Geico Car Insurance Review 

Cost 

This is the most important factor for just about anything, insurance included. Geico’s insurance premiums may not be the cheapest, but they are one of the most affordable. 

The company can keep its rate affordable because of its numerous discount packages. 

Coverage 

When shopping around for an insurance policy, it’s essential to know what type of coverage suits your needs. For example, every state requires drivers to have their vehicles insured before hitting the road. However, the minimum coverage requirements for each state varies. 

Many are advised to go for full coverage if they can afford it. Note that full coverage isn’t a policy but a combination of different coverage types such as liability, collision, and comprehensive.

Below we highlighted what coverage Geico offers for their insurance policies:

Liability Coverage – this includes bodily injury or death of people from an accident caused by you. It also covers damage to people’s property from accidents caused by you.

Vehicle Coverage – this consists of collision and comprehensive coverage. Asides from covering you from accidents where your car is hit or where you hit someone, the comprehensive aspect covers theft, vandalism, etc.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage – not everyone on the road is like you, a law-abiding licensed driver with car insurance. Sometimes, you may get involved in an accident with someone with no insurance or underinsured. That’s where uninsured motorist policies come to play.

Medical Coverage – This covers medical expenses relating to a car accident, and some of these policies offer coverage regardless of who caused the accident.

Claim Process

In a J.D. Study conducted in 2021, Geico Insurance ranked 8 out of 18 companies regarding auto insurance claim satisfaction. That’s a little above average and not so bad. 

The company has adopted several methods to make the claim process easier for its customers. For example, you can file a claim online, via the mobile app, or with a phone call.

Customer Satisfaction

Generally speaking, Geico customers are satisfied with the service they get. If they weren’t, the company wouldn’t have succeeded in rising to the ranks of the most successful insurance companies in the U.S.

Factors To Consider When Selecting Car Insurance With Geico 

Your choice of auto insurance policy requires a lot of thought; when purchasing insurance, we would advise you to think of it as getting married. 

While it is possible to walk away from the first choice if it wasn’t the right decision, the consequences that follow are severe. Therefore, it’s better to get it right the first time. 

Below we highlighted the major considerations associated with selecting an auto insurance policy: 

Company Reputation

There’s a reason why branding is important, always go for a company that has carved a name for itself in the industry. But, of course, we are not saying that you should always go for the industry big shots like Geico, State Farm, and Lemonade. 

However, going for a small company with little presence puts you at a higher risk of falling victim to scammers and poor customer service. 

This isn’t to say that all upcoming businesses are fraudulent or that all small companies have poor customer service, but it is easier to judge the kind of service you would get from a well-known company. Always conduct proper background research before patronizing any business. 

Cost

This is one factor that cannot be overlooked when searching for a policy that suits your needs. In addition, several factors affect the cost of an insurance policy, such as the company’s operational fees, your agent or brokers, fees, your age, health status, accident record, etc.

Insurance should be a convenient way to protect yourself, so be sure to go for a policy with premium rates you can comfortably afford. 

And don’t be scared to cough a little more than you budgeted for a service that is exactly what you need. 

Coverage

 Why else do we get insurance if not for the coverage it offers. For example, if you live in an area with high robbery rates, you want the insurance coverage to protect you from robbers and not a fire incident. If your property is situated in a location that floods, you want coverage against floods and not earthquakes.

Your insurance policy should offer coverage that is specific to your needs. It is important to communicate these needs with your insurer or insurance agent to ensure you get the right policy for you.

Claim Process

We hear of many insurance companies that offer great insurance policies at affordable rates but have an unbelievably difficult claim process. Sometimes the stress involved is so much that we’d rather not file for the claim at all.

Make inquiries about the process involved in filing a claim so that you aren’t left frustrated and helpless when the need arises.

Customer Reviews

This boils down to our first factor on company reputation. Before you purchase a policy from any company, a quick google search can tell you whether you are making the right decision or not. Next, look at what other customers had to say about their services.

Are they satisfied with what they got? And if they were some dissatisfactions in the service received, how did the company react to it? All these things will help form the basis for your final decision. 

Conclusion

Geico is one of the largest insurance companies in the U.S., loved by many for their nostalgic Geico mascot and for the top-notch service they’ve provided for over 75 years. After examining a few factors, we can conclude that Geico saves you 15% or more on car insurance in 15 minutes.

Sources

Geico Auto insurance Review 2022: Pros and Cons

Car Insurance Coverage: Auto Coverage Types & More

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During the lockdown, courtesy of the Covid-19 pandemic, catalytic converter theft rates went through the roof. The situation was so bad insurance companies were forced to state the amount they had incurred in covering converter theft.

 The reason lies with the materials used in making these converters. The metals on them are valuable and can be salvaged for a hefty price on the black market.

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, the rate of catalytic converter theft between 2019 and 2020 went up over 300%. The number of reported cases as of 2019 was approximately 4000, but by 2020 the number was nearly 14500.

A catalytic converter is a major component in all gas-powered vehicles. Its function is to reduce the emission of harmful gases into the atmosphere. For example, carbon monoxide enters the converter and exits as the less poisonous carbon dioxide. The catalytic converter is located between the engine and the muffler on the underside of a vehicle.

You may be wondering what is it about this component that makes them attractive to car thieves. The answer lies in the materials they are made of.

Catalytic converters are made with valuable metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium. 

