How do you make sure that the auto insurance company you choose is going to be worth the money you’re paying them? How will the company interact with you when you file a claim?
Here’s a few tips:
1) Check the auto insurance company under your state’s department of insurance Web site. Every state has a department of insurance. Check for published “consumer complaint ratios” for all of the insurance companies that sell policies in their state. Use complaint ratios to screen prospective insurers.
By now you should already have a list of auto insurance companies with the lowest premium quotes. Choose the best company with the lowest premiums and the lowest complaint ratios.
2) Check out which auto insurers are recommended by local body shops. Contact local body shops that you trust and ask for their recommendations. They are most likely to know which companies have the easiest claims.
3) Use the JD Power Ratings. JD Power collects data from policyholders nationwide and rates them according to coverage options, price, claims handling, satisfaction with company representatives and the overall experience.
4) Look at the auto insurers’ financial standing. Look at the AM Best and Standard & Poor’s ratings. Both companies publish financial ratings for all insurance companies.
5) Consider talking with an agent. Auto insurance companies like Esurance, Geico and others nowadays allow you to purchase insurance directly — over the phone from a customer service representative or online.
Eminently Practical Advice - it’s best to make sure you have cheap and good comprehensive auto insurance on your side to cover those unexpected events on and off the road. Get a free quote and compare what you’re paying for auto insurance now.
C.T.
