Finding affordable car insurance isn’t always easy. However, this is especially true when consumers buy into the many myths that have circulated about this coverage for a long time. As you get ready to buy your next policy, it definitely pays to know the facts. Following are the top six myths about car insurance San Diego drivers should know about and the truths that lie behind them.
1. Your Car Color Will Make a Difference in Your Premiums
When purchasing your next vehicle, you don’t have to avoid the hot red model with the ideal price tag. Despite what others may tell you, the color of your car won’t have any impact on your premiums. Certain makes and models of vehicles have a tendency to generate more and larger claims than others. While factors like these get weighed in when calculating your premiums, color will not.
2. Older Cars Don’t Require Comprehensive Coverage to Protect Against Theft
Though it doesn’t make sense to pay more than your car’s resale value in premiums, an older car can actually be a prime target for theft. These vehicles often lack the advanced security features of newer cars. Certain older makes are also notorious for being easy to steal. Whether they’re looking for a trusty and reliable ride or simply targeting a few hard-to-find parts, thieves may find your parked auto simply too tempting to pass up. If you rely on your vehicle to get to and from work and need an additional layer of safety, make sure to add theft protection to your plan.
3. Your Rates Will Automatically Go Up if You Get a Ticket
Good drivers don’t automatically see increases in their rates after getting tickets. Many insurance companies have driver and accident forgiveness programs for policyholders who are generally low-risk. However, DUI offenders and others with high-risk profiles can experience both rate increases and refusals to renew policies.
4. Guest Drivers Are Covered by Their Own Insurance
Think twice before you toss your friend your keys. If a guest driver gets into an accident and he or she is at fault, your insurer will be covering the damages. In fact, your coverage will pay for damages until the limits of your policy are reached. Only then will your friend’s insurance start kicking in.
5. Personal Property Is Covered by Your Auto Insurance
While a comprehensive plan can offer bumper-to-bumper protection for any damages sustained as a result of accidents, vandalism, or theft, this protection doesn’t apply to anything stored in the car. For instance, reimbursement for a break-in will likely cover damaged windows, doors, and other vehicle features, but it won’t cover a new laptop stashed beneath the passenger seat. However, this and other personal items may be covered by your homeowners or renters insurance.
6. Getting Married Will Cause Your Car Insurance Premiums to Go Down
Although married drivers are statistically less likely to be involved in car accidents, getting hitched doesn’t always mean you’re going to save money on insurance. Your spouse may have poor credit or a bad driving record. In this case, your cost for coverage may actually go up.
Drivers who are searching for reliable, affordable auto insurance should reach out to the experienced professionals at Altra Insurance Services. In addition to car insurance, we offer a variety of insurance products, including motorcycle, business, and homeowners insurance. San Diego residents can call one of our friendly agents today at 619-474-6666 for a free quote.