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Thursday, December 22, 2011

Adjustments That You Should Consider for Your Auto Insurance Policy

An auto insurance policy should not be a static line of coverage. After all, your life changes; medical and liability expenses that can accompany an accident change too.
Considering changes to your life happen in the blink of an eye, you should make an effort annually to adjust your auto policy to ensure that it is as effective and accurate as you need it to be.

Annual Adjustments to Your Auto Policy You Should Consider

Average annual miles driven: Your insurance carrier requires an average of how many miles you drive per year in order to assess the risk you pose to them. Every year, make sure you report any major changes to them.

Take advantage of applicable discounts: You may receive discounts when you add anti-theft measures to your car, such as security alarms and wheel locking devices. You may also receive additional discounts for taking defensive driving classes. Prior to your annual renewal, consider which of these discounts you may qualify for and discuss them with your agent.

Add uninsured motorist rider: Without uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, you could be stuck with some major bills after an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist. If you don’t already have uninsured or underinsured motorist, then you need to consider adding it to your policy.

Adjust your limits: You know that you set limits for your risk exposure with your agent when you initially purchased your policy; but, when was the last time you reviewed your risk exposure with your agent? With the rising cost of medical care, as well as possible changes in your driving habits, you may need to increase your limits to help reduce your exposure. As you’re also aware, cars and other personal property are only getting more expensive; another important reason to keep a tight rein on your limits.

Change your deductibles: Your ability to support your deductible may change from year to year. In lean years, you may have fewer savings to commit to a deductible, and as you pay off debt you might find you have more disposable income to put toward that responsibility. Keeping your deductible at an accurate level for your budget will help to control your risk exposure and your premium.

The next time your auto policy is coming up for renewal, remember these tips and update your policy so that it works with your current life and not the one you had when you originally took out the policy. Call us today at 866-933-6691 for more information about which auto insurance policy is right for you or get a free Tampa auto insurance quote.

JG