The market value for these metals significantly went up in 2020. For example, an ounce of RhodiumRhodium goes for nearly $14000, while an ounce of palladium can sell for $2000.

They are also located in an easily accessible part of the car- its underside. It takes a few minutes to take out a catalytic converter, making it easier to steal.

Cars at Risk of Catalytic Converter Theft

Needless to say, any car with a catalytic converter is at risk of having it stolen. Catalytic converters gain popularity in the 70s, 1975 to be exact. Unfortunately, thieves tend to target the older models of cars when hunting for converters. The reason is that older car models are made with more metals than newer ones.

Hybrid vehicles are partly powered by electricity making their catalytic converters more valuable than those of non-hybrid vehicles. In addition, the converters on hybrid vehicles are seen as more valuable because they see less use than that standard cars.

Lastly, cars with high ground clearance such as vans and SUVs make a great target for catalytic converter theft. Their height off the ground makes it easier for thieves to get under them and steal the converter.

Cars that are at higher risk of catalytic converter theft include 

1. Lexus SUVs

2. Accord

3. Toyota

4. Cars with high ground clearance such as vans and SUVs

The table below contains the average cost for a catalytic converter replacement for cars at a higher risk of catalytic converter theft. 

Because of where your catalytic converter is located, you cannot likely tell it is missing from just looking at your car.

When you turn on the engine, the first clue that your car’s converter has tampered with shows up, without your catalytic converter, your car will make loud noises. These noises get louder every time you push the gas pedal.

In addition to this, your car will make noises when you change the vehicle’s speed. You may also notice a smell coming from the exhaust since poisonous emissions are being released into the air. Lastly, the car will not operate as smoothly.

You can look under your vehicle and check for a hole between the engine and the muffler where the converter is supposed to be. 

You can do several things to prevent your catalytic converter from getting stolen. The easiest and least expensive option is to ensure your car is parked in a secure location when it is left in an unattended position. Such a location can be a garage that is locked or your personal premises. 

Another thing to consider when decreasing your chances of being a target of catalytic converter theft victims is to weld your converter to the car. 

This makes it more difficult to take out of the vehicle than converters simply screwed on with bolts.

Lastly, you can upgrade your car’s security system. Set your car’s security alarm to go off when it detects vibration. This will alert you when anyone is trying to tamper with your car without consent as they cannot turn it off.

According to The Spruce, a victim of catalytic converter theft will incur about $2000 in replacing and repairing their vehicle.

If you plan to purchase from the original manufacturer, this will cost more than buying a generic model. Our advice is it may be worth the extra effort to check out prices from different vendors and go for the best one.

Asides from the cost of replacing the converter itself, you may also incur additional costs for repairing any damage done to the car in the course of being ransacked. 

A catalytic converter can sell for as high as $3000 at scrap value, depending on the make of the car and what kind of precious metals it is coated with.

Catalytic converter theft is rising, and you may be the next victim. With a comprehensive insurance policy, you need not worry about the expenditure that accompanies such an event. Your insurance provider with handle it.

If you are yet to experience catalytic converter theft, we would strongly advise you to adhere to the prevention tips discussed earlier, as the event can be a destabilizing one.

Sources 

Preventing Catalytic Converter Theft

Catalytic Converter Theft Skyrocket Across the Nation

Catalytic Converter Theft: Does Insurance Cover It?

The post Does Insurance Cover Catalytic Converter Theft? appeared first on Insurance BlogX.

As the popularity of hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) continues to grow, it’s important for prospective owners to understand the insurance implications of making the green switch. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate insurance for hybrid and electric vehicles.

• Comparing insurance rates for green cars: While some green vehicles may have slightly higher insurance premiums due to higher repair costs, others may be very similar or even lower. For instance, the Toyota RAV4 Prime SE costs an average of $1,428 per year to insure, whereas its hybrid counterpart, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, may cost slightly more.
• Green vehicle discounts: Some insurance companies offer discounts for green vehicles, helping you save money on your insurance premiums. Be sure to inquire about potential discounts when shopping for coverage.
• Factors affecting insurance costs: Repair and replacement costs for hybrid and EVs can be higher than those for traditional vehicles, which can impact insurance premiums. However, some green cars have lower overall claims history, which may help offset higher repair costs.
• Evaluating insurance providers for green cars: When shopping for insurance, be sure to consider providers that offer coverage tailored to hybrid and electric vehicles. Some insurers specialize in green car insurance, while others have special programs or rates for eco-friendly car owners.
• Reviewing coverage options: As with any vehicle, it’s essential to review and compare coverage options for your hybrid or EV. Consider factors such as comprehensive, collision, liability, and personal injury protection when determining the best policy for your needs.
• Maintenance impact on insurance: Keeping your green vehicle well-maintained and adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule can help reduce your insurance costs by minimizing the risk of accidents.
• Government incentives for green car owners: In addition to potential insurance discounts, you may be eligible for federal tax credits for purchasing a new EV or plug-in hybrid vehicle.

Are you planning to buy a Toyota RAV4 Prime and wondering about the insurance costs? Let’s explore the factors that influence car insurance costs for this popular SUV.

The Toyota RAV4 Prime comes at an MSRP of $38,350, which influences insurance rates. Higher-priced vehicles typically cost more to insure because they require higher coverage limits.

The RAV4 Prime has advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. Insurance companies typically offer discounts for cars with advanced safety equipment, lowering your premium.

