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When to Switch Auto Insurance

March 10, 2023 by Steve Gebhardt

when to switch auto insurance

Car insurance coverage can be a Catch-22. Sometimes you can’t afford it, but you definitely can’t afford to live without it. Car insurance premiums are often in a state of change. Sometimes up and sometimes down, it can be challenging to keep track of your rate and if it is the best around.

Whether you are the one who makes a change, something happens to you, or your current provider simply increases their car insurance rates, it is always a good idea to review your coverage to see if you can save money by making a switch.

Here are several instances where it is likely that switching car insurance companies can benefit you:

When You Move

Where you live affects your insurance rate. This is because living in a highly populated area puts you at higher risk for filing a car insurance claim than living in a less populated area. Therefore, your insurance company will charge you more or less depending on that risk.

When you have a change of address, you have to notify your car insurance carrier so they know where your vehicle is typically parked and so they know where to send your mail. Notifying them may trigger a rate decrease, but it could also trigger an increase if you are moving further into the city. If this is the case, it is wise to compare car insurance quotes to see if a new company might offer you a lower rate at your new address.

When Your Credit Improves

Have you recently made great strides at paying down debt? If so, your credit score may have gone up, and that could decrease your insurance rate significantly. Studies have shown that a person’s credit score correlates to how likely they are to use their car insurance. The lower the score, the more likely a company will have to pay out on a claim. Therefore, many insurance companies pass that risk on to the driver by charging higher premiums to those with lower scores. And though your lower credit score may have nothing to do with your car or driving habits, most insurance companies won’t take the chance.

But the good news is that this means a higher score indicates a lower chance that you will file a claim, and therefore insurance companies will often offer lower rates to those with good or excellent credit scores. A few points can make a big difference to your wallet, therefore, if your score has improved any, you should compare rates.

When There’s a Change in Driving Records

If you have recently gotten married, celebrated a teenager getting their license, been in a car accident, gotten a speeding ticket, or other life circumstance that affects your insurance policy, this can trigger a change in your insurance rate. In some cases, these changes may benefit your rates, such as getting married. But changes, such as adding an inexperienced driver, or being involved in a car accident that required you to open a claim, can drive up your costs.

If you are unhappy with the rates of your current coverage options, you can look around and compare auto insurers’ policies for these types of changes. A switch could bring down your premium or at least keep it the same. But, sometimes, loyalty discounts can offset an increase, so it is smart to evaluate all your options.

When You Can Bundle

Did you just buy a house? If so, this is a great time to check out the cost of your insurance! Many companies will give a discount if you bundle your home insurance with auto insurance, and the savings can be significant. That may mean insuring with your current insurance company, but it could also mean switching to a new company with the best rates for both.

When You Have Special Circumstances

Do you collect classic cars? Or perhaps you enjoy cruising down the highway on two wheels? If so, your insurance costs could be more than that of your neighbor who drives a mini-van. Claims involving expensive cars, specialty vehicles, and vehicles where potential accidents are likely to involve higher hospital bills will be more costly for the insurance company. Therefore they charge you more. But, if these vehicles are only used as a secondary source of transportation, some insurance companies may have particular policies for these special cases that actually cost less than standard insurance. Therefore, with each purchase of any new vehicle type, it’s wise to check available rates and policies.

Tips for the Switch

If you switch to a new insurance provider, there are a few steps you should take to ensure the process runs smoothly.

Call Your Provider

It’s wise to call your current insurance provider before making any decisions. Some insurance companies have an early cancellation fee that you can avoid paying by waiting until it is time to renew. Additionally, sometimes a company may offer a discount or extra benefits to keep your business.

Dont Cancel Yet

If you’re set on switching, it’s crucial to ensure that you don’t cancel your current coverage until your new coverage kicks in to avoid a lapse in coverage. Even a few days of a gap in coverage can make a costly mistake if you happen to need your insurance sometime within that gap.

Notify Your Lender

Most leasing agents require proof of insurance coverage. To avoid a penalty with your lender, it’s best to let them know as soon as possible that you are making a switch in coverage. Typically, your current lender will send a notification letter if you cancel a policy, but it is always smart to confirm.

Get Documentation

Ensure that the new insurance and the previous insurance companies both send you proper notification of the start of service and cancellation. Having these in hand will help you if you run into issues such as incorrect charges, breaches of contract, or other scenarios where having proof in writing is helpful.

