7 Things to Always Tell Your Insurance Agent When Purchasing New Insurance
Tuesday, March 28, 2023
7 Things to Always Tell Your Insurance Agent When Purchasing New Insurance
Firstly, it's important to do the right thing and contact the police and/or call your agent immediately after an accident. However, calling the 1-800 number on your insurance policy can sometimes lead to unwanted consequences, as it may be handled by call centers that don't have the necessary training. Instead, if you have an agent, it's best to call them first to get advice on what steps to take before filing a claim.
The second important thing to disclose is your driving habits. Changes in your driving behavior can affect the price you pay for insurance. For example, if you drive less than 5,000 miles per year, you may qualify for a low-mileage discount. There are also new programs that allow you to pay a lower base rate and then pay per mile, as mileage is a key factor that affects risk.
The third piece of information to disclose is the security system on your vehicle. Adding an alarm system, blind-spot mirrors, or a vehicle recovery system can all earn you discounts on your policy.
The fourth thing to disclose is if you're using your car for business purposes, as this can affect your policy. If you're a ride-share driver, for example, you'll need to ensure that you have proper insurance coverage.
The fifth important piece of information to share is if you've made any modifications to your vehicle. This can include cosmetic modifications, as well as mechanical upgrades, which can all impact the price of your insurance policy.
The sixth thing to communicate is if you're married or have children, as some insurance companies offer discounts to married couples or parents with young drivers on their policy.
Lastly, it's important to let your agent know if you've had any recent life changes, such as a new job, a move, or a change in your credit score. These changes can also affect the price you pay for your insurance policy.
By communicating these seven key pieces of information with your insurance agent, you can ensure that you're getting the coverage you need at a fair price. While some of these details may result in a higher premium, others may earn you valuable discounts, ultimately saving you money in the long run.