expenses and situations your policy will cover.

There are many types of coverage that you can include in your auto insurance policy. Some of these are optional coverages and some are mandatory. You can review them to get a better idea of how much car insurance you need.

Below we will go through the different types of car insurance.

Liability Coverage

While there are many optional coverages, liability insurance is required across the United States.

Liability insurance covers damage to others in car accidents where it is determined that you are at fault. There are two major types of liability insurance: property and medical.

In Arizona, there are mandatory minimum coverage levels for both of these:

  • $25,000 in bodily injury liability for one person or $50,000 for multiple people
  • $15,000 in property damage liability

These two numbers are the baseline of any Arizona auto insurance policy. If you utilize the minimums, you would need to pay out of pocket for any medical expenses or repair costs above those thresholds.

The state can suspend your vehicle registration and even your driver’s license without this coverage.

Collision Coverage

Regardless of who is the at-fault driver, collision insurance pays for your medical bills and to repair or replace your vehicle. Collision coverage would protect you if you crash into another vehicle or hit a stationary object.

Your insurer will provide a check for the vehicle’s value if you total it (which means that repair costs are more than the vehicle’s worth). Check with your agent or broker to see the policy details and up to what amount the plan will cover.

Leased or financed vehicles often require this type of insurance.
If you know you cannot afford to repair or replace the vehicle, you should purchase collision coverage.

Comprehensive Coverage

While collision coverage protects you in the event of a crash, comprehensive coverage pays for damage to your vehicle in other situations, including natural disasters.

Fire, theft, and severe weather events are a few of the most common situations that comprehensive auto insurance covers.

Comprehensive insurance is optional, but the company will likely require it in the policy if you leased or financed the car.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

A common type of auto insurance is uninsured or underinsured coverage. This goes into effect if someone else causes an accident with you.

They either don’t have any insurance to pay for the damage or don’t hold sufficient coverage to pay for all your expenses.

Even though driving without insurance is illegal, many drivers still do. And many other drivers only have the minimum liability coverage levels.

With that in mind, uninsured and underinsured coverage provides an extra level of protection in accidents where you are not at fault.

Medical Payments Coverage

Another common insurance type is medical payments coverage. In short, this coverage protects you, your passengers, and even family members that were driving the vehicle involved in an accident.

The coverage applies regardless of who the officer determines to be at-fault in the incident.

You can cover medical expenses resulting from an accident with these reimbursable funds. They also cover copays and deductibles of other insurance policies, such as health insurance.

Other Insurance Types

Most insurance companies offer the five coverage types listed above, but those are not the only protections. Below are a few other coverages you may want to consider for your auto insurance policy.

Rental Reimbursement

If you must obtain a rental car or pay for public transportation after filing an insurance claim, rental reimbursement coverage pays for those expenses. This coverage applies while a mechanic repairs your car after an insurance case.

This is helpful for people or families with only one vehicle.

Gap Insurance

Vehicles depreciate over time, and much of that decrease happens the moment you drive one off the car lot.

Auto insurance companies only pay for the vehicle’s actual cash value if a car is totaled, which means it’s possible for a cash payment to be less than what you owe on the car’s lease.

Gap insurance makes up the difference between the balance of your loan and the car is actually worth.

Emergency Roadside Assistance

With emergency roadside assistance, you can receive reimbursement when you call for help if you get a flat tire, run out of gas, or need a tow. This offers peace of mind in the event that you find yourself in any of these situations, which often involve other expenses.

Choosing the Right Auto Insurance Coverage

Every auto insurance policy is different. There are various fixed factors that determine a policy’s price, including the vehicle’s value and the age, gender, and driving record of the vehicle owner.

It’s crucial to understand the different types of auto insurance coverage so you can protect the people and property you care about. While Arizona requires minimum coverage at a low cost, you can still find additional coverage for cheap.

Our team understands every insurance policy is different, and we help you find the plan that works for your needs and budget. As independent insurance specialists, we compare with dozens of insurance carriers and find policies so you don’t have to do the work.

Get a free quote for personalized auto insurance today.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance, Insurance

How Much Car Insurance do I need?

March 14, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

how much car insurance do i need

Car ownership and driving on the road are huge responsibilities. Holding the safety of your vehicle, passengers, and others, it’s natural to want full coverage. However, you may be on a budget or have a difficult time switching to cheap car insurance.

The United States has legal requirements for each state with auto insurance, so getting more is a personal choice. Arizona has its own minimum liability and personal injury coverage, but it will not protect everything in a crash.

