Auto Insurance
Driving is a privilege, but it comes with a price tag. There’s the cost of the vehicle itself, maintenance, repairs, fuel and auto insurance. Massachusetts requires you to carry a basic, minimum level of auto insurance. It’s a way of sharing the risks among all the licensed drivers in the state. In return, your insurance coverage can protect you against most financial losses that might occur as a result of an automotive accident.
Auto insurance is more than a matter of insuring your vehicle for loss or repairs after an accident. It is a financial safety net that can help you offset the cost of:
- Bodily injuries to yourself or others
- Lost wages due to injury
- Benefits to survivors when an accident results in death
- Lawsuits brought against you as the result of an accident
- Repairs made to your auto due to damage caused in an accident
This Website will assist you in making some important decisions about your automobile insurance. How much total insurance coverage do you really need? How much liability insurance do you need? Is there any way to save money on your Auto insurance?
At the Gulde Insurance Agency we will gladly assist you in determining the level of coverage that best suits your financial needs. As always, if you have any questions, feel free to send us an e-mail, call our office or stop in to speak to one of our client focused Customer Service Representatives.
What is auto insurance?
Auto insurance protects you against financial loss if you have an accident. It is a contract between you and the insurance company. You agree to pay the premium and the insurance company agrees to pay your losses as defined in your policy.
Auto insurance provides property, liability and medical coverage:
- Property coverage pays for damage to or theft of your car.
- Liability coverage pays for your legal responsibility to others for bodily injury or property damage.
- Medical coverage pays for the cost of treating injuries, rehabilitation and sometimes lost wages and funeral expenses.
An auto insurance policy is comprised of six different kinds of coverage. Most states require you to buy some, but not all, of these coverages. If you’re financing a car, your lender may also have requirements.
Most auto policies are for six months or a year. Your insurance company should notify you by mail when it’s time to renew the policy and to pay your premium.
Why do you need auto insurance?
It’s really all about protecting yourself financially.
- If you’re in an accident or your car is stolen, it costs money, often a lot of money, to fix or replace it.
- If you or any passengers are injured in an accident, medical costs can be extremely expensive.
- If you or your car is responsible for damage or injury to others, you may be sued for much more than you’re worth.
- Not only is having insurance a prudent financial decision, many states require you to have at least some coverage.
Questions to ask your agent
Your Independent Agent is an advocate for finding auto insurance that meets your specific needs. Here are a few things to consider as you prepare for the discussion:
- How much can you afford to pay if you get in an accident? (To keep premiums low you may want to have a higher deductible and be willing to pay more for repairs.)
- What is the insurance company’s level of service and ability to pay claims?
- What discounts are available? (Ask about good driver, multiple policy and student discounts.)
- What’s the procedure for filing and settling a claim? (Ask who to call and what happens after you file a claim.)
How to Get Auto Insurance
Gulde Insurance Agency is committed to helping you find a policy to fit your specific needs. Reach out to us today to start the conversation or to get a quote.