Don’t have Time to Shop Around for Better Rates?

Let our team at Gebhardt do it for you! We know it can be time-consuming to research all of your options, especially when you have abnormal circumstances. Our team has insider information and relationships with many different insurance providers. We can do the work to find out if a popular option such as Progressive, AAA, State Farm, or another provider is best for you!

Call us today to begin the process of switching insurance providers.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance

What is the Best Insurance for Teen Drivers?

December 15, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

best insurance for teen drivers

Are you a parent with a child who is fast approaching the ability to drive on their own? Teaching your teen how to drive a car is a huge milestone, probably one that you did not realize you would reach so quickly. You may be eager and excited to take on this task. But more often than not, the excitement is met with anxiety and fear because trusting your baby alone on the road behind a giant machine is extremely nerve-wracking. It is nerve-wracking because you fear for their safety, and you may also fear for your wallet.

Rumor has it that insuring your teen driver can be pretty expensive. And unfortunately for you as the parent, that rumor is true. Teen drivers are some of the most expensive people to insure on the road. But the good news is that you are not simply stuck with a specific rate and at the whim of a single auto insurance company. You have options when searching car insurance rates for your teen driver.

To help you take some of the sting out of reaching the milestone of being the parent of a teenage driver, we have put together some information to help you find an affordable car insurance quote. Read more to find out what information you need to find the best car insurance company for your teen driver.

What Affects Car Insurance Rates?

Before looking at what it costs to insure a teenage driver, it’s important to take a look at the factors that many insurance companies use to determine insurance rates. This will help you to know better what kinds of questions to ask when looking for quotes. It will also give you a better understanding of areas where you may be able to make decisions to increase or decrease your rate versus areas where your actions simply have no effect.

Coverage

The most significant factor that affects your car insurance rate is the type of coverage you choose to carry. Every state has insurance requirements that you must meet to drive on the road legally. In Arizona, the only state requirement is that you must carry liability insurance in the amounts:

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

Beyond liability, there are many options for additional coverage, such as comprehensive coverage and collision coverage, underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage, and additions such as roadside coverage, gap insurance, medical payment coverage, and more. Each coverage you choose to add to your policy will increase your rates. While some coverages may only increase your payments by a few dollars each month, others can add significant costs, therefore, it is vital to choose wisely when selecting coverage.

Driving Record

The driving record of drivers on your policy plays a significant role in the type of insurance rate you are offered. Do you have multiple at-fault accidents on record? Has an insurance company had to pay total replacement costs for vehicle damage? Do you have several claims on your policy? If so, each claim can cause your rates to rise. This is because if you have a history of accidents or traffic tickets, you are an increased risk to insure, therefore your insurance company will offset their potential costs by charging you more for your coverage since there is a higher chance that they will have to pay out on your policy due to your driving habits.

Location

The location of where you do the majority of your driving will play a role in your car insurance rates. If you live and work in a rural area, you are typically at lower risk of being involved in an accident, therefore, your rates will be lower. Likewise, if you live in a populous city with more drivers, you are at an increased risk of having a car accident and, therefore more expensive to insure.

Age

Statistics show that age plays a role in the likelihood of being in a car accident. This is largely due to the length of experience and the decision-making process. For instance, seasoned drivers are less likely to make risky or reckless decisions when driving as opposed to young drivers who are nervous drivers or who do not have the life experience to draw on when making choices on the road. Therefore, insurance companies take the risk factor of your age into account when determining your insurance rates.

Demographic

Male drivers are more expensive to insure than female drivers. This is due to the assumption and proven statistics that male drivers make riskier decisions while driving and are involved in more fatal accidents than females. National averages show that male drivers cost $350 more annually than females to insure.

Why does it cost more to insure a Teen Driver?

Now that you can see some of the factors that affect your car insurance rates, it may be evident as to why teen drivers cost more to insure. A teenager’s lack of experience behind the wheel of a car makes them more susceptible to an accident and, therefore, a more considerable risk to insure for the insurance company. Teens meet almost every high-risk factor for what drives up insurance costs.