We recommend having more than the state standard so you don’t have to fear if you get in an accident. Roadside assistance, collision insurance, and other additions to your policy can bring peace during a stressful car crash.

It’s essential to know the types of insurance available to you, the insurance you are required to carry, and other options you may wish to carry. Then, you can decide how much car insurance you need and work with a broker to get it.

Types of Car Insurance

There are several different types of auto insurances on the market. But they all fall under these four main categories: liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured/underinsured motorist.

These insurance types are essential to understand because each operates differently and covers different scenarios.

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance covers damages you cause on the road to other drivers and their property. This includes medical bills in the case of bodily injury and repair work for vehicle damage. However, it does not cover damage to you or your vehicle.

Our team suggests carrying more than just the minimum liability coverage. It’s the wisest choice so you don’t end up paying out of pocket if you cause an accident.

Collision Insurance

You’ll want to carry collision insurance for the car insurance company to repair or replace your car in an at-fault accident. Most drivers pay for some amount of collision coverage, even though states don’t require it.

In most cases, leasing companies and lienholders ask you to purchase it on a vehicle you don’t own.

Comprehensive Insurance

Comprehensive insurance pays for vehicle damages that a collision with another car or object didn’t cause. These include hail damage, vandalism, theft, flood, or fire. After you agree on a deductible, the insurance company will pay for repairs.

You may decide not to carry any comprehensive coverage but the policy won’t cover your vehicle in the case of bad weather or break-ins.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist

Most states require uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage in situations where the at-fault driver doesn’t have any insurance or enough insurance. It differs from collision and comprehensive coverage to give added protection when your car suffers from someone else’s negligence.

While the opposing driver may not have enough coverage to repair damage to your vehicle or cover your medical bills, an uninsured and underinsured policy will.

Car Insurance Required By Law in Arizona

Because each state has different requirements, it is wise to keep informed of your state’s laws. As a driver in Arizona, it is your responsibility to ensure that you meet the state-required minimums.

The state only requires drivers to carry liability insurance with the following minimum coverage amounts:

  • $25,000 for bodily injury per person
  • $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
  • $15,000 for property damage per accident

These mandatory coverages are pretty low and may only cover part of your vehicle damage in an accident. If you’re found at fault, you’ll have to pay the total amount your car suffered. That means the cost will go straight out of your bank account if it’s higher than the minimum liability insurance.

Arizona has penalties for not carrying at least the minimum amount of coverage. If you are found to be driving without the required coverage, you’ll gain fines and a suspended license. Your consequences increase over time and will not stop until you obtain a policy.

Additional Coverages

There are many additional types of insurance coverage that cover different situations. The following coverages are not required in any state or by most insurance companies but are options you may choose to carry for your own benefit.

Umbrella Insurance

This supplemental insurance is intended to operate as additional liability coverage. You may wish to carry umbrella insurance if your minimum insurance is low or if your chances of incurring liability damages are high.

Having this type of coverage is most important in a lawsuit after a car crash or if you have an expensive vehicle to protect.

Gap Insurance

Gap insurance is necessary to carry if you bought a new vehicle with a financing option recently. The acronym stands for “guaranteed asset protection.”

The amount you still owe on the car loan may be more than what the car is worth if you total it. In that scenario, gap insurance would pay for the difference and put it into your pocket.

Similar to collision insurance, your lienholder may require that you carry this protection as a requirement in your lending agreement.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

This type of insurance is available in Arizona and covers medical bills regardless of who is at fault in an accident. Your carrier delivers the reimbursement after you’ve paid for the damages.

It is a good idea to carry some amount of PIP if you don’t have health insurance or your health insurance coverage is lousy.

Rental Reimbursement

If you are in a car accident, you may still need to drive when mechanics are repairing the vehicle. Rental reimbursement insurance covers the cost of a rental car while you don’t have your vehicle.

You may opt out of this coverage, but it’s smart to carry this protection if you don’t have access to another car. The additional monthly cost of rental reimbursement is not very significant and is a substantial help in an incident.

Need Assistance Finding Coverage?

Knowing how much car insurance coverage to carry can seem overwhelming. Of course, you need to carry the state-required minimums, but how do you decide which additional coverages you should carry for your benefit?

Having all this information and these options may make it difficult to choose, but you do not have to figure it out on your own.

Our professional team of experts is available to walk you through your options and help you make the best choices for your specific lifestyle and circumstances. We can compare with over 40 carriers to give you the amount of car insurance you need at a cheap rate.