The RAV4 Prime comes in different trim levels, with higher trims having more features and higher prices. Choosing a higher trim level might result in higher insurance costs due to the increased value and risk of theft.

Your personal driving history plays a significant role in determining insurance rates. If you have a clean record, you’re more likely to receive lower rates compared to drivers with accidents or violations.

How often you drive your RAV4 Prime will also affect your insurance cost. If you use your vehicle for daily commuting or drive long distances, your insurer may see you as a higher risk and charge more.

Where you live plays a significant role in insurance rates. Urban areas with high crime rates, heavy traffic, or severe weather conditions tend to have higher insurance costs than rural areas.

In most states, age and gender also impact insurance rates. Younger drivers or males tend to receive higher rates due to perceived risk or statistically higher accident rates.

Research the average insurance cost for Toyota RAV4 Prime:

Before you start comparing quotes for your RAV4 Prime, it’s essential to know the average insurance cost associated with the model. Generally, the cost of insurance varies depending on factors such as the model, trim level, and the age of the vehicle. Keep in mind that the RAV4 Prime is a hybrid SUV, which may result in slightly higher insurance premiums compared to the regular RAV4.

Look for discounts related to the RAV4 Prime’s safety features:

Toyota RAV4 Prime has a number of impressive safety features such as the pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and dynamic radar cruise control. When comparing quotes, find out if the insurance company offers discounts for these advanced safety features. This can help you save money on your policy.

Compare quotes from multiple insurance providers:

It’s essential to obtain and compare quotes from multiple insurance providers rather than sticking with just one. Shopping around ensures that you get the best possible deal on your RAV4 Prime insurance. Utilize online tools like Jerry.ai and CarInsuranceComparison.com to get personalized quotes from top insurance companies.

Consider factors such as your driving record and location:

Your driving record, including any past accidents or violations, can significantly impact your insurance premiums. Additionally, where you live and drive your RAV4 Prime affects the cost of insurance. Urban areas with higher rates of accidents and theft may result in higher insurance premiums. Keep these factors in mind when comparing quotes.

Evaluate coverage options:

When comparing quotes, it’s crucial to assess the coverage levels offered by different providers. Determine if you need comprehensive, collision, or liability coverage, and consider factors such as deductible amounts when shopping around. By taking the time to evaluate your options, you’ll find the best insurance policy for your Toyota RAV4 Prime at a fair price.

In summary, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime offers superb performance, fuel efficiency, and functionality, but potential buyers must be prepared for varying insurance costs. With careful research and comparison, you can find the best policy for your needs and enjoy the numerous benefits this popular SUV has to offer.

References:

https://getjerry.com/car-insurance/toyota?model=rav4-prime-se

https://www.moneygeek.com/insurance/auto/toyota-rav4-insurance/

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If your parents are also listed as owners on the car’s title, you can have your car insured under their policy. 

Unfortunately, car insurance rates for younger folks in on the high side. It doesn’t help that in this stage of life, you will be battling with low paying jobs and other responsibilities (mostly school-related)

Because of this, many youths will opt for insuring their vehicles under their parent’s policy. Some parents may offer to buy a new policy for their children and handle the premiums themselves.

As we mentioned earlier, if you are the only owner listed on the vehicle’s title, you have no choice other than to purchase a separate policy for yourself. 

On the surface, it looks like a more expensive route, but in the future, it may turn out to be more cost-effective to maintain a separate policy from your parents.

There is also no rule prohibiting your parents from handling your insurance premiums because you are on a separate auto insurance policy.

Why Who Is Listed On The Title Matters

We assume there might be some confusion on why insurance companies are concerned with who is listed on the title of a car.

The concept of insurance is to indemnify the owner of a property in an unforeseen circumstance—for example, car theft, burglary, and fire outbreak.

We deduced that you could not insure something you do not own from the concept. In the case of auto insurance, if your car is involved in an accident, the insurance company will make payment to the owner of the car.

In a situation where the policyholder (your parents) is not the owner of the vehicle, the insurance company maintains the right to withhold payment. However, if your parents are listed on the car’s title, they become legal owners of the vehicle.

The reality of the matter is that only the property owner suffers a loss on it. If your parents are not listed as owners on the car’s title, the insurance company cannot pay them for a loss that is not theirs.

When Is It Necessary To Buy A Separate Insurance Policy

There is a high chance that your first car will be a gift from your parents, and they will be the listed owners on the title. 

If you are still living with your parents, you don’t need to buy a separate policy. Instead, have your name added to their auto insurance policy, and you are good to go.

A general rule in insurance is that multiple drivers of a vehicle related to the policyholder and living together can fall under a single insurance policy.

However, this is only applicable when your parents are listed as owners of the car’s title. If they aren’t, you have to purchase a separate policy regardless of whether you live with them or not.

Remember, the insurance company can only make payments to parties with legal interest on a property, aka the owner.

We would advise you to explore your options by getting quotes from companies outside of your parent’s use. 

Getting Car Insurance While In College/ University

Earlier, we pointed out that multiple drivers living together and related to the policyholder could share a single insurance policy. What happens when you live on campus?

It is possible to remain covered by your parent’s insurance policy even when you are away at college. 

First, make sure that your permanent address is the same as your parents, and lastly, ensure they are listed as owners on the title of the car. These requirements align with the general rule that allows multiple drivers to share a policy.

Some companies offer a discount to students who do not take their cars to school. However, we should point out that you are expected to observe good driving practices during this period. 