For example, parents often select the maximum coverage for their teen drivers and their property. This ensures that if an accident occurs, parents do not have to worry about the costs of hospital bills or car repair costs. Teenagers also do not have a history of good driving to bring down costs, and statistics show that people in their teens actually have a history of poor decision-making when driving.

Because of these factors, insurance companies insure teenagers at higher rates to counteract the high chance that they will probably have to pay out a claim during their teenage years. These rates will decrease, though, as time progresses if your teen’s record stays clear.

How to Keep the Cost of Car Insurance Low for Teens:

Though it is a fact that teenagers are more expensive to insure, you are not just out of luck when it comes to cost breaks and ways to save. There are several decisions that you and your teen can make to help bring down the expense as much as possible.

Individual Policy

Most insurance companies recommend adding your teen to your existing policy rather than opening an individual policy under their own name. This is because your teen may be able to draw from your own good driving record rather than having a rate based on having one single young driver, which drives up premium costs.

Though, it is not always a good idea to have your teen on your policy. If you have an expensive sports car on your policy, it may be better to keep your teen on their own policy. This is because insurance companies will often match the most expensive person to insure with the most expensive vehicle to insure, which causes prices to rise even further. Additionally, it may protect your assets in situations where litigation may arise if your teen is on their own policy. But each insurance company has its own policies for how these situations are handled.

Vehicle

The type of vehicle you are insuring affects the rate you pay. For instance, it is more expensive to insure a classic sports car than a standard sedan. Additionally, it is cheaper to insure older vehicles than brand-new ones. A good rule of thumb to follow is that if a car is more expensive to replace, it is more expensive to insure. Therefore, when shopping for your teen driver’s first vehicle, it is wise to remain sensible and responsible. They might would rather drive a cool new sports car, but it is likely that they will remain safer, and their insurance will remain cheaper if you put them in a simple colored sedan or SUV.

Discounts

Most insurance companies offer a way for your teenager to save money by showing responsibility. For instance, some companies will have a good student discount policy where your student can receive a percentage discount for proof of maintaining good grades.

If you have a teen who is away at school without a car and does not drive very often, your insurance company may also have a student away at school discount where you can receive a lower rate because the risk of insuring your teen is low for the time being.

Safe Driving Programs

A few of the national insurance companies offer safe driving discounts that are an excellent way for teens to bring down the cost of insurance. These safe driver programs consist of a driver training course that is typically offered as an online course. They take a few hours to complete and include modules, videos, and quizzes that help teach a participant how to maintain safe driving practices. When your student completes this course, they can present a certificate of completion and receive a discount on their premium.

How to Add a Teen to Your Insurance Policy

When your teen is close to driving age, it is a good idea to begin shopping for insurance policies or speak to your current insurance carrier about their teen driver policies. You do not want to wait until the day they get their license to begin looking at your options in case you have questions or would like to shop around for different policies.

In many cases, it simply takes a phone call to add your teen to your policy. But the timing of when you add them can vary. Some companies may prefer that you add your teen as soon as they get a learner’s permit, while others will allow you to wait until they officially have their license. In either case, it is best to find out the company policy beforehand to avoid a situation where your teen driver is on the road without insurance.

Gebhardt Can Help You Find the Best Insurance for Teen Drivers

Are you looking for cheap car insurance for teens and young drivers? Our team at Gebhardt can help! We are familiar with national and local brands and their teen driver policies. We know which companies have safe driver programs, accident forgiveness, and good grade discounts. Therefore, if you are looking for the best insurance for teen drivers, we can help you shop your options.

We are available now to help you sign up for a teen driver policy or to simply answer the questions you have as your teen gets closer to reaching this big milestone. Call us today.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance, Insurance

Arizona Car Insurance Requirements Guide

October 12, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

arizona car insurance requirements

Picture this: you’re driving down the road, minding your business, and respecting the rules of the road when suddenly a car speeds up from behind you and slams into you.

In a lawless society, that driver could just take off and continue on his way without any responsibility or legal obligation. But that’s not fair to you! You were doing everything correctly. Why should you have to pay for damage repairs or medical bills if they should occur?

Luckily, we do not live in a lawless society, and we have regulations and requirements for such situations. Every state has mandated insurance requirements. This means that in order to acquire a driver’s license to drive on the road legally, the law requires that you must carry and be able to show proof of financial responsibility.

