If you’re in the market for car insurance, the search can be overwhelming and uncertain. After all, you want to ensure you’re getting reliable coverage at an affordable rate. It may be tempting to go with the first price quote that comes your way. However, it’s best to shop around until you find a favorable price. Here are several do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when shopping for insurance for your vehicle.

Do:

Have a financial backup plan.

Perhaps you have an older car that you recently paid off. You carried comprehensive and collision coverage as added protection against the unexpected and your lender required this type of car insurance as a condition of financing. Now, you want to drop the coverage to save a bit of money. If you do so, be sure to have savings set aside just in case you’re involved in an accident and the damages exceed your policy’s threshold. A good rule is to save an amount equal to your car’s current value. 

Compare car insurance quotes.

It’s worth the time and effort to compare quotes from several car insurance companies. You could be missing out on budget-friendly coverage that offers more protection for your vehicle. As renewal approaches on a current policy, start looking at other options. If you find better deals, you may even be able to get your existing provider to match or beat them. 

Don’t:

Stick with your state’s minimum car insurance requirements. 

Most states require drivers to have a minimum amount of coverage to pay for property damage and medical expenses. The car insurance is designed to pay for damages inflicted on other drivers if you were found to be the cause of an accident. If the expenses exceed your policy’s threshold, you’ll be responsible for paying those out-of-pocket costs. Strongly consider getting additional coverage such as underinsured/uninsured protection in case you’re involved in an accident with a driver who has no coverage but is at fault. 

Let your car insurance coverage lapse.

Besides being illegal to drive a vehicle without car insurance, not having coverage could hurt you later. Car insurance providers may wonder why you let your policy lapse and might be reluctant to issue you coverage. You could also face higher rates if you’ve been without car insurance for a certain amount of time. If you’re planning to go with a new provider, be sure to secure coverage with them first before dropping your existing coverage. 

When it comes to car insurance, doing a bit of homework pays off in the long run. P.D.H. Insurance Brokerage in Valley Stream, NY, will gladly help you search for customized and affordable coverage. As an insurance broker with more than 30 years of experience, the agency partners with a network of leading providers. You can count on getting the unique coverage you need for your vehicle. For free quotes, call (516) 561-5227. Check out their website for details on insurance services.