Crooked Car Insurance Company Practices

Insurance companies have begun buying or investing their monies into car repair businesses in recent years. Insurance companies that own car repair shops can result in the consumer getting bad service and substandard replacement parts. Many people in the car repair industry have complained of being pressured by insurance companies that own them to keep costs down, and if they do not, they risk losing referrals.

Vehicle owners also have rights when getting their cars repaired following a collision. This applies to regular maintenance repairs as well.

The Automobile Service Association (ASA) suggests that car owners ask insurance companies the following when shopping for an auto body repair shop following a collision.

Do I have to get three estimates?

This is a standard procedure among insurance companies, but in reality you do NOT have to get three estimates. This is only an option and NOT a requirement that puts the burden on the car's owner to get the cheapest price.

Can I choose any repair shop?

Yes. You have the right to choose any auto body shop you like, and any attempt to direct you to a particular shop should raise some suspicions. Many times, the dealership does not have an auto body repair shop, and the vehicle's owner is referred to one with whom they have a contract. It is not required that they have one.

How can I ensure that they are going to fix my car with quality parts?

Any parts used other than Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) car parts must be disclosed in writing by the insurance company. It is up to the owner to agree if the insurance company will install other market parts, rather than be pressured to use OEM parts. In some states, this disclosure is not required.

The ASA recommends the following advice for vehicle owners to maintain their car:


Always check your owner's manual for regular maintenance schedules. A good rule of thumb is to change the oil and filter once every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.

Check all fluids including brake, transmission, washer, power steering, and antifreeze. These fluids are necessary for the safety and performance of your vehicle.

Check tire pressure. Under-inflated tires can waste gas. This is the cheapest form of preventive and safety maintenance. Check tire pressure once a month.
-- Fabiola Castillo is an online marketer for the website NinjaCOPS.com. This virtual store specializes in personal defense products where you can buy Mace pepper spray, kubaton keychains, hidden video cameras, cheap stun guns, nunchaku tricks videos, telescopic steel batons, and many other home security products. Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Top Ten Craziest Car Insurance Claims

Having your car broken into or bumped from behind can be a pretty upsetting experience, and certainly nothing to smile about when totting up your next car insurance premium. However, from time to time, insurers release claims that would raise a smile from even the sternest of risk assessors. Here are ten belters - and, just to remind you, every single one of these is a real claim!

10. Taxi cab fail
Our first car insurance corker is a case of what most of us would call ‘Sod's law'. AA Insurance told us the story of a businessman who, in severe ice and snow, decided it would be best to leave the motor at home; instead opting for a cab to the station. 
Sensible decision, you might say. Not so when the taxi arrives, slides into the driveway and rams the same man's supposedly-safe carriage. Woops.

9. Horseplay
We've all been there - you're driving along, happily minding your own business, when a horse flies out of a hedge and square on to your bonnet. 
No? Well that's what happened to one unfortunate punter, who, according to the Admiral Group, was stunned to find a large equine being leap "out of the bushes" and onto the front of the car.

8. The Great Escape
This one could have seen the loss of more than just a no-claims bonus. In the middle of a raging storm, one punter parks up and crosses the road, just in time to see a lightning-struck tree and surrounding wall smash on top of his beloved motor. A lucky escape indeed.

7. Butter wouldn't melt...
One of the odder stories was that of a woman claiming against a melted lump of butter on her passenger seat. The Admiral Group said that the policyholder was so embarrassed she allowed the seat to regress into a mouldy, buttery mess before the claim was made. Go figure.

6. The boot, the boot, the boot is on fire!
Another lucky escape here. A Zurich client took his £100,000 supercar for a spin after being away on business for a week. As the tank was low on fuel, he headed for the nearest petrol station.
Driving along, our man noticed a whiff of petrol, so opened the window to let some air in - only to notice a wave flashing and beeping from oncoming traffic. Suspecting that something was afoot, he pulled aside, only to realise that the back of the car was in flames. On arrival, the fire brigade advised that he was lucky to be alive, and could thank the lack of a Mad Max-style explosion on his nearly-empty fuel tank.

5. Hounded down
One Admiral Group policyholder received quite a shock when, quietly minding their own business, they were alerted to screams for help from the street.Bravely rushing out to help, the insured threw the front door open, only to find a clearly terrified man hopping on the roof of their car. All this, it transpired, to escape the attentions of a rather large dog pawing frantically at the bonnet. Whoever said they were man's best friend?