A bad driving record could cause the cost of maintaining the policy to skyrocket regardless of who owns the policy and driving the vehicle.

We must mention that the information on the vehicle registration should tally with what is on the vehicle insurance documents. 

How Long Can I Stay On My Parent’s Policy?

It is natural to wonder if you can remain on your parent’s insurance policy once you are fully regarded as an adult.

Medical insurance policies have an age limit and require children to purchase a separate policy once they reach a certain age. However, this is not the case with auto insurance policies. 

The restrictions on car insurance policies are concerned with who owns the car and where you live, not how old you are.

Your main concern should be determining whether there is any benefit to remaining on your parent’s policy- is it cheaper than maintaining a separate policy?

Auto-Insurance Rates For Young Drivers

Insurance rates for younger drivers are higher than that of older drivers. The reason for this is simple. 

Younger and newer drivers are viewed as high risk by insurance companies; it doesn’t matter that you have a clean driving record at this point.

However, maintaining a good record well into adulthood will impact your insurance costs for the better as you get older.

The general benchmark age for auto-insurance rates to decrease is age 25. Your insurance company may begin to review your policy based on driving history by this time.

Conclusion

Whether you can insure a car under your parent’s policy is dependent on whether they are listed as an owner of the vehicle or not, and there are no age limitations on how long you can remain on their policy.

Even as a college student living on campus, it is possible to enjoy car insurance under your parent’s policy, and you may even enjoy some financial benefit for leaving the car at home instead of taking it with you to campus.

Getting a separate policy and joining your parent’s policy should depend on what option is cheaper.

The post Can I Have A Car In My Name Under My Parent’s Insurance? appeared first on Insurance BlogX.

If, after inspection, the car is in a good state, there is no need to file a claim. The general rule with insurance is to skip the claim lineup if the issue can easily be resolved out of pocket. However, this is not a go-ahead to keep the accident hidden from your insurer. 

If you are involved in an accident, whether serious or minor, whether you are at fault or not, always inform your insurer. Filing a claim or not is dependent on the nature of the accident.

Imagine that the damage done to your bumper is $200, and there is a deductible of $500 on your insurance policy. If you file a claim with your insurer, you would have to pay for your car repair out of pocket. 

Now imagine that the repair on your car is $300, and there is a $200 deductible on your car policy; after paying your deductible, your insurer will only pay out $100. 

Both instances paint a picture where involving your insurer is not necessary since you will not enjoy the full benefit of your insurance. 

There are two instances that will always require the involvement of your insurer, and that is:

1. When other drivers are involved

2. When serious damage or injuries are involved

Notify your insurance provider of any accident that involves other parties, even when it is minor or caused by someone else. It is risky to attempt to settle any issues without their involvement. 

The first risk is that the other party could sue for damages in the future even when they have been settled. Without proper documentation, there is no way to prove that the issue had been initially resolved. 

Your insurance company is experienced in dealing with such matters, and they are in the best position to protect you from lawsuits. 

Another instance that requires your insurance company’s involvement is when there is serious damage to property or injury.

Here’s a summary of everything we said:

Medical expenses can put a dent in the wallet of even the richest man; after all, the more money they have available, the higher the quality of health care. 

Earlier we gave two instances where you may consider filing a claim on your insurance policy, notice these two instances have something in common – the accident involves only you. 

Most accidents that don’t involve a third party don’t need to be filed for. For instance, you were trying to back out of your garage and hit your rear bumper against the garage door, or maybe you scratched the side of your vehicle against something. 

These are minor incidences that don’t pose a threat to anyone; filing a claim for such cases is unnecessary, especially since the cost of repairing them may not set you back financially. 

Another time you may want to skip filing a claim is if you risk having your insurance rate increased. Many factors are used to determine whether your rate will be increased or not after filing a claim; some of these factors include previous claim history, company regulations, etc. 

The most reliable way to determine if this will affect you is to request the company surcharge schedule or speak with an agent. Note that insurance companies, like most businesses, record their interactions with their customers. So, they will take note of your request.

We’d say the most important tip for filing a claim is to understand what you are entitled to at all times, and to do this, you should know what your policy covers. 

The second is to speak with your agent in times of confusion; they are in the best position to guide you on what decision to make. And finally, always file your claim promptly. 

The best time to file a claim is when you cannot afford to cover the damages yourself. Usually, this is the case when you cause serious damage to other people’s property or have injured the cause you. 

Chances are they might sue, or their medical expenses could set you back by thousands of dollars. It’s best to let your insurer handle this.

Filing a claim from your insurer is not always necessary, especially when you stand to lose more than gain. For example, mishaps that don’t result in serious damage to your property or that of a third party don’t need to be filed for. The same goes for accidents that don’t involve medical expenses.

The general rule is to always file a claim for accidents that involve damage to third parties and serious damage to yourself. 

If the accident involves only you and it is minor, meaning you can comfortably afford to cover the costs yourself, then you skip filing a claim. 

Sources

When to File a Car Insurance Claim – and When Not to

Should I Call My Insurance if a Car Accident was not my Fault

Tips for Filing an Insurance Claim

The post Somebody Hit My Rear Bumper, But There’s No Visible Damage, Should I File A Claim With Insurance? appeared first on Insurance BlogX.

This means that a grace period does not directly have anything to do with proving your vehicle is registered for insurance. 

When you purchase a policy, certain documents such as a policy declaration page and a member ID card are issued to prove insurance.

