We all want the best Pa. auto insurance that money can buy…and we want it at “walmart” prices. It’s the new, evolved american way !
Problem with many of us that go too fast is overlooking some simple items. Simple items that can affect your bottom line.
I’ll list a few things we deal with on a weekly basis that you should be aware of. I hope you’ll keep these in mind if the subject comes up.
No Fault- Pennsylvania is a no-fault state, so my premiums won’t go up. Very common mistake. Pennsylvania applies the no-fault to only one portion of your auto insurance policy. The First Party Benefits(FPB) portion of your policy operates on a “no fault” basis. Simply put, your auto policy will pay out under your policy for any “first party benefit” claim regardless of who is actually at fault in the accident. Example: You’re hit from behind while stopped at a red light…you’re FPB will pay “your” medical and work loss benefits. Your insurance is not legally permitted to persue the other driver or their insurance company to recover any of these paid expenses. Examples can include any injury that is suffered as a result of a motor vehicle, even if it is not “your” vehicle. You Can be surcharged for an “at fault” accident that results in a certain $$ amount being paid out by your insurer. You cannot be surcharged if the accident was not determined to be your fault.
I’ll add my young driver to my policy later, when its more convenient. Unfortunately, we cannot monitor or babysit those who do not add their youthful operators to their policy. In recent situations involving young drivers who were not listed on the policy I’ve noticed a trend developing. The insurer is offering to pay the submitted claim…minus the $$ in premium that would have been paid beginning on the date the young driver was licensed. Bottom line… pay now or pay later.
Slid on Black Ice so It’s Not My Fault. No news flash here but…. black ice is a misnomer, there is no such thing. The road is black, the ice is still ice…it’s clear. Your insurer’s view of these accidents…you got in the car on a cold, possibly icy day and took the chance on driving under those conditions. You need to accept responsibility that your actions, inactions or simple “choice” in these conditions that led to the accident. It will be considered your fault. Maybe Oprah will see it your way, but your insurance company will not.
Switching Companies For a Few Dollars in Savings. Let’s get one thing clear, I work on commissions….no secret there. I love to get new clients and build new relationships because it’s in my nature, that we can blame on God. I do, however, need to get paid for the work I do in between all the fun. When you come to my office, online or my competitors office and get a quote that saves you a few dollars, you shouldn’t even be thinking about changing based on price. If it’s a service issue,a personality conflict, claims, I understand. But if it’s for only a few dollars…quite frankly…you’ll be looking again next year. What do you risk ?? how about accident forgiveness? We do have companies that will “grandfather” accident forgiveness to clients who’ve earned it at their current carrier. Even then, you need a good reason to switch other than a few dollars. So… even though I may be giving up some pay…I’d suggest you stay put unless you’re in desperate need of better service, my charming personality or you’ve just moved to town.
There… I’ve covered a few that are on the top of my mind, but I’ll be back with more in the future.
Got some questions ?? Fire off an email to me and I’ll be sure to get you an answer or at the very least I’ll forward your request on to Santa.
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