Auto insurance is something all drivers need, but no one wants to use. However, statistics show that the average driver will file claims for three or four accidents in a lifetime, or once every 17 years. That does not account for the damages a vehicle may suffer due to non-collision related events, such as theft, vandalism, and inclement weather. With so many hazards, a poorly insured driver could easily face thousands of dollars in damages, as well as liability expenses.
If there is one thing that Milwaukee area drivers know, it is that the weather can change in an instant. Year after year we are faced with snowstorms, blizzards and treacherous driving conditions. It is not uncommon to hear of accidents – especially multi-car pileups along slick roadways. Who would be responsible if you were a victim in a large pileup accident? Would the insurance of another driver pay for damages to your vehicle? What about the vehicle you hit during the wreck?
Obviously, liability in an accident is not always as cut and dry as it may seem. Whether you are responsible for an accident yourself or you are the victim of an uninsured or underinsured driver, it pays to know you are covered. Collisions come in all types, from small fender benders to major car accidents that total the vehicles involved and send passengers and drivers to the hospital. Similarly, auto insurance can span a wide range of coverage, from basic liability to comprehensive protection.
Car Insurance FAQs
How much auto insurance do I need in Wisconsin?
The Wisconsin minimum auto insurance requirements are designed to provide a small level of protection in the event you damage someone else’s property, or you cause harm to another person. In Wisconsin, drivers need a minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for Bodily Injury Liability Coverage and $10,000 per accident for Property Damage Liability Coverage.
What is the best deductible?
The best deductible is what you can afford to pay out of pocket when you file an auto insurance claim. The higher the deductible, the lower your premium will be, and vice versa. A higher deductible means your accepting a more significant portion of the risk yourself. It is best not to take on more risk than you can afford.
What is “full coverage?”
There is no such thing as “full coverage” insurance. Full coverage auto insurance is a term that is used to suggest you have chosen protection that goes beyond the minimum coverage required by your State. It typically includes collision and comprehensive coverage, personal injury protection or medical payment coverage, and uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.
How can I save money on my car insurance?
You can save money on your car insurance by avoiding moving violations, crashes, DUIs, and other incidents. By having a clean driving record, you may also qualify for a safe driver discount. Students may qualify for good student and student-away-at-school discounts. Your vehicle’s anti-theft devices and safety features may also provide more discounts. Paid-in-full, multi-car, and prior carrier discounts are also common.
How long does an auto accident affect my insurance?
A crash won’t impact your car insurance premiums forever. After about three to five years, your rates should recover. Exactly how long this takes will depend on the type of accident as well as the company you are insured with.
Is buying direct cheaper than buying through an agent?
Buying direct is not always cheaper than buying through an agent. You might think that cutting out the middleman would result in cheaper car insurance rates, but when it comes to insurance, this isn’t the case. In fact, an independent agent, one that represents many insurance companies, can often save you money.
What is the best auto insurance company?
The best auto insurance company differs per individual. No insurance company is objectively the best. It all depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want the best customer service, the broadest coverage, or the lowest rates? Or maybe you have unique coverage or underwriting needs? An agent can help you compare car insurance quotes from multiple insurance companies and find the right policy for your situation.
What is the best or cheapest auto insurance rate?
The best or cheapest auto insurance rate can be found by comparison shopping. Compare premiums as well as differences in coverage. An independent insurance agent can help. They can provide options from multiple carriers, along with the expert guidance you need to make a smart choice.
How do I switch to a new auto insurance company?
You can switch to a new auto insurance company at any time, but to avoid overpaying or violating state law, you do need to watch out for a couple of things. Car insurance policies are often sold for coverage periods of six months or one year. In some cases, you may be charged a fee if you decide to cancel your insurance policy early. You may also be entitled to a refund for the unused portion of the premium. You also want to make sure you have continuous coverage to avoid a coverage gap.
Choosing Auto Insurance that Fits Your Needs
At Carrigan Insurance, we know our customers are interested in two things – affordability and peace of mind. It is our job to provide access to auto insurance that meets the needs of policy-holders without costing an arm and a leg. After all, you work hard for your money. We think you should be allowed to keep more of it.
We help our customers compare coverage and rates from several of the state’s leading insurance carriers. Coverage is available to protect your vehicle, any property you damage, and the cost of injuries to victims in an accident. Your policy can include:
Liability
Liability damages can quickly wipe out your entire life savings without the right amount of coverage. State minimums are often not enough to scratch the surface on medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our team can help you determine how much liability protection you need to protect the life you have worked so hard to acquire.
Collision
If you cause an accident, collision insurance helps pay to repair or replace your vehicle and its contents. Collision insurance helps pay shop bills and ensures you do not have to pay out of pocket for another vehicle if yours is totaled. You can also include additional coverage for towing expenses after an accident or rental car reimbursement while your vehicle is being repaired.
Comprehensive
Comprehensive insurance is coverage for damages and losses not caused by an accident. It pays when a hail storm leaves golf ball-sized dings on the roof of your car, or worse, someone steals your vehicle while you are shopping for groceries. With comprehensive insurance, you are covered against a wide range of possible losses.
Every driver needs car insurance, but determining how much coverage to purchase can be confusing. As independent agents, we work for you, helping you to determine how much liability protection you might need to protect your income and assets. To learn more about Wisconsin auto insurance or to request your free quote, contact our office today.