However, individuals who already have insurance but fail to make timely payments for their premium will be given a grace period to pay up before their insurance is canceled. Should they fail to do so, the insurer will cancel their policy, and this will cause a lapse in their coverage.

If you are given a ticket for driving with no insurance, you will not be able to defend yourself in court since your default in payment has caused a lapse in your coverage.

Geico Grace Period

Geico has a grace period of nine days for late premium payments; if you make a payment within your grace period, you will not be charged a late fee. Should you have an accident during the grace period, your policy will kick in as usual.

Geico will contact you with a cancellation notice to know when your policy will be canceled if you fail to make payment. 

The Solution To Never Missing A Payment – Autopay

Imagine there was a way to have your premium payments scheduled ahead of time, so you never missed a payment—something like how your different subscriptions (Apple Music, Spotify, Medium, etc.) work.

Fortunately, there is – Geico autopay is the answer. Your payments are automatically scheduled ahead of your due date with this option. Before this date, Geico will send you a payment schedule so you can plan ahead of your payments. 

The major advantage to this feature is that you’ll never miss a payment; hence you don’t risk getting your policy canceled and suffering a lapse coverage. 

The second advantage of using this feature is that you cut the long process of processing your premium payment. You no longer have to bother about calling anyone or making a trip to the bank. 

With modern technology, autopay makes it easy to have your premiums paid quickly and conveniently.

How Can I Pay My Premiums On Geico

Geico has held its spot among the best insurance companies in the U.S. because they make their processes as convenient as possible for their customers. 

You can pay for your premiums via multiple channels, and we highlighted a few of them below: 

Automatic Payment

Geico’s automatic payment feature works the same way your subscriptions do; at the appointed time, your bill will be automatically deducted from your bank. This makes it possible never to miss a payment, not to mention it’s a convenient way to get your payments in.

Online Payment

That’s right, with your local credit card, debit card, cheque, or Apple Pay, you can pay for premiums. The world has gotten to a stage where virtually every transaction is conducted online, so it makes sense that you can make your insurance payments online.

Geico Express Service allows you to make payments without logging in. It also allows you to access your ID Card and perform other functions relating to your insurance. 

Geico Mobile App

It’s no surprise that you can process your payments through the Geico mobile app. Download the app from your device’s application store, set up your account, and make your payments.

Geico’s app allows you to do more than make payments; you can make virtually any change to your policy or ask for assistance via the app. 

Phone Pay

With Geico’s automated phone system, you can pay your bills. Just call tel:+18009328872 to get started. You also have the option of saving your account details on their system to make future payments easier.

Bill Payer Service

Another way you can pay your Geico premium is through your bank’s electronic payment service. Geico has an Electronic Funds Transfer platform you can make your payments. The advantage you’d enjoy from using this service over your bill payer service is that you’d skip paying fees on your installments.

Mail

If the only way you can get money to your insurer for your premium is through a cheque or money order, that’s no issue at all.

You can get your payment in through the mail to Geico, be sure to send your mail to the correct address. Also, ensure that you provide the necessary information to process your order, such as your policy number. If you aren’t sure what you need to include, you can contact your customer care center for guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Pay After My Due Date If I Am Not Enrolled In Autopay?

Yes, you can. The grace period is applicable to all Geico clients, meaning that as long as your final due has not been exceeded, you can still pay.

Why Did I Receive A Cancellation Notice?

There are two reasons you’d receive a cancelation notice from Geico; the first is that you missed your payment due date. 

Usually, after missing your payment due date, you’d be given a grace period where you can still make payment for your insurance before it is canceled. Before the grace period elapses, you’d be sent a cancelation notice with the final due date for payment, after which your coverage will elapse.

The second reason you’d be sent a cancelation notice is if the amount due is not paid. It is not likely that your insurer will accept part payment on your premium without prior notice and agreement.

Conclusion

A grace period is not evidence for insurance; insurance documents such as your policy declaration page and insurance ID card are. If you recently purchased insurance for your new vehicle, these documents will help you prove this to any law enforcement officer. 

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions for Auto Policies

The post Does The New Car Insurance Grace Period From Geico Hold Up In Court Against A Ticket For No Insurance? appeared first on Insurance BlogX.

Auto insurance, also known as car insurance or motor insurance, is a form of financial protection for the policyholder against risks involved in owning and operating a vehicle. It is designed to cover damages or losses incurred due to accidents, theft, or other unforeseen events. In most countries, including the United States, auto insurance is a mandatory requirement for car owners to have a valid driving license and legally operate their vehicles on public roads.

There are several types of auto insurance available, covering various aspects of automobile ownership and usage. The most common type is liability coverage, which is legally required in almost all states. Liability insurance helps cover expenses related to injuries and damages to others resulting from an accident where the policyholder is at fault. Collision insurance, another common coverage, covers the cost to repair or replace the policyholder’s vehicle after an accident involving another vehicle or a stationary object, regardless of who is at fault.