If you need to review your current coverage or would like to price match for a new car policy, give us a call today.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance, Insurance

How to Switch Car Insurance

December 13, 2021 by Steve Gebhardt

how to switch car insurance

Believe it or not, changing insurance companies can be a positive experience, especially when it can save money and provide better coverage. Why stay with your current carrier when there are better available policies out on the market? It’s important to do some research and shop wisely to make the right decision.

You can be confident with your new auto insurance and know you’re getting the best rate and protection when you understand how to switch insurers the right way. You need to remember the following information, so you can enter the process prepared.

Why switch car insurance companies?

Almost every state requires drivers to have insurance, and they will force you to get it. An officer can fine or arrest you otherwise, which often costs you more than the monthly premium. However, there are other reasons why you should purchase car insurance that will be beneficial to you and your vehicle.

For example, you can set up auto insurance for your brand new vehicle to ensure free repairs in case of an accident. You can also switch companies if your credit score has increased or decreased, securing you a better deal. There are various other rationales behind switching your car insurance:

  • You moved your residence and find that you are now paying more than you were
  • Your child got their license, or you are adding someone to your auto insurance policy
  • You want to compare auto quotes with other carriers for a better deal
  • You find that you now drive fewer miles, like working remotely from home
  • Your driving record has changed

When to Switch Auto Insurance Companies

You can convert to another car insurance company at any time. This even includes when you have open claims. And if necessary, you can switch multiple times without being penalized.

However, just because you can change doesn’t mean you should change. You may be surprised that your existing plan is better than what you can purchase anywhere else.

For example, there are advantages to staying with the same auto insurers. Some companies give loyalty discounts for sticking with the business. Other companies offer accident forgiveness which prevents your rates from going up your vehicle is in an accident.

How to switch car insurance

Transferring your car insurance is relatively easy, and people do it all the time. However, you want to talk to your current insurer before switching car insurance companies. They may enhance your company’s offer on products and services by finding additional discounts for you. You may be able to negotiate a lower rate and save yourself a lot of research time.

It may be that your current carrier refuses to budge despite price matching other policies. In those cases, you should start with these steps to look for new coverage options.

1). Research the Auto Company

Researching the insurance company you’re interested in may be time-consuming, but it is a necessary part when you want to replace your current policy. We recommend looking at a minimum of three providers to review their customer reviews, customer service experience, reputation in the industry, etc.

It’s also a good idea to inquire about limits and deductibles and any additional or hidden fees. You don’t want to make a quick decision to switch and end up with less coverage. And it doesn’t make sense to start working with an auto insurance company that is dishonest with its customers.

2). Purchase the Best Insurance Coverage for Your Needs

The next step is to purchase the new plan with your needs in mind. Compare the rates and coverage options with as many carriers as you can. Then, you can learn about their monthly rates, premiums, available discounts, etc.

If your current auto insurance policy will expire soon, schedule the new policy to begin at least one day before your current coverage expires. Doing this will avoid any lapses in coverage.

You will be required to show proof of insurance in various circumstances, such as getting stopped by law enforcement or if you are in an accident. In as little a gap as 1 day, you can be considered an uninsured driver. It’s much better to have two car insurance policies for 24 hours than none at all.

3). Cancel Your Previous Car Insurance

Once you have your new insurance coverage in place, it’s time to start the cancellation process for your old policy. Remember to check for any cancellation fees.

Call your company and speak to your agent or customer service department to cancel your coverage. It’s a smart idea to write down who you speak to on the call and the date and time. However, you should not just stop paying for your old car insurance policy without officially canceling it.

If you paid for your policy in full at the start of a period, you should get a refund for the unused portion. A reminder that before you end your policy, be sure you receive documentation that your new plan is fully in effect.

4). Update Your Proof of Insurance

The final step is to print out your insurance ID card or download an app to access it. Most states allow you to show a digital ID card if you get pulled over. However, make sure you have a hard copy so you can get to it whether you have cellular service or not. If you get stopped by the police and can’t produce a valid form of car insurance, they will fine you.

And add one more item to add to your “to-do” list. If you have a car loan or lease, inform the lender of your new insurance coverage right away. Their name as a financier is on your old car insurance, which means your old insurance company automatically notifies your lender of the cancellation.

Getting the Best Deal for Your Car Insurance

In a perfect world, your auto insurance company would offer both outstanding customer service and reasonable policy rates. But unfortunately, that is not always the case.

