Common Mistakes Drivers Make When Comparing Car Insurance Quotes

Car insurance shopping can feel daunting with endless companies, bundles, and discounts all claiming to offer the best price. But the truth is that comparing quotes isn't about the cheapest price; it's about finding the right coverage for your needs, lifestyle, and location. However, many drivers make mistakes when comparing car insurance quotes, and those mistakes can mean they pay more in the future, or they are underinsured when they need it most. Here are the most common mistakes we see when comparing car insurance quotes, and how to avoid them:  

1. Only Looking at Price  

It's so tempting to just look at the price. Unfortunately, low premiums usually mean limited protection. For example, a policy may not cover important items like roadside assistance, uninsured driver protection, or provide comprehensive coverage. Instead, examine what is minimally included in your policy. A few extra dollars a month can protect you in the future when it is time to file your claim and resolve the accident.

2. Comparing Differently Sized Coverage

Drivers often make one of the worst mistakes of comparing a bad quote with a quote covering completely different coverage amounts. A terrible quote for liability coverage, versus a quote for full coverage, which includes collision and comprehensive coverage. When you compare coverage, make sure you're comparing apples to apples—make sure coverage types, limits, and deductibles are the same. Otherwise, that quote found for a “better deal” just doesn’t have several beneficial coverages.

3. Higher Deductibles

Usually, higher deductibles mean lower monthly payment amounts, but higher out-of-pocket expenses for your accident claim. Most drivers don't take this into account when comparing quotes and are surprised when the accident expenses become theirs due to the deductible amounts.  When comparing quotes from insurance providers in the area, choose a deductible you can afford without financial stress.

4. Discounts

A lot of local insurers offer deals for good drivers, bundled policies, and students with good grades. There may even be loyalty discounts for good drivers who have been with the insurer without any claims. When getting quotes for an insurance company nearby, be sure to ask about any discount options. To help make the number better for insurance, with every discount offered. Your discount may as well make the number add up, especially as so many of the local companies offer customizable options.

5. Overlooking Customer Service and Claims Process

Two policies could be the same price, but one insurance company might take weeks to process your claim while the other only takes days. Reading customer reviews on insurance companies near you is a great way to verify how they process claims in real life. You cannot put a value on having reliable local customer support when you need it.

6. Avoiding the Professional Consultation

Online tools are great, but they can't replace someone with insurance expertise. A local independent insurance consultant can review your quotes, discuss the fine print you might not have considered, and advise on the best coverage based on your driving behavior and lifestyle.

In Closing

Shopping for car insurance quotes is much more than finding the lowest cost; shopping for car insurance quotes is about finding the best coverage for your peace of mind. If you keep things like coverage limits, deductibles, and customer service in mind, you can be a wise and confident shopper.

Before you make a final decision, reach out to a reputable insurance company that you trust in your neighborhood. A professional consultation today can save you money in the future.