• Financial Protection: Adequate auto insurance coverage protects you from significant financial losses in the event of an accident or damage to your vehicle. This helps cover costly repair bills, medical expenses, and even legal fees if you’re found at fault in an accident.
• Legal Compliance: In most states, it is mandatory to carry at least the minimum amount of liability insurance. By having an adequate policy, you comply with legal requirements, avoiding penalties and fines for being uninsured or underinsured.
• Medical Expense Coverage: Adequate auto insurance coverage can offer medical payment benefits to cover medical expenses for you and your passengers after an accident, regardless of who is at fault.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Protection: Uninsured and underinsured coverage protects you when you’re involved in an accident caused by a driver with insufficient or no insurance. This ensures that you are not left with out-of-pocket expenses for damages or injuries.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that you have adequate auto insurance coverage can give you peace of mind while on the road, knowing that you are protected in the event of an accident or damage to your vehicle.
• Collision and Comprehensive Coverage: Adequate auto insurance coverage provides protection for your vehicle in the case of an accident (collision) or other events such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters (comprehensive).
• Protection from Personal Liability: In the event of an at-fault accident, adequate liability insurance coverage can help protect your personal assets from being seized to cover damages or injuries to others involved.
• Rental Car Coverage: Some policies offer rental car coverage, which covers the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired due to an accident or damages.

Having adequate auto insurance coverage protects your financial wellbeing, ensures legal compliance, and offers peace of mind as you navigate the roads. By investing in a comprehensive policy, you can rest easy knowing you’re covered in various situations that may arise while driving. [3][4]

Liability coverage is mandatory in most US states and helps cover damages for injuries and property damage to others resulting from a covered accident. This type of insurance pays for other people’s expenses after an accident that you cause.

This optional coverage pays to repair or replace your vehicle if it’s damaged after an accident involving another vehicle or a stationary object, regardless of fault. Collision insurance is typically required for leased or financed cars.

Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your vehicle caused by non-collision events, such as theft, vandalism, weather events, and accidents with animals. Like collision insurance, comprehensive coverage is usually required for leased or financed cars.

• Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

PIP covers medical expenses and potential loss of income after an accident, regardless of who’s at fault. Available in 12 states, PIP can cover up to 80% of costs and is designed to supplement your health insurance.

• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

This type of coverage protects you if you are involved in an accident with a driver who has no or insufficient insurance. Required in 20 states, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage pays for your medical bills and vehicle repairs.

• Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay)

Required in Maine and Pennsylvania, MedPay covers accident-related medical expenses for you, your passengers, and household members. It can also cover copays and deductibles of other insurance policies, including health insurance and PIP.

Gap insurance helps cover the remaining balance on a car loan in the event of a total loss or theft. This optional coverage ensures you don’t have to pay the difference between the depreciated value and the remaining loan amount.

• Rental Reimbursement Insurance

If your vehicle is undrivable after an accident, rental reimbursement insurance helps pay for the cost of a rental car. This optional coverage can be a lifesaver while your vehicle is being repaired.

When selecting your auto insurance, consider your specific needs and budget to ensure you have the right coverage in place for peace of mind on the road.

In conclusion, understanding the various types of auto insurance available in the market is essential for every vehicle owner. It not only ensures that their vehicle, passengers, and themselves are well-protected but also helps in choosing the ideal combination of coverage suited to their individual needs and budget. Auto insurance not only provides financial protection against unforeseen events but also offers peace of mind and a sense of security while on the road.

References:

https://www.allstate.com/resources/car-insurance/types-of-car-insurance-coverage

https://www.nationwide.com/lc/resources/auto-insurance/articles/types-of-car-insurance

The post Exploring the Different Types of Auto Insurance: A Comprehensive Guide? appeared first on Insurance BlogX.

To mail the company, there are two procedures are depending on whether you are a current customer or not. 

Current policyholders have to log in to their accounts to send mail. The company’s reason for this design is to enhance its policyholders’ privacy. 

Nonpolicy holders can send a mail via the company website. The process is a straightforward one, visit the website and go to the send email tab. You will be required to select a topic and fill out certain information to mail to the company. 

If you prefer to reach out via its social media page, that’s not a problem because they have verified accounts across multiple platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and Lifelines. 

Progressive car insurance is the go-to company for customers who want to save money on premium payments. The company offers multiple discount packages for customers, and customers who switched to progressive saved an average of $700. 

Founded in 1937, the company has done well for itself over the years. It boasts of over 20 million policies in force. 

The company not only saves costs for its clients, but it also came up with multiple ways to ease the stress of its clients and potential clients. 

For example, the company allows you to make payments online and over the phone. Its customer service department is a vast one as the company provides multiple communication channels, including fax. 

Summary Of Progressive Insurance Contacts 

Importance Of Having These Contacts 

If you own an insurance policy, it’s no surprise that you may have your insurance agent’s number on speed dial or somewhere easily accessible. 

You may even go the extra mile to have other your insurance company contacts such as their email, fax number, and social media handles. But what good is having all this information? 

Ease Of Payment 

Progressive offers multiple ways to pay for a car insurance policy, and each one can be accessed via their contact channels. 

With their web address, you can log in to their customer service site and make online payments. You can also make payments via phone using the number 1-800-776-4737. There is also the option to make payments through texts. 

You can also send a check with your monthly bill through the mail or set up an automatic payment system. 

If you are not familiar with the official contact channels of the company, you may be limited to making payments for your policy using a method that is not completely convenient for you. 

Seamless Transactions 

Another benefit of having your insurance contacts handy is that it aids transactions. Imagine you’ve been involved in a minor accident and need to provide your insurance details to other parties of the accident to kickstart the claim process. 

You’d need certain information like your subscriber ID to do so. Such information is usually found on your insurance declaration page and your insurance ID card. If you do not have either of these documents, it would not be easy to claim your insurance. 