When it’s time to look for new vehicle insurance, the necessary time and research can be a hassle. That’s when you want to turn to an independent company to do the intensive work on your behalf. Brokers are an excellent option to compare dozens of quotes at once, so you know you’re getting the best deal.

Purchasing Through an Independent Insurance Agency

We customize our car insurance switch recommendations to fit your needs and secure you the best auto insurance policy. When your car or motorcycle rates increase or life changes occur, we have a policy that will work for your driving needs.

We have proudly served the Casa Grande and now Maricopa communities since 2004. Our professional agents will shop the nation’s top carriers to find you the absolute best insurance rates with the best coverage to meet your needs.

Call or text us today at (520) 836-3244 to get more information on state requirements and insurance providers. We would love to get you started comparing policies so you know you have the optimum plan without paying too high of a price.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance

How to Price Match Car Insurance

November 5, 2021 by Steve Gebhardt

how to price match car insurance

Price matching auto insurance is a great option for you to compare dozens of quotes at once to obtain the best monthly rate. Whether you do it by yourself or work with an insurance broker, you can look at quotes beyond the one a big-name company will send. You can be confident you’re getting a good deal and working with an insurer you trust rather than one that treats you as a corporate statistic.

The auto market is competitive, and you may not have ever price matched your car insurance before. We want to help you compare policies from A+ rated companies and find the policy that meets your family’s vehicle needs.

What is Auto Insurance Price Matching?

Have you ever been to Walmart and seen their Price Match Policy? They commit to matching the base price of a competitor for an item they have in store. The company’s goal is to give you the best price while shopping and honor your business for choosing them. This same concept is how auto insurance companies price match insurance rates.

Car insurance comparison works by you negotiating better rates or bringing a similar policy quote with a lower payment to your current insurance company. A company worth keeping will respect your choice of them over a competitor and discuss potential discounts. They will do whatever they can to retain you as a lifetime client.

However, consider that an insurance company may have already offered you the lowest rate possible, even after insurance discounts. Their policy team will personalize your quote depending upon your finances, vehicle type, etc. Or they could be an industry-dominating name trying to get away with ripping you off.

How To Get Your Best Auto Quote?

You can start price-matching against your current company by shopping around for other car insurance quotes. The best way to do this is to work with a local insurance broker, who can compare car insurance carriers at once rather than you calling each one individually. They also consider local insurers in their calculations that online quote comparisons could miss. You can take control of your car insurance policy in either case and know you’re getting the best deal on the market.

The auto insurance’s monthly payment should not be your only consideration: coverage should be too. Often, more expensive policies have greater coverage for additional protection you may want for your family. So you should ensure during price matching that you find a carrier that offers the price and coverage you need. That way, you’ll be ready to file a claim with a policy you can be confident about.

There are other things you should look for while comparing different car insurance companies. These include their customer service rating and whether the companies offer discounts or perks. While they aren’t directly related to your insurance plan, they are crucial to partnering with a business you trust.

How to Negotiate Car Insurance Price Matching

Searching online auto insurance price matching tools for cheaper rates may be simple, but you may be struggling with how to negotiate. There can be intimidation if you are approaching a big-name corporation at a different rate. However, we know these tips will help you crack open the door with your carrier and either kick it open or close it.

  • First, scout for better rates from various providers that suit your individual vehicle needs. It is now very easy and quick to compare quotes online. Be sure the policies you get are for the same amount of coverage that you have with your current carrier.
  • Contact your insurance company and tell them you want your insurance premium reviewed since you found lower rates from competitors. You should ask if they will match the price that other insurers offer. Or see if they can at least offer you a lower rate than what you’re paying.
  • If your company is unwilling to decrease your car insurance rate, we advise switching to someone else. They will give you confidence that you are receiving a cheaper policy with the same protection.

Note that the best time to begin your price match negotiations is when your current policy is up for renewal.

Other Ways to Save Money on Your Auto Insurance

We hope you and your family obtain the coverage and price you need to protect those who matter most. While you can negotiate with your current insurer and check quotes on your own, we can take that burden off your shoulders. We compare policies from over 40 A+ rated carriers and personalize a car insurance package to your needs.

To learn how we can get you the cheapest quote or bundle multiple insurance types, call our office at (520).836.3244. We work with thousands of clients in Maricopa and Casa Grande and would love the chance to earn your trust.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance

A Complete Guide to Property Damage Liability for Car Insurance

September 6, 2021 by Steve Gebhardt

property damage liability car insurance

Have you been involved in a car accident where you were at fault and caused damages to someone else? Most likely, you paid for the damages you caused the other motorist, as well as additional fees or expenses they incurred. If you didn’t have property damage liability coverage at the time, you would have paid out of pocket.