Most states have a mandated coverage limit, or minimum amount that you are required to pay, in case you are found to be at fault in an accident. Arizona requires Arizona drivers to carry liability insurance and proof of insurance before you can register any motorized vehicle. Let’s take a look at the insurance information you need to know before driving on the road in Arizona.

Minimum Car Insurance Requirements

The Arizona Department of Transportation outlines the minimum requirements for auto insurance in the state. These amounts are subject to changes and may increase due to economic circumstances. Arizona’s last update occurred in July 2020.

Arizona drivers are required to carry a minimum of Liability Coverage in the amounts:

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

Penalties

Under Arizona law, it is required that you carry proof of insurance coverage when operating a motor vehicle. If you are unable or unwilling to show proof of insurance to a law enforcement officer when asked, you may be subject to penalties.

For a first offense, you may incur a fine of $500 and a license suspension for up to three months. Subsequent offenses carry heavier penalties. If you are found to be a repeat offender, you may have to surrender your vehicle plates and your driver’s license, or your vehicle may be impounded.

Carrying the minimum required liability insurance is very affordable with many insurance companies. Often, the associated fines for not following the law are more expensive than the mandated coverage. Therefore, driving without insurance is not worth the risk.

Recommendations

Though you are only required to carry liability insurance, it is a wise idea to have additional coverage. Liability insurance only covers other drivers and vehicles if you are at fault in an accident. If your car incurs damage in an accident, or if you are hit by an uninsured or underinsured motorist, then you will have to pay for your vehicle repairs and injury bills out of pocket.

Most drivers opt to carry additional coverage. For instance, collision coverage protects your vehicle if it is involved in an accident, and comprehensive coverage pays for damage to your vehicle due to weather events or animals. There are also additional policies such as gap insurance, roadside assistance, rental reimbursement, and more. In most cases, these additional policies only cost a few dollars a month but can save you significantly if you need to file a claim.

Find the Best Arizona Insurance

Finding the best Arizona insurance often requires more effort than a simple google search. Depending on the type of coverage you need and the types of vehicles you are insuring, you may find that different companies offer different coverages. You want to make sure you get the best deal for what you need, and that requires time and research.

At Gebhardt Insurance Group, it is our job to do that work for you. We make it our mission to shop for car insurance quotes and find the best deal for you and your particular circumstances. If you need assistance finding the best Arizona insurance, call us today.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance

Insurance for Snow Birds in Arizona

August 26, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

insurance for snow birds in Arizona

Flying south for the winter is not just for the birds. It is also for those who wish to escape the winter weather and enjoy a warmer climate during the north’s colder months. The term snowbird applies to those with an established primary residence in one location, typically in a northern place, but who flock to warmer areas during the winter months each year. Arizona is among the top snowbird destinations.

Traditionally, the majority of the snowbird population has been comprised of retirees. But in today’s climate of vast technology and work-from-home scenarios, the snowbird community is expanding. Many young professionals now find themselves traveling to warmer states to escape freezing northern snowstorms. Likewise, empty-nesters are choosing to enjoy their middle-aged years rather than waiting for life to start at retirement.

People who choose to split their residency between two places in this way must still ensure that they are covered by insurance in many realms, including health insurance, auto insurance, life insurance, and more. But how does insurance work for part-time residents? Let’s take a look.

Health Insurance for Snowbirds

The majority of snowbirds are retired seniors. Therefore they are eligible to enroll in Medicare. This is excellent news for snowbirds because the Medicare program has national coverage and works similarly in every state. When traveling south with Medicare, you need only to select a doctor who accepts a Medicare insurance plan.

For those who are not yet eligible for Medicare, health insurance can be a bit more tricky, but you have a few options to ensure your health is covered. If possible, the best option is to select a health care provider through work or private insurance with national coverage. In this case, in-network providers are available in both states where you need them. If your plan is local, but you would like to keep it, it may be a possibility that you can choose to use out-of-network providers from your home state insurance company when traveling. If your time is split pretty evenly in each state, you could establish permanent residency each time you move which triggers a special enrollment period with most insurance companies, allowing you to choose a new plan and primary care doctors in your new location.

All of these health insurance scenarios depend on many factors, and your personal circumstances will determine the best choice for you. But rest assured, it is possible for you to travel and remain covered.