With your insurance contacts readily available, you can place a call to enquire about the information you need. 

Not only will policyholders find insurance contact information valuable, but potential clients also need these details. 

When searching for an insurance company to partner with, you would have to find the plans they have and their prices. You don’t have to make a physical trip to the office of all the companies you have in mind. 

A simple phone call to the customer service department of a company can get you all the information you need. 

Progressive insurance goes the extra mile to provide you with the quotes of other leading companies in the industry to make comparisons. However, this is done upon request. 

Smooth Policy Changes Or Cancelation 

You cancel your policy via phone, mail, or email but not online. If you didn’t have these other contacts, you may have to visit the nearest branch to have this affected, which could be stressful. 

If you want to make changes to your policy, you can have them effected or, if possible, select an effective date for such changes. These changes can be made online via the company website or through a call center agent. 

The best part is these changes can be made at any time because the company’s customer service lines are open 24/7. 

Saves Cost 

Imagine every time you had a challenge; you had to drive to your insurance company to sort it out. If your company is not far from where you live is along your route to work, this may not seem like an issue. 

Now imagine the drive was two hours away, and the only route to the office is usually traffic-jammed and could extend your drive time by another hour. Not so great, is it? 

Making a quick stop at your insurance company for every inconvenience can be very stressful and expensive. Fortunately, modern technology has made communication easier. 

Without embarking on a strenuous journey, you can place a call to your company or send an email and have your challenges resolved within minutes. 

If you have a fax machine, you can even fax information to your company. This could be even more convenient as fax machines do not require an internet connection to work, and the efficiency rate is likened to email technology. 

Conclusion

Hopefully, from this article, you’ve been able to learn the fax number and other contacts for progressive insurance. Not only that, but we believe you’ve also learned the benefit of having these contacts handy. 

They make life easier in many ways by reducing stress and even saving costs when it comes to communication with your insurance company. 

The post What Is The Fax Number And Other Contacts For Progressive Car Insurance? appeared first on Insurance BlogX.

You don’t have a car at the moment and need to run a few errands that would go smoother if you had some wheels to get around. So, you call your longtime buddy Jp asking if you could borrow his car for the day to get around some errands.

Jp has car insurance, and because you two are close, he permits you to use his car for your errands. With his permission, it is legal to use his car without insurance in most cases. The reason is that insurance follows the car and not the owner or driving it. 

It gets tricky when we consider if Jp’s car insurance would cover you in a situation where you crashed his car and sustained a few injuries.

Whether his policy will cover you depends on multiple factors on what kind of policy he purchased, where the accident took place, and incidents surrounding the accident. However, in a typical situation, the liability portion of Jp’s policy should cover any injuries you sustained while using his car.

However, it doesn’t always work out this way. For example, some insurers will not cover anyone who is not listed as a driver under Jp’s car policy. So if you are a regular user of Jp’s car, the insurance company expects you to be listed on his policy.

You can explore options as someone who regularly borrows your friend’s car and have no insurance. These include:

There is a clause called the “omnibus clause in the auto-insurance industry.”This clause provides coverage for vehicle users with the insured’s express or implied permission.

This clause considers family members, spouses, and children as permissive users. This means the insurer already expects that they will be regular vehicle users. Some states offer less coverage for permissive use drivers.

Close relations or guests who temporarily live with the insured can use their vehicle with their permission, except they are listed as a non-permissive use driver under their car policy.

Several insurers allow individuals to list more than one driver on a car policy. This is common with spouses, children, or family members who share a vehicle. 

Even if your friend has given you express permission to use their car, it is better to go further and have them list you as a driver under their car policy. This way, you can enjoy full coverage under that policy. This is especially useful if you borrow the car frequently or for long periods.

Purchase Non-Owner Car Insurance

Non-owner car insurance is a policy that allows you to purchase car insurance even when you don’t have a car. This policy is ideal for anyone who frequently rents or borrows a car. It can also be a lifesaver doe anyone who needs to provide proof of car insurance (for instance, filing an SR-22 form).

The great thing about this policy is that it provides coverage for anyone who sustains any damage when you are behind the wheel. 

Here’s a list of other things covered by non-owner car insurance:

• Bodily injuries caused to others in the form of medical bills
• Damages caused to others in the form of car repairs
• Legal defense if you are sued

Note that non-owner Insurance is a secondary policy; hence it only kicks in after your primary coverage has paid up. In this case, your friend’s insurance company is the primary insurer, and they will cover the liability up to their policy’s limit. Once their limit is maxed out, your policy will kick in and cover the damages up to your limit. Any balance left will be covered by you and your friend out of pocket.

What Your Non-Owner Policy Won’t Cover

A non-owners policy is not as comprehensive as a regular car policy, so it is expected that your policy will not cover some things. Some of these include:

• Damage to the Car You’re Driving – this car insurance policy doesn’t have collision and comprehensive coverage like regular car policies.
• Personal injuries – a regular non-owner insurance policy does not cover any bodily injuries you may sustain. Therefore, you will have to add medical payment coverage to your policy.
• Other drivers – unlike regular policies, non-owner policies do not cover other drivers such as spouses and family members. They are specific to you.
• Business Drivers – business use is a common exclusion for most non-owner policies.
• Personal property – any personal property lost or damaged in a car is not covered by auto insurance. However, a separate policy such as homeowner’s or renters’ policy offers coverage for such scenarios.

