By Todd Powers
Alfa Insurance
When shopping for insurance rates, it’s important to evaluate the company and the agent or representative you’ll be working with. When you’re faced with an insurance claim, and stress is high, you’re going to want someone that can help you during the process. After finding an agent you trust, there are a few questions you should ask. If he or she can’t answer the questions below, it may be time to find another agent.
Do I have enough car insurance coverage?
Each state requires different minimum policy limits, so having “enough” insurance may mean different things to different people, and there’s no such thing as “full coverage”. One serious claim could quickly knock out your policy limits, so talk to your agent about additional coverages and features and ask for quotes on various policy limits. You may be surprised how little your premium goes up for a substantial bump in coverage limits.
What isn’t covered on my auto insurance policy?
After you understand what your auto policy coverages and limits are, it’s important to know what your policy does NOT cover. Ask specific questions about what is not covered because you may be surprised. Does your policy include coverage for any rental cars you may be driving? If someone else is driving your car when an accident happens, will your policy still cover the damages? Don’t assume you already know the answers.
What happens after I file a claim?
Ask your agent about the typical turnaround time for providing a claim. Ask if you will be dealing directly with the agent or with a claims adjuster on claims status updates? Having to file an insurance claim is never fun; but, knowing what to expect and how the process will go may ease your worries. Read customer reviews online about the company’s claims service to get more insight.
Alfa® lets you file a claim through your agent or service center, by phone at 1-800-964-2532, online, or through the Alfa2Go® mobile app.
What is my deductible? How much will I have to pay if I’m in an accident?
Your deductible is the amount of money you pay before your auto insurance will pay out additional expenses, up to the policy limit. Typically, the higher the deductible you choose, the lower the auto premium; but make sure you choose a deductible that you can reasonably afford.
Ask your agent to confirm what you will have to pay out of pocket following an accident, and find out if there are any fees beside the deductible that you may have to come out of pocket for (like the price of a rental car while your car is in the shop, for example).
Should I get an umbrella policy?
An umbrella policy is liability coverage that goes beyond your auto and homeowners liability limits. Considering a personal umbrella policy is always a good idea for added protection. Ask your agent if he or she thinks an umbrella policy is something you need in addition to your auto policy.
Whether you’re a first-time insurance buyer or a long-time policyholder, Alfa’s hometown agents are ready to answer any questions you may have. Contact Todd Powers today and get a free quote!
Todd Powers
tpowers@alfains.com
256-883-8598
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South Huntsville Neighbors 