Did you know that you could have avoided those expenses and have your auto insurance carrier cover the costs, including medical expenses? Your property damage liability insurance covers the price, which is why it is a great solution to pay for accidental damages.

What is Property Damage Liability in Car Insurance?

Property damage liability car insurance or property damage car insurance is similar to your uninsured motorist insurance coverage. However, in this case, it pays for damages you cause to other people’s cars or property with your vehicle. It also covers medical expenses if the crash involved a bodily injury.

According to law, you will bear the cost of any damage to someone else if the officer deems you to be at fault. All states in the U.S. except New Hampshire and Virginia mandate that drivers carry property damage liability coverage.

This insurance covers damages ranging from slight bruises to major bodily injuries, car damages, and personal properties, such as a fence. Keep in mind that your insurance company will only pay certain coverage limits as specified in your policy. Anything beyond that will have to come out of your pocket. Also, note that this type of insurance does not pay for damages you caused to your vehicle.

For that, you need to purchase collision coverage insurance or uninsured/ underinsured motorist insurance.

Two Main Components of Property Damage Liability Car Insurance

Bodily Injury Liability Coverage

Should you get into an accident and cause bodily injury to someone else, property damage insurance covers the financial liability you’ll likely face. As long as the judge rules you at fault for the hurt you caused the other person, property damage liability car insurance will fund taking care of that person’s injuries. Bodily injury liability coverage encompasses medical expenses, recovery treatments, and lost income from a business closure or inability to work while they were recovering. It could also cover funeral costs if the person died.

Property Damage Liability Coverage

Property damage liability coverage supplies cash for damage you brought upon someone else’s vehicle, property, etc. This includes all exterior property such as houses, fences, lamposts, and cars while also supplying cash for personal belongings inside the victim’s vehicle. In addition, if the person sues you after the accident, property damage car insurance can cover legal fees or court fees.

What is the Cost of Property Damage Liability Insurance?

The cost of property damage liability insurance mostly depends on your coverage limit. The higher your coverage limits, the more you will pay. Generally, the liability limits for property damage coverage could range from $5,000 to $100,000, depending on your location and the insurance options your carrier gives you. With higher coverage limits, you can expect to pay more but also receive greater protection.

What is the Lowest Amount in Property Damage Liability in Car Insurance?

Each state requires drivers to carry a minimum limit for property damage liability insurance, and it differs from state to state. In California, for instance, drivers are required to maintain a minimum amount of $5,000 for property damage liability coverage. Other states like Texas and South Carolina have a $25,000 minimum amount property damage liability coverage amount.

Keep in mind that the limit is the maximum amount the insurance company will be willing to pay out in the event of an accident where you are at fault.

How Much Property Damage Liability Insurance Should You Have?

In most cases, the smallest limits the law allows are simply the bare minimum. You may need to opt for higher limits if you want to get adequate coverage. For instance, if you accidentally hit another vehicle carrying 3 passengers and injure all 3 people, you will be looking at $300,000 to $400,000 in medical bills, aside from the fact that you will still pay to repair the car.

As a result, experts advise that you buy insurance that will give you the best coverage. You should consider purchasing additional coverage if you have more to lose. The reality is that the affected persons might sue for the excess if your insurance policy limit cannot pay for all the damages.

The more assets or liquidity you have, the more they’ll come after, which could quickly lead to bankruptcy. As a rule of thumb, you’ll want your property damage insurance liability to be enough to cover your net worth.

Our Experienced Agents Know Property Damage Liability Coverage

If you ever crash into someone else’s vehicle or property, your immediate option is not to pay expensive bills out of pocket. With Property Damage Liability Coverage for car insurance, the plan is to supply many of these fees and prevent you from paying the price. It is a customizable insurance program that allows you to increase or decrease your coverage to ensure you are financially protected.

For more guidance and professional advice regarding property damage liability insurance, we encourage you to contact us at Gebhardt Insurance Group today at (520) 836-3244. We will be happy to provide you all the help you need.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance

Can I Change Car Insurance Before Renewal Date?

August 9, 2021 by Steve Gebhardt

can i change car insurance before renewal date

Clients often ask auto insurance companies, “Can I change my car insurance before the renewal date?” Understandably, folks could make a request to their insurance agent for the cancellation process to coverage limits, lapses in coverage, accident forgiveness, etc.