4. Along came a spider...
We've all got our fears and foibles, and many of us are terrified of one eight-legged creature in particular. However, few on this side of the world will have caused as much harm as the not-so-incy-wincy-spider that landed on one poor lady's steering wheel on the way home.
Frightened to the point of panic by the hairy intruder, she veered wildly and into an oncoming third party.

3.The magic flying carpet
Planning a visit to the tip, one customer ties his old, battered carpet to the roof rack. Turning a corner, he brakes sharply as he realises he's reached a traffic jam. At this point the carpet duly flies off the roof and through the back window of the van in front - whose driver whizzes off totally unawares. Saves that trip to the dump, I suppose.

2. Feeling sheepish?
Animals (and arthropods) have played a starring role on this list, and our second favourite story of the lot is one of an unsuspecting driver being stunned by a flying sheep. 
Coming out from under a bridge, the insured was jolted by the sound of a large thud, and then by the rather terrifying sight of a large woolly creature rolling down the windscreen. 
As unfortunate incidents go, this is right up there. A sheep-bearing lorry on the overpass had swerved, spilling one unfortunate dolly over the edge and on to the chassis of our bewildered AA claimant.

1. Dogs drive in hot cars
You know what they always say about never leaving your dog in the car for long periods? Well one AA claimant was left with more than just a guilty feeling after leaving Fido in the front seat...
After nipping to the shop to get a paper, our man got out to find his car vanished. After beseeching passers-by for information, one dry customer calmly remarked: ‘Ah yes... I saw a dog driving it down that hill'.
As it turns out, his beloved companion had climbed into the driver's seat, catching its leash on the gearstick in turn. Result: Said dog ‘drives' downhill and rams into a row of parked cars. Chaos and confusion ensues.
-- Fianlly, for those looking car insurance online then try a comparison website to get a cheap car insurance quote. Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Do You Know Why You Need Comprehensive Car Insurance?

Comprehensive car insurance is not a requirement in most States in North America. However, if you want to protect yourself from great financial risks, auto insurance comprehensive is the best. This is the type of insurance ideal for brand new cars as it covers damages for car accidents and other types of accidents.

This auto insurance policy protects you in case damage is done to another party, damage to property or injury to a person. It also covers your own vehicle and your medical expenses despite being at fault in a car accident.

The stipulations on your policy contract vary according to the insurance companies. Before you buy comprehensive car insurance, it is wise to read the terms, conditions and exclusions in your policy.

Among the types of car insurances, auto insurance comprehensive probably has the highest premiums. Besides the coverage for damages to your car and the other party's car, comprehensive insurance covers damages resulting to other non-car collision incidents.

If your car is vandalized, violated or stolen, the damages are covered by the comprehensive insurance. If you bought a $75,000 car through a car loan and your insurance does not have comprehensive coverage, your losses are double in case your car is stolen. You are paying monthly for a car that you cannot drive because the police cannot locate it. Most banks car loans require that you this type of coverage.

You are also covered with your comprehensive car insurance if you get into a car accident because of an animal. If in case you are driving on a high speed road and a cow suddenly crosses, and you collide into the cow, the damages for the car and the animal loss are covered.

Natural disasters can be unpredictable. They can inflict damage to persons, real estate property and to your car. If you have auto insurance comprehensive, damages to your car caused by floods or hail are shouldered. 

You will also enjoy transportation costs if your car is disabled for any covered reason. While waiting for your car to be repaired, your insurance company will provide for your alternative transportation expenses such as no-cost rental car.

Other incidents that are covered by your comprehensive car insurance are riots, explosions, objects falling from the sky, and driving over a high curve. In contrast, property damage auto insurance covers the damages done to the other party's car.

It can also give you protection in case of lawsuit as a consequence of a car accident. Your real estate property, stocks and other valuable belongings are not put into a rush sale to pay for damages. 

Bodily injury auto insurance is helpful in shouldering medical expenses for the other party. In case there is death from the car accident, death claims can be covered by this insurance. And just like the other type of liability insurance, bodily injury liability can be used as a protection in case of lawsuit filed against you.

Comprehensive car insurance can be expensive. However, there are several ways that you can employ to have huge savings or discounts on your premiums. If your car is financed or leases, the financing company may require you to have comprehensive insurance. 
-- At you can get the right comprehensive car insurance. You do need help to get all the insurance figures correct. You don't need comprehensive, if you have an old car. Add liability to your insurance for full coverage. Go to Car comprehensive insurance and find your city agent or get a free quote.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Why should I necessarily insure my car?