Snowbird Car Insurance

Will you need a vehicle for your warm and sunny travels? Then you need auto insurance coverage. The type of coverage you need depends on your circumstance. You should purchase insurance in the state where your vehicle is registered. Therefore, if your car travels with you and you only travel a few months out of the year, your home state insurance will still be valid.

But some states, such as Florida, have strict requirements about purchasing local insurance if you plan to stay for more than three months. In Arizona, though, car insurance requirements are less strict. If you plan to stay in Arizona for less than seven months and are not establishing permanent residency, then you can keep your northern insurance.

But if you purchase a vehicle that stays in your snowbird location, you will need local insurance. To save money, though, you can find an option that allows you to pay a rate for a “stored vehicle” for the months where you won’t be using it. This should decrease your insurance rate while maintaining comprehensive coverage.

Additional Insurance for Snowbirds

It is essential to review all of your insurance policies if you will find yourself traveling annually. For instance, you should ensure that your life insurance policy is valid in both states and that your home insurance applies if you are not present for several months of the year. You buy insurance to cover catastrophes; it would be catastrophic if your policy doesn’t pay out due to an unknown error.

It can be a huge hassle to keep track of all these details and research all these options on your own. But don’t let that hold you back from living the life you want. At Gebhardt, our team can review your policies and set you up with the right plans for you. Whether you’re a Canadian snowbird looking for valid insurance in the states, or a New Yorker escaping harsh winter weather, we can explain your options and shop for a plan for you.

Give us a call today, and let’s get you squared away before your next sunny escape!

Filed Under: Auto Insurance, Health Insurance, Life Insurance

Does Full Coverage Car Insurance Cover Theft? Here’s What You Need To Know

July 26, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

does full coverage car insurance cover theft

Experiencing the theft of your personal property does so much more than just cause financial stress.

It can leave victims feeling isolated and afraid, no matter what the cash value of your stolen items looks like.

If your vehicle is stolen or personal items are stolen from your car, you deserve immediate support that can help you cover the cost of your expenses and begin to move past this harrowing event.

But without comprehensive coverage, you can find yourself left to pick up the pieces on your own.

So, how can you guarantee that you and your personal belongings are covered, even amid an unexpected theft?

Here’s what you need to know…

Does car insurance cover personal belongings?

The short answer is: Yes and no.

Unfortunately, the term “full coverage” can be extremely misleading when it comes to choosing a car insurance policy.

In many cases, insurance companies use this term to describe products and services that give you maximum coverage against car accidents but give you no protection against the loss of personal property.

Of course, that doesn’t mean you have to settle for limited coverage. There are several insurance solutions that will cover any items stolen from your vehicle to give you a genuinely full coverage package.

Auto insurance coverage that does NOT cover theft

Liability Insurance

While liability insurance is required in most states, this type of coverage provides only basic protection against costs associated with an accident, especially if you are found to be at fault.

That means that liability insurance will not be able to help you if your vehicle is broken into and your property has been stolen.

Collision Insurance

Like liability insurance, collision insurance helps you cover additional expenses stemming from an accident and is usually recommended to have alongside your mandatory coverage. This insurance can cover not only vehicle collisions, but also damage to your vehicle if you strike an object like a tree or fence.

However, collision coverage pertains only to damage done to your vehicle and does not cover any personal items in your car.

Types of insurance coverage that DOES cover theft

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage is often nicknamed “other than collision coverage,” because it will cover the cost of damage to your vehicle and personal property if you’re involved in a non-accident-related theft.

And despite not being required in most states, comprehensive coverage can be extremely beneficial in protecting you and your family from unexpected expenses when your belongings have been stolen.

Most comprehensive insurance policies will cover…

  • Theft of personal property in your vehicle
  • Vandalism to your car including graffiti, keying, and slashed tires
  • Fire by both arson and natural causes
  • Damage from severe weather, animals, or civil disturbances beyond your control
  • Replacing a vehicle that’s been stolen

When used in conjunction with liability and collision coverage, comprehensive coverage gives you the total support for your costs when it’s time to file a claim.

Homeowners Insurance

Auto insurance isn’t the only form of insurance that can help you recover after having your personal belongings stolen.

Many homeowners insurance policies provide coverage for personal property outside the home, including your vehicle.