Although company customer services allow you to change your policy before the renewal date, there are some fine lines you need to cross-check before making the switch. You may even be surprised to realize that your current carrier offers you the best coverage options.

Weigh your options properly, shop around, and ensure it is the right move to switch before changing insurance carriers.

Is it a good idea to switch auto insurance companies?

While switching car insurance companies can help you save money, there may be some beneficial reasons to stick with your current insurer. The cancellation fees may not be worth the trouble if you cancel before the end of your current policy. Consider the benefits the new plan will give you compared to the company you intend to switch to.

Also, if you were recently involved in an accident or convicted of violating a traffic regulation, then it is not wise to switch. You could lose money in the process. Although your insurance company will likely recalculate your premium rate at the renewal time, you will have to pay the old rate before the accident if you stayed. If you switch right after the accident, your rate will likely go up.

Moving forward, we’ll look at when the excellent time to switch auto insurance companies is. But keep in mind that it would be best if you took some time to consider the pros and cons of changing your car insurance before renewal.

When is a good time to change my car insurance company?

This is the next most important question in the process since there is no best time to change your car insurance. However, what matters most is the reason for the switch, which, if compelling, determines whether it is wise.

People switch auto insurance companies right after they’ve filed a claim, got married, changed zip code, bought a new car, or found better coverage options. Here are some reasons why you may want to switch to a different company or stick with the same insurance agent (you may also consider them as points to consider before switching):

Relocation/Changing Zip Code

When you change to a different zip code, you may use the opportunity to search for cheaper, better insurance coverage. If the rates, along with the products and services, are better, then it makes even more sense to switch.

Cancellation fees

Your current insurance company may process your policy cancellation without charges. In some other cases, your present auto insurance provider will charge you a cancellation fee if you cancel before the renewal date or expiration of your current policy. It is a flat fee with the average ranging from $30-$50. You need to consider these fees, especially if saving money is one of your reasons for switching.

Paying $40 in cancellation fees and saving only $35 doesn’t make sense, so be sure to check out the costs before signing the papers. In that case, you need to wait it out with your current provider while you go back and research which policies offer the best option to save money.

After filing a claim

Switching car insurance companies might be difficult to achieve if you’ve just filed a claim. If the claim has not been settled and paid, the new insurance agent may not be able to calculate your new policy rate correctly. To cover for the uncertainty, your new policy rate may be higher than the old one.

In this instance, again, it is not a good time to switch to a new company, so wait until the claim clears.

Accident forgiveness

Accident forgiveness is another factor that might make you reconsider leaving your current insurer. How close are you to enjoying the benefit of accident forgiveness? Some companies have robust products and services, including a short time frame for accident forgiveness qualification that you could take advantage of.

Some companies offer accident forgiveness after 3 years of paying your premium. In some companies, you must maintain an average of 5.5-years worth of claim-free coverage before you can claim accident forgiveness. Other insurance agents might even ask that you stay for as long as 10 years before accident forgiveness is available to you.

Adding a driver/a new car

Different insurance companies offer different rates. When you get a new car or are about to add a new drive, say your teenager, you may seize the chance to sample other offers. It is even possible you get student discounts or a different rate elsewhere.

Getting married

Major life events like marriage, moving, buying a home, and bearing children will have a significant impact on your insurance policy. In these cases, you should look out for the best offer on an affordable insurance premium. And if you do find a better offer, you can proceed to change your car insurance right away before the renewal date.

Hidden fees

Before jumping on that perfect offer, inquire about the fees, limits, deductibles, terms, and conditions. There have been cases where people made hasty car insurance switch decisions and ended up with less coverage. If there are cancellation fees, make sure they’re spelled out clearly.

In other cases, the fees may be extremely high as with some life insurance plans. If you pay annually, will you be refunded unused premiums? Are there any coverage gaps? If you’ve checked all of these, and you’re sure the coast is clear, you may go ahead to make the switch.

Getting the best deal for your car insurance

Are you looking to change your auto insurance before the renewal date, and you’re unsure which option is best for you? Did you recently move into Arizona, and you’d like to switch to a new insurance agent? If you answered yes to any or both of these questions, we are happy to help you make the best decision.

At Gebhardt Insurance Group, we offer various car insurance coverage options, allowing you to choose what works best for you. Schedule an appointment today with any of our experienced insurance industry staff or call us today at 520-836-3244.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance

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    Casa Grande Insurance Agency Accessibility Statement

    Accessibility Statement

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