Car Insurance Help

[LR Max]

So I am getting my own car insurance in the next month or so. I currently insure both of my vehicles through my parents insurance (I cut them a check every month for the amount) but they told me I am growing up or something so I need to get my own. Fair enough. I am not too concerned because I have never gotten a ticket and have never been at fault in an accident.

I see the commericals for going online and comparing insurance rates, etc. However, these ARE commericals so I expect there might be some sort of gimmick and I am not taking them at face value.

Also I understand that they will check my credit. This is fine (I have good credit) but will all this credit checking mess up my credit score? I would hate to screw myself over because I hit the "get quote" button too many times.

Lastly there are some insurance companies in town with offices. I could go and talk to them but I figure they will say the same, or possibly attempt to screw me over worse than whatever their website says.

Does anyone have any opinions on this subject or any other words of advice?

Thanks.

 

[brianhoberg]

Don't go snag a ton of quotes, but go with the larger firms as they tend to have more resources available to assist you in your coverage and making your decision. I'd look at Geico, State Farm, and then a local one. You can play them against each other by taking the quote from one and comparing it to another and then indicating your would really like to consider their company, but the other company is offering a better deal. Often they will lower premiums within certain amounts to entice you to move over to their company. Also remember, as you become a homeowner, get personal property insurance, or look for life insurance, you can often get discounts by bundling your coverages with the same company. but ALWAYS compare quotes and drive for a lower premium.

I work for a financial services company and we offer insurance as one of our products. The more policies you have with a company, the more they are willing to lower premiums for coverage and try to keep you as a happy customer. Just my 2 cents.
-Brian.

 

[asmith996]

I've had really good luck with Erie insurance. Cheapest for me by a mile. Also, their multi policy discount worked out to be the same amount as renters insurance.....so free renters insurance. Worth a look if they offer insurace in your state.

 

[rmuller]

as far as I know, they dont check your credit just to give you a quote... I just got a quote from Geico a couple days ago, and I don't think it asked for my SS# or permission to check my credit.

 

[Roverlady]

I had USAA through my family and when I first went on my own. They were great but VERY expensive.

When we got married, I switched over to Erie b/c my husband and his family have always used them. Rates are very reasonable and we have the three vehicles and one house discount!
They have been good to us so far, but I've heard they are quick to drop if you get in trouble. Probably the best price for the Rovers that we've found.

I'd start with talking to someone at the company where your parents have their insurance...they might give you a good deal to stay with them. Then go to some local offices and talk to people in person. It's nice to know where you can go and who you can call when you have a question.

 

[adriatic04]

i have erie, always have. second the notion of everyone else, they are very reasonable, but will drop you quickly. they are quicker to drop on the home warranty than auto, but will also do it on auto. i had to file a claim for my truck when it was broken into, I was advised, and also agreed, not to file a home claim to recapture lost articles, its just not worth it. save the claim for a catastrophic event when you need it most.

drive careful, and you will be rewarded in low premiums.

 

[D90DC]

MY son is 16 and I just added him to my SF policy 680 every 6 months... OUCH.... Did Obama promise us cheaper insurance?

 

[jhmover]

No...that was the Geico Geko

 

[LR Max]

Thanks for the help. I am looking around and I am getting some fairly decent rates considering the vehicle I am about to get (small, fast car, probably a stupid move on my part but I am only going to be young once!).

I do have a good driving record, spotless and have also been to extra driving school (not court ordered).

 

[Roverlady]

Good luck. Have fun and drive slow!!

 

[Lake_Bueller]

I've always had good luck going to an independent insurance agency. They usually represent a number of different companies.

 

[jhk07]

When comparing policies... be sure sure you are comparing apples to apples.... Amounts of coverage may not be the same. The same goes for deductibles... Higher deductible usually equals lower premium. The lowest "cost" policy may not be the "best" policy for you.. my $.02

 

[bri]

Progressive is cheap if you are into cheap. Allstate always treated me right, but for some reason I have heard complaints from others.