Some of the items covered by homeowners insurance include…

  • Cash value for items stolen during a break-in
  • Repairs or replacement of damaged items
  • Damage done to your vehicle due to theft

Most importantly, many insurance companies offer you the chance to bundle your home and auto insurance coverage, so you get the most protection at home, on the road, and everywhere in between.

Renters Insurance

Even if you don’t own your property, you can still be reimbursed for items stolen from your vehicle while it’s parked at your home.

Renters insurance is a type of coverage that gives tenants the benefits of homeowners insurance at a reasonable rate.

Additionally, renters insurance can prevent you from being held liable for repairs to your rental property if it’s been damaged by theft, natural disasters, or other unexpected events.

What should you do if you experience a theft?

When it comes to getting the costs of your theft covered, it’s crucial to take quick action and file a claim.

You can start this process by following these simple steps…

Call The Police

First, having a police record of any theft is an essential resource for filing an insurance claim.

When you call the police, you’ll be able to provide a clear account of what happened, as well as a list of the items stolen or damaged, so that you can provide your insurance company with the most accurate information possible.

Contact Your Insurance

Next, you’ll need to notify your insurance company that a theft has occurred as quickly as possible.

Your agent will be able to walk you through the exact steps of creating insurance claims and can offer you insight into how much you can expect to be reimbursed for your loss.

The sooner you file a claim, the sooner you can recover.

Provide Additional Details

Finally, insurance claims can be a meticulous process.

This means that you may be required to produce more documentation relating to the items stolen and the events leading up to the theft. We recommend keeping a thorough record of any high-value items you keep in your car so that you can get the maximum payout you deserve.

Get the most out of your insurance coverage today

No one wants to think about the possibility of dealing with theft.

But with the right insurance coverage, you can find the support you need to deal with an unexpected incident quickly and effectively.

Our team works hand-in-hand with you to generate the best home, renters, and auto insurance policies from over 40 leading carriers, giving you coverage you can feel confident about.

Connect with our team to find the best theft protection policy for your budget today.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance

Car Insurance for College Students: The Complete Guide To Affordable Coverage

July 19, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

Preparing for college is one of the most exciting times in a young person’s life, and comes with a unique set of challenges, expenses, and decisions that shape the outcome of your academic goals.

One aspect of college life that many parents and students overlook is the role that quality car insurance can play in your future, regardless of whether you choose to live on campus or with family and friends.

With appropriate car insurance for college students, you can help keep yourself and your vehicle safe from an unexpected accident, and protect your financial interests from the burden of a low-coverage policy.

But before you begin comparing car insurance rates, there are a few steps you should follow to ensure that you get the best coverage and save money at the same time.

How to get car insurance for college students in 4 simple steps…

Step 1: Check to see if you qualify to stay on the parent’s car insurance policy

College might be the beginning of a young driver’s transition from adolescence to adulthood, but that doesn’t mean they’ll need their own car insurance policy just yet.

Just like many health insurance plans, car insurance companies offer programs that allow your student to remain on the parent car insurance policy while they’re attending school.

In most cases, this will be determined by who owns the title to whichever vehicle you plan on driving while at school.

Parent Owned Title

If the parent’s name is on the title of the car, you’ll likely be able to keep your existing policy. You can work with your insurance agent to make sure that your student is listed as an approved driver of your vehicle so that they’ll be adequately covered in the event of an accident.

Jointly Owned Title

If both the parent and student’s names are on the title of the car, there’s still a good chance you’ll be able to use your current policy. Many insurance companies will use the parents driving records to determine your rate, increasing your chance of getting better coverage without overpaying.

Student Owned Title

If the student’s name is the only one on the title of the car, they will most likely have to purchase their own insurance policy. This is why it’s important to weigh your coverage options before deciding whose name to put on the car, as it can seriously affect your insurance rates moving forward.

Ultimately, staying on the parent’s insurance policy is the easiest way to guarantee that you get the best rate possible for your student.

However, if this isn’t an option for your family, there are a few ways you can lower your car insurance rates without compromising on safety.

Step 2: Pick the right coverage for your campus needs

Whether you purchase a separate insurance policy for your student or you’re able to keep them on your existing program, you’ll want to make sure that the coverage you have is appropriate for a college lifestyle.

And even though many college campuses are designed to allow students to easily walk from class to class, there’s still a risk involved when commuting to and from school.