Scope of Coverage for Non-owner Car Insurance

It can be tricky dealing with insurance and state laws, but this doesn’t have to be the case every time. Legally, you can drive your friend’s car even when you don’t have insurance; all you need is their permission. 

You can also get listed under their policy if you borrow their car frequently. However, in our opinion, the best option is to purchase a non-owner car insurance policy. This way, you can save you and your friend the stress that comes with having an accident in their vehicle.

Sources

Can I Drive a Friend’s Car if I Don’t Have Insurance

Can You Drive Someone Else’s Car Without Insurance

Non-owner Car Insurance: Do You Need It?

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Basic car insurance coverage provides essential protection for drivers and vehicles. It typically includes liability coverage, which pays for injuries and property damage caused by the insured driver. This coverage is mandatory in most places. Additionally, personal injury protection or medical payments coverage helps with medical expenses for the driver and passengers.

Optional coverages like collision coverage (for vehicle damage in accidents), comprehensive coverage (for non-collision damages like theft or natural disasters), rental reimbursement, towing and labor coverage, and gap insurance (for leased or financed vehicles) are available for added protection. Specific coverage options and requirements may vary, so it’s wise to consult with an insurance professional for personalized advice.

Basic car insurance coverage includes several types of protection that are essential for drivers. Here are the key types of basic car insurance coverage:

• Liability Coverage: Liability coverage is a fundamental component of car insurance and is typically required by law. It consists of two parts:
  • Bodily Injury Liability (BI): This coverage pays for injuries or death to other people if you are at fault in an accident. It includes medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and even legal fees if you’re sued.
  • Property Damage Liability (PD): Property Damage Liability covers the damage you cause to someone else’s property, such as their vehicle, buildings, or other structures. It also includes legal expenses if you’re sued over the damage.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Medical Payments: Personal Injury Protection, also known as Medical Payments coverage, pays for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs for you and your passengers, regardless of who is at fault in an accident. PIP is typically broader in coverage and can include services like rehabilitation, funeral expenses, and childcare expenses.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This coverage protects you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who either has no insurance or insufficient coverage to pay for your damages. It covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and sometimes property damage.
• Collision Coverage: Collision coverage pays for repairs or replacement of your vehicle if it’s damaged in a collision with another vehicle or object. This coverage is important, especially if you have a financed or leased vehicle, as it helps protect your investment.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive coverage covers damages to your vehicle that are not caused by a collision. This can include theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, falling objects, or hitting an animal. Like collision coverage, comprehensive coverage helps protect your vehicle if you have a loan or lease.
• Rental Reimbursement Coverage: Rental reimbursement coverage provides coverage for the cost of a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired due to a covered claim. It helps ensure that you have a temporary means of transportation.
• Towing and Labor Coverage: Towing and labor coverage pays for the cost of towing your vehicle to a repair shop in the event of a breakdown or accident. It may also cover additional services like changing a flat tire, jump-starting a battery, or locksmith services.
• Gap Insurance: Gap insurance is important if you have a leased or financed vehicle. It covers the difference, or “gap,” between the actual cash value of your vehicle and the amount you owe on a lease or loan in the event of a total loss. This ensures that you are not left with a financial burden if your vehicle is severely damaged or stolen.

In addition to the basic car insurance coverage mentioned earlier, there are several additional optional coverage that you can consider for added protection and peace of mind. These coverage include:

• Roadside Assistance: Roadside assistance coverage provides assistance if your vehicle breaks down or experiences mechanical issues while you’re on the road. It typically includes services like towing, battery jump-start, fuel delivery, tire changes, and lockout assistance. This coverage can be especially helpful in unexpected situations and provides convenience and support when you need it.
• Rental Car Coverage: Rental car coverage, also known as rental reimbursement coverage, helps cover the cost of renting a vehicle while your car is being repaired due to a covered claim. It ensures that you have a temporary means of transportation and can continue your daily activities without interruption.
• Custom Equipment Coverage: If you have made modifications or added custom equipment to your vehicle, such as aftermarket rims, stereo systems, or special paint jobs, custom equipment coverage can help protect the value of these enhancements. It provides coverage for the cost of repairing or replacing the custom equipment in the event of damage or theft.
• New Car Replacement Coverage: New car replacement coverage is designed for brand new vehicles. In the event of a total loss within the first few years of ownership, this coverage can help replace your vehicle with a new one of the same make and model, rather than providing only the actual cash value. It can be a valuable coverage option to protect your investment in a new car.
• Enhanced Rental Car Coverage: Enhanced rental car coverage expands on the basic rental reimbursement coverage by providing a higher daily limit for rental expenses and extending the rental period. This coverage can be useful if you anticipate needing a rental car for an extended period while your vehicle is being repaired.
• Umbrella Insurance: Umbrella insurance provides liability coverage that goes beyond the limits of your basic car insurance policy. It offers additional protection in case you are involved in an accident where you are at fault and the damages exceed your liability limits. Umbrella insurance also extends liability coverage to other areas of your life, such as your home, boat, or personal belongings.

In conclusion, basic car insurance coverage typically includes liability coverage, personal injury protection or medical payments, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, rental reimbursement coverage, towing and labor coverage, and gap insurance. These coverages provide essential protection for drivers and their vehicles, covering injuries, property damage, medical expenses, and repair costs.

References:

https://quotewizard.com/auto-insurance/basic-car-insurance

https://www.thehartford.com/aarp/car-insurance/basic-car-insurance

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