Believe it or not, changing insurance companies can be a positive experience, especially when it can save money and provide better coverage. Why stay with your current carrier when there are better available policies out on the market? It’s important to do some research and shop wisely to make the right decision.
You can be confident with your new auto insurance and know you’re getting the best rate and protection when you understand how to switch insurers the right way. You need to remember the following information, so you can enter the process prepared.
Why switch car insurance companies?
Almost every state requires drivers to have insurance, and they will force you to get it. An officer can fine or arrest you otherwise, which often costs you more than the monthly premium. However, there are other reasons why you should purchase car insurance that will be beneficial to you and your vehicle.
For example, you can set up auto insurance for your brand new vehicle to ensure free repairs in case of an accident. You can also switch companies if your credit score has increased or decreased, securing you a better deal. There are various other rationales behind switching your car insurance:
- You moved your residence and find that you are now paying more than you were
- Your child got their license, or you are adding someone to your auto insurance policy
- You want to compare auto quotes with other carriers for a better deal
- You find that you now drive fewer miles, like working remotely from home
- Your driving record has changed
When to Switch Auto Insurance Companies
You can convert to another car insurance company at any time. This even includes when you have open claims. And if necessary, you can switch multiple times without being penalized.
However, just because you can change doesn’t mean you should change. You may be surprised that your existing plan is better than what you can purchase anywhere else.
For example, there are advantages to staying with the same auto insurers. Some companies give loyalty discounts for sticking with the business. Other companies offer accident forgiveness which prevents your rates from going up your vehicle is in an accident.
How to switch car insurance
Transferring your car insurance is relatively easy, and people do it all the time. However, you want to talk to your current insurer before switching car insurance companies. They may enhance your company’s offer on products and services by finding additional discounts for you. You may be able to negotiate a lower rate and save yourself a lot of research time.
It may be that your current carrier refuses to budge despite price matching other policies. In those cases, you should start with these steps to look for new coverage options.
1). Research the Auto Company
Researching the insurance company you’re interested in may be time-consuming, but it is a necessary part when you want to replace your current policy. We recommend looking at a minimum of three providers to review their customer reviews, customer service experience, reputation in the industry, etc.
It’s also a good idea to inquire about limits and deductibles and any additional or hidden fees. You don’t want to make a quick decision to switch and end up with less coverage. And it doesn’t make sense to start working with an auto insurance company that is dishonest with its customers.
2). Purchase the Best Insurance Coverage for Your Needs
The next step is to purchase the new plan with your needs in mind. Compare the rates and coverage options with as many carriers as you can. Then, you can learn about their monthly rates, premiums, available discounts, etc.
If your current auto insurance policy will expire soon, schedule the new policy to begin at least one day before your current coverage expires. Doing this will avoid any lapses in coverage.
You will be required to show proof of insurance in various circumstances, such as getting stopped by law enforcement or if you are in an accident. In as little a gap as 1 day, you can be considered an uninsured driver. It’s much better to have two car insurance policies for 24 hours than none at all.
3). Cancel Your Previous Car Insurance
Once you have your new insurance coverage in place, it’s time to start the cancellation process for your old policy. Remember to check for any cancellation fees.
Call your company and speak to your agent or customer service department to cancel your coverage. It’s a smart idea to write down who you speak to on the call and the date and time. However, you should not just stop paying for your old car insurance policy without officially canceling it.
If you paid for your policy in full at the start of a period, you should get a refund for the unused portion. A reminder that before you end your policy, be sure you receive documentation that your new plan is fully in effect.
4). Update Your Proof of Insurance
The final step is to print out your insurance ID card or download an app to access it. Most states allow you to show a digital ID card if you get pulled over. However, make sure you have a hard copy so you can get to it whether you have cellular service or not. If you get stopped by the police and can’t produce a valid form of car insurance, they will fine you.
And add one more item to add to your “to-do” list. If you have a car loan or lease, inform the lender of your new insurance coverage right away. Their name as a financier is on your old car insurance, which means your old insurance company automatically notifies your lender of the cancellation.
Getting the Best Deal for Your Car Insurance
In a perfect world, your auto insurance company would offer both outstanding customer service and reasonable policy rates. But unfortunately, that is not always the case.
When it’s time to look for new vehicle insurance, the necessary time and research can be a hassle. That’s when you want to turn to an independent company to do the intensive work on your behalf. Brokers are an excellent option to compare dozens of quotes at once, so you know you’re getting the best deal.
Purchasing Through an Independent Insurance Agency
We customize our car insurance switch recommendations to fit your needs and secure you the best auto insurance policy. When your car or motorcycle rates increase or life changes occur, we have a policy that will work for your driving needs.
We have proudly served the Casa Grande and now Maricopa communities since 2004. Our professional agents will shop the nation’s top carriers to find you the absolute best insurance rates with the best coverage to meet your needs.
Call or text us today at (520) 836-3244 to get more information on state requirements and insurance providers. We would love to get you started comparing policies so you know you have the optimum plan without paying too high of a price.