That’s why there are 4 main types of car insurance products that you should consider to maximize the safety of your college-aged student.

Liability Insurance

What it is: Typically considered mandatory in most states, liability insurance is a basic form of coverage designed to help you with both medical and legal costs stemming from an accident in which you are found to be at fault.

Why you need it: Besides being required to legally operate a vehicle, liability insurance was created to protect you from unexpected costs from an accident.

Liability insurance includes both bodily injury and property damage coverage, which can be used to cover medical expenses for the injured party and to help with repair costs for a damaged vehicle.

Collision Insurance

What it is: While not always required by the state, collision insurance is a type of coverage created to cover the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle, whether you’re involved in an accident with another car or an object like a fence or pole.

Why you need it: Unlike liability insurance, collision insurance takes matters one step further by covering any repair costs associated with your car, no matter who is at fault for an accident.

Most importantly, collision coverage makes it easy to get the help you need for minor accidents, such as hitting a curb. This makes it an ideal component for drivers on busy college campuses.

Comprehensive Coverage

What it is: As the name suggests, comprehensive coverage gives you more protection than mandatory insurance options. It can help cover repair costs to your vehicle if it’s been damaged in a storm, broken into, and everything in between.

Why you need it: You’ve probably heard the term “full coverage” when it comes to car insurance rates, but the reality is that most policies don’t protect you from life events like weather damage or theft.

Comprehensive coverage gives you an added layer of protection against these circumstances, so you can be prepared for whatever life throws at you.

Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage

What it is: While most insurance products are made to reduce your own liability in an accident, uninsured motorist coverage serves to fill the coverage gaps you might face if another driver doesn’t have adequate insurance to cover your costs.

Why you need it: No matter how safe of a driver your student is, some things are out of our control.

With uninsured motorist coverage, you can guarantee that your costs will be covered, even if you’re dealing with a hit-and-run accident, which is common on crowded college campuses.

Step 3: Compare the best car insurance quotes

While the average cost of car insurance can vary greatly depending on your demographic and history, there are a few factors that all insurance providers will use to create a car insurance quote for your policy.

Age

Statistically speaking, young drivers are more expensive to insure than older generations and are seen as more reckless in their driving habits.

That’s why it’s important to try and obtain a policy that can be shared by the parent and student, so you can save money on your rate while still having high-quality coverage.

Vehicle Make

If you’re looking to purchase a car for a young driver, you should consider opting for a newer vehicle with updated safety features.

These cars are usually less expensive to insure since they are often equipt to help drivers avoid collisions. Other factors like color, body style, and racing capabilities can also play a role in the price of your policy.

Location

It goes without saying that heavily congested areas, like those surrounding college campuses, come with a higher risk of being involved in an accident.

When you’re ready to look at college housing options, choosing to live in a less crowded area or with friends and family members off campus can help lower your rate while you commute for class.

Driving Records

Finally, having a clean driving record is essential to getting the best rate possible on your insurance policy.

You should encourage safe driving habits for young drivers, as even minor traffic infractions can quickly accumulate points that negatively impact your car insurance rates.

With these considerations in mind, you can have a clear idea of what you can expect to pay for your college student’s insurance policy.

Step 4: Save money with discounts

Of course, car insurance quotes aren’t the final deciding factor when it comes to getting great coverage.

Most insurance providers offer discount programs that you can utilize to save money on your policy, before, during, and after college.

The most common discounts for full-time students include…

“100 Miles From Home” Discounts

If your student commutes less than 100 miles to attend school, you may be able to save money on a “close to home” discount.

These are used to encourage young drivers to spend less time on the road, decreasing their likelihood of being involved in an accident.

Good Grade Discounts

Getting a good education should be every student’s number one priority.

That’s why many insurance companies encourage young drivers with discounts designed to reward them for their hard work, one semester at a time.

Safe Driver Discounts

While your driving record is often used to lock in your car insurance rate, the benefits of safe driving don’t end there.

Most insurance providers reward drivers who maintain a clean driving record, whether they’re enrolled in school or not.

Anti-Theft Discounts

Car accidents aren’t the only threat to your vehicle on a college campus.

By investing in an anti-theft device that prevents car-jacking or break-ins, you can potentially lower your rate and protect your property against malicious attacks.

