Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Insure That Vehicle

While what I am about to write is in regards to New Jersey car insurance many of the things in this article also will be valuable to you no matter what state you live in.
Vehicle insurance is a mandatory thing just about everywhere it is mandatory in the state of New Jersey. But, how much coverage does one need? While maintaining current liability, PIP and uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory for all motorists, there are no specified coverage limits set. This state DOBI (Department of Banking and Insurance) only recommends minimum limits. Is the minimum required by law good enough? Let's look at some insurance myths and find out.

Having no-fault insurance means that I will never be found to be at fault in an accident.
This is not true. No-fault insurance simply means that your insurance company will cover you regardless of who causes an accident that you're involved in. This isn't no fault divorce here, this is vehicle accidents!

If I allow somebody else to drive my car and he or she is involved in an accident, that person will be covered by their own insurance company.

This is not true. The other person's insurance may or may not cover damages in excess of your coverage limits. Also, this accident will go on your record of insurance and very most likely cause your premiums to rise. Look carefully at that last statement! Most likely your premiums will go up even though you were not driving your car at the time of the accident. Makes you think twice about loaning your car to anyone, doesn't it?

I do not have a comprehensive coverage policy, but I'm still covered if I hit a deer or if my car gets stolen.

This is not true. Vandalism, accidents involving animals, fire, theft, hail storms, hurricanes, tornadoes and other similar happenings are not covered by liability or collision insurance. That's what comprehensive insurance coverage is all about.

Whatever type of vehicle you drive, no matter where you live or drive, vehicle insurance that covers everything that might arise is a must. You need to take the time to sit down with an insurance agent and explain what it is that you need and let an expert help you with getting the most for the least amount of your wallet.
You may also want to look at what you truly need in order to be covered outside your state. Does your insurance cover you if say you live in New Jersey but drive to work every day into New York State? Let your agent know where you drive each day as there may be variables there that both of you need to concern yourselves with.
Auto insurance in New Jersey, like in all states, is surrounded by many vehicle insurance myths. Never assume that what you hear others saying is the truth concerning your particular insurance policy. Take the time to read the fine print and talk with your insurance agent in order to discern the truth about your individual situations.

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