Factors That Affect the Cost of Car Insurance

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While there are many factors to consider in selecting car insurance, there are certain factors that affect cost. Cities are more dense than other places, so drivers will pay a higher premium. The density also means more accidents, vandalism, and repair costs, so drivers in cities should budget more for their insurance. In addition, city drivers will also pay a higher premium if they choose to park their vehicle on the street rather than in a garage. In addition, drivers with poor credit may pay a higher rate, although some states have laws against rating drivers based on their credit history.

Coverage for bodily injury and property damage
If you are involved in an accident that causes another person to suffer injuries, you may be eligible for car insurance coverage for bodily injury and property damage. This type of coverage helps pay for funeral and medical expenses, as well as lost wages, if you cause an accident. Your insurance policy may also pay for the repair or replacement of other people's vehicles, fences, or other items. Here are some reasons why you should consider purchasing bodily injury liability coverage.

Minimum liability coverage required in most states
In most states, you are required to carry car insurance, at the very least liability coverage. In New Hampshire, you are not required to carry insurance, but you must show proof of financial responsibility. However, in other states, you have the option of paying a small fee to waive car insurance, such as in New Jersey, or to drive without insurance. If you are caught driving without insurance, you can be penalized with hefty fines and jail time. Not to mention the added cost of license reinstatement. Besides fines, you may also be required to pay extra for lapses in your coverage, and you will be responsible for any damages you cause to others, including theirs.

Cost of car insurance
In most states, your credit score is an important factor in determining the cost of car insurance. Insurance companies link poor credit to a higher likelihood of filing insurance claims. Those with good credit pay $783 less on average for a policy. However, the impact of your credit score varies by state. State Farm drivers who have bad credit may see their premium double in four states. Nationwide drivers with poor credit can pay up to $25 more per year than those with good credit.

Requirements by state
Most states require some level of car insurance coverage. The requirements vary from state to state, but in general, you should have at least 25/50/25 coverage. In other words, in Alabama you must have at least $25,000 bodily injury liability coverage and $50,000 property damage insurance per accident. Similarly, in New Hampshire and Virginia, you don't need car insurance at all, but it is still a good idea to have coverage for your car in the event of an accident.

Getting a quote online
When you apply for car insurance online, you can get a quote for the amount of coverage you need. Once you enter the required information, the application process can start immediately. The website will ask you for information such as the make, model, and mileage of your car. You can also enter details about the driver in order to get a customized quote. However, you should be aware that many auto insurance companies share personal information with third parties.​
 
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