Financial obligations with a mandatory character always seem to get people down. We love it when we have a choice, right? So when it comes to paying our regular insurance premiums for having our cars obligatorily covered many people start asking the true purpose of vehicle insurance and why it's imposed on all drivers. Some go all the way to dropping their coverage altogether and driving the roads with no insurance at all. The outcome of such a decision usually comes with a substantial fine or, worse, paying out of own pocket for the damage caused during the accident. So why this type of insurance is mandatory, and moreover logically necessary for any car owner? Let's first look at the facts.

Car insurance is a legal requirement for operating a vehicle in all states of the US. In some states you won't be able to get the plates registered unless you provide a perfectly valid insurance policy. Not meeting the insurance requirements results in fines, license suspension, car confiscation and even time in custody, depending on the state legislation. But what are these insurance requirements in the first place?

Well, it's not that serious as it may seem. The only type of insurance coverage that is actually mandatory in the US is third party liability, which includes bodily injury and property damage. These two types of coverage pay for injuries or damage respectively caused by the policyholder to a third party while operating the insured vehicle. If put simple, third party liability coverage lets you cover the mess that you've caused without having to pay out of own pocket. And while accidents are quite common on the road with so many cars out there, this coverage type assures that everyone has the necessary minimum coverage to pay for the accident if it takes place. That's why car insurance is also used as a proof for the financial ability of the driver to cover the costs of repairs or medical attention that he or she has caused. 

OK, now that we're done with third party liability coverage, many of you might ask about all other coverage types you carry in your policies. It may be a relief for some of you, but they all are purely optional. While you have to meet a certain limit with third party liability, all other coverage types can be freely modified and excluded from the policy. Take note, however, that if you're using a car loan to purchase a new vehicle your contract will usually force you to buy comprehensive and collision coverage as well, so keep an eye out for that.

But let's take a look on the logic side of the matter for a moment. If car insurance wouldn't be mandatory it still would reasonable to purchase it. Why? Simply because it gives you a peace of mind while being behind the wheel. Sure, everybody think that they will never have accidents because they are so good at driving. But accidents still happen and the costs involved in repairs and medical assistance account tens of thousands of dollars. Not many people can afford to cover such costs out of own pocket, that's why we use car insurance and that's why it's a real necessity rather than an option.
Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Cheap car insurance for older drivers - The secrets uncovered

This short report aims to assist you in getting lower premiums. Simple but legal steps can be taken to help reduce your car insurance for older drivers costs. Many tips can be applied instantly although other methods take place over a longer period and take some time to reduce the price of your cover. Some of the methods will not work for you but if you a searching for car insurance for older drivers we are sure that you will learn some important nuggets of information.

Areas we will be looking at are paying for your premium, types of cover, motoring club discounts just to name some of the topics.

Step 1 Upgrade your licence ! An alternative way to save on your car insurance for older drivers is by enrolling on an advanced driving course. Driving courses are available such as Rospa, IAM, and Diamond.

Step 2 Drive a smaller car - Fast and sports car cost much more to insure. Therefore savings can be made on your car insurance for older drivers is to choose your car with insurance costs in mind.

Step 3 Don't accept the first quote ! Allow plenty time to shop around don't leave it too late or your policy may auto renew. Make a list and ring or submit your details online to a minimum of 4 motor insurers. Look through league tables about insurers sometimes quoted in the press newspapers and magazines. Many factor affect your choice of insurer so write down each of the benefits to compare later.

Step 4 To name or not to name ! Naming drivers on your insurance costs more. If the drivers are younger than 25 years old then the costs will be much higher. The secret is to name only those that will drive the car. Sometimes if the person you need to name has their own vehicle they will have the driving other cars extension anyway so could drive you motor on a third party only basis. This may be adequate for you depending on the value of your car. Instead of naming a driver permanently you can add them temporarily part way through your insurance year.

Step 5 Instalments or A one off payment ! The best way to pay for your car insurance is to pay with a one off payment. Nearly all insurance providers make extra money on car insurance for older drivers by charging high interest rates for instalments. If making payment in full is not possible putting the amount on a credit card could be cheaper. Check first but in many cases the APR charged by the insurer will be higher than the Mastercard or Visa company.
Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Save On Car Insurance Quotes

Ways to lower car, auto, automobile insurance.