Start your journey to better coverage today

We understand that getting ready for college can be an overwhelming experience for both parents and students alike.

That’s why our dedicated team of licensed insurance agents is here to take the stress out of the car insurance shopping process by delivering industry-leading policy options from nearly 40 carriers, so you get the best coverage for every budget.

Connect with our customer service staff to begin reviewing car insurance quotes today.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance

Do I Need Uninsured Motorist Coverage and Auto Collision Insurance?

July 12, 2022 by Steve Gebhardt

Making insurance decisions isn’t always easy. Many drivers don’t know about uninsured motorist coverage until it is too late. Considering there are 6 million car accidents in the U.S. each year with 125,000 in Arizona alone. In Arizona alone, as of 2019 11.8% of the drivers are uninsured. Some recent reports put it at closer to 20%. This statistic continues to increase, which is alarming and a cause for concern.

What is Uninsured Motorist Insurance?

What happens if a driver hits your vehicle but has either no insurance or insufficient insurance to cover your costs? It depends on whether you have uninsured motorist coverage (UM) or underinsured motorist coverage (UIM), both of which will provide you with financial protection. Many states require UM coverage, but it is optional in Arizona, New Mexico, California, Texas, Utah, and various other states.

What is Auto Collision Insurance?

If you have collision coverage on your vehicle, property damage to your vehicle caused by a collision could be covered, regardless of who is at fault. Even if you are the person responsible for collision damage in a single-vehicle accident, your insurance claim will be covered. The collision coverage deductible maybe $250, $500, or more. Usually, collision coverage does not cover punitive damages.

What is Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI) Coverage?

Unfortunately, bodily injury is a possibility anytime a vehicle collision occurs. If you have uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage, there may be coverage for any passengers in your vehicle who were injured in a collision. However, you will usually be compensated for certain expenses, such as the following:

  • Medical costs
  • Funeral expenses
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of income

You could be responsible to pay your own medical costs if you don’t have UMBI coverage. However, it’s possible you could file a claim for reimbursement. Talk to your Arizona auto insurance specialist to learn more.

What Does Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) Cover?

If your vehicle or property becomes damaged and an uninsured driver is at fault, uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) insurance coverage will pay for the damage done. Some states also pay if you have UMPD insurance and a crash is caused by an underinsured driver. In most states, uninsured motorist property damage coverage also pays for costs incurred if damage is caused by a hit-and-run driver. A few states only pay in this circumstance if the hit-and-run driver is identified. These laws and policies change all of the time. Want to know what Arizona does? Talk to one of the team at Gebhardt Insurance today.

What is Underinsured Motorist Coverage?

If you are in a collision and the medical bills you end up paying for injuries you suffer cost more than the damage an underinsured motorist’s insurance pays, underinsured motorist coverage can fill the gap up to the limit amount. Most commonly, insurance companies will not allow you to carry more UM/UIM coverage than your own liability limits. To increase UM/UIM coverage, you must also increase your liability limits.

Most insurance experts recommend carrying at least 100/300/100 in liability coverage; the same amount is recommended for UM/UIM coverage. This will provide protection if you hit a vehicle with four people inside and they are all injured, if you are injured and in the hospital for several days, and various other common scenarios.

What are the Benefits of Collision Coverage?

A good way to realize the benefits of collision coverage is by understanding how limited your protection is without it. If you have uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) insurance coverage but not collision coverage, the only collision protection you would have would be

  • Coverage up to a certain limit if the accident is caused by an uninsured driver, though the amount would be substantially lower than if you also had collision coverage; and
  • If you are in a collision with a party who is confirmed to be at fault and is covered by insurance or otherwise pays for your damages.

Is Collision or Uninsured Motorist Insurance Better?

If you were going to have one or the other, as opposed to both, it is better to opt for collision insurance. Collision insurance will protect you in more collision scenarios than uninsured motorist coverage. For instance, regardless who is at fault in a crash, collision insurance coverage can be used to repair or replace your vehicle. Uninsured motorist insurance is only applicable in cases when an uninsured driver is at fault.

Our expert team of insurance specialists can help guide you in this complex and ever-changing environment. We will look at the options, your budgets and present to you the best offers from 40 or more carriers. We want you to be safe, protected and confident that if you were in an accident, everything you need would be taken care of.

Filed Under: Auto Insurance

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

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