1. Higher deductable- If your car insurance deductible is $500, you will pay less per month if you make your deductible $1000.  So basically you would pay $1000 if something bad happens out of your pocket. Since your auto insurance is being paid lower, and if you have no accidents, you could use your savings for something more fun. (Like a neater Car)
2. Don't get auto insurance coverage you don’t need. If your car has a low market value, you may not need collision for you automobile insurance. Check the blue book value. If your car current market value isn't worth much more than the deductible, then you really don't need it for your car insurance.
3. Extra medical: If you already have good health and life insurance, you might just need to get the minimum required car insurance. Check other blog on state requirements of car insurance.
4. Consider a lower priced car. A farrari or porche will cost more for car insurance rate than a ford or chevy.
5. Drive less. Do more walking, biking, car pool, subway, train or air plane flying (just kidding on the flying) Check with your great car insurance carrier for a low mileage discount.  Some companies will lower your car insurance rate if you drive under 8000 miles a month. Get a auto insurance quote on the mileage.
6. You will save more money if your car has extra safety accessories. Car insurance companies will want to know about airbags, side impact bags, car alarms, warning systems. Save money with a safe car for car insurance.
7. Teens get lower car insurance rates if they can prove they get good grades. Threaten your teens with paying the car insurance if grades are not up to SPEED (pun)
8. Car insurance policies can be combined for a car insurance discount. Home, life, boat, trailer, motorcycle. Have all your insurance in the same spot and save money. At least get the multi car insurance discount.

9. Other Auto insurance discounts: Try asking for a discount based on age, good driving, accident free, or what you can think of.  The worse the car insurance company will say is no.
10. Think about roadside assistance. Many car insurance companies quote you for this. I personally recomend it.  It's nice to see a tow truck come by when you are stranded on a rainy night on a busy highway. Happened to me. Or if your car won't start in your own driveway, the car insurance company will send someone to jump your car. However, you can also get roadside assistance when you buy your car, through AAA Triple A, and other plans. Car insurance is what I choose.
11. Shop around and ask for free car insurance quotes, auto insurance quotes for cheap insurance.  But make sure you have enough coverage. Read my other blog for car insurance requirements.
Source: http://www.articletrader.com

Cheap Car Insurance Online - Ideas You Should Not Miss

Auto insurance is really a key concern as well as vital for all the driver operators. Finding and also maintaining inexpensive car insurance is a thing which often needs study and knowledge about the insurance policy.

Listed here are the approaches to acquire low-cost auto insurance which may help you to spend less money and acquire a good insurance plan which probably fits your specifications. Right before that, here are some ideas to guide you the way businesses decide on the premium.

1.Brand, make as well as book value of your vehicle being insured

2.Your age as well as marital status

3. The state and also local area you live in

4. Driving record - consisting of incidents and also violations

Listed below are some of the suggestions which are looked at when getting car insurance:

• Checking the things you need. It is the first part in acquiring the insurance with respect to coverage. Every state does have its constraints and depending on the state your vehicle insurance policy is considered. One can find different things which are evaluated like physical damage, personal injury protection and personal property liability and there will be diverse insurance premiums designed for those. 

• Look for an increased insurance deductible. The insurance deductible is usually an sum which the insured will pay following a insurable incident. The higher the deductible the less is the risk the insurance firm takes. This is extremely important element to look at with a great responsibility. 

• Pay out the insurance policy perfectly. Paying of the entire insurance plan at a stretch can gain a lesser amount for the premium.

• Picking the actual limits provides the insurance company to settle optimum sum for the insurable collisions. When you have met with an accident or even claim that crosses the limitations which you have chosen then the excess amount falls on your lap. 

• Search for discount rates that the auto insurance firms deliver. The car insurers offer reductions for anti-theft gadgets, protecting driving course etc. Analyze about what offers your insurance companies are offering which will assist you in confirming the discounted car insurance rates.

• Check the insurance coverage, which you require respective to your state. Uninsured motorist coverage and comprehensive plan are a few protections that are ideal and gives more advantages. Accumulate the data relating to coverages and read them and determine the best option for you. A few insurance coverages offer advantages that you can't afford to exit. This will assist you to obtain rates and find out whether or not you can pay for them.

• Review the prices of all the car insurance companies and get a good option. Most insurance providers give you great discounts to preserve business to get the customers in this very competitive world, thus opt for the better policy from the available alternatives. To purchase cheap insurance quote, just compare the policies of all the companies. Evaluate the insurance deductibles, coverages and limits while evaluating so that you will obtain a better idea of the price and price of the car insurance policy.

While you are calculating auto insurance coverage, cost is not the only thing that will be considered. Get a good outline of all the factors of the coverage and select the policy which can be cheaper and which usually insures you. These approaches tend to be used by people who want to get an affordable insurance quote.
Source: http://www.articletrader.com