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When you have a car, you auto insurance can be one of the biggest ownership expenses you have. It only makes sense that you should shop around and get quotes from several different insurance companies with several different insurance packages.
Your first step to shopping for auto insurance quotes is to make a list of everything you must have in an auto insurance package. Maybe you just need liability, or if you just bought a new car, you may be in the market for comprehensive coverage. Whatever you need make sure that you know what you are looking for.
After you have decided what is necessary, make a list of any optional insurance components that you may be interested in. You will also need to decide what level of deductible yo are comfortable with. A lower deductible means you will have less out of pocket expenses in the event you have an accident, but it can mean significantly higher insurance premiums.
Once you have a list of insurance requirements, do you research. Look in your phone book for local insurance agents that will provide quotes. Many local agents will provide quotes over the phone, but some will require that you come into the office. After you have checked your local agents, hit the Internet and find insurance companies that do business online. Some insurers will give instant online quotes, but many will require that you call their headquarters and speak to an insurance specialist. Make a list of insurers that provide the services you need and prioritize them.
Once you have your lists in place, gather the documentation that you will need to request a quote. You will need your car's vehicle identification number, your drivers license number and in some cases a copy of your driving history. You may also need your social security number handy.
When you request your first quote on the phone, be prepared to spend time with the insurance specialist answering questions about you driving patterns. After you have given the representative all of the required information, you may be offered rates for a number of different packages and deductibles. If you know exactly what you want, you may be able to tell the insurance agent what level of coverage you are looking for. This can trim some time from your quote shopping.
Once you have called or gone online and gathered you initial quotes, it is time to compare premiums with coverage rates. You can also find additional benefits with different insurance companies. Some insurance companies offer reduced rates for ever billing period without an accident. Others offer accident forgiveness and still other insurance companies will offer perks like discounts at local merchants or free airline miles.
Compare the benefits and costs of each insurance quote. If you find a plan you like, but it is more than you can afford, you can use quotes from other companies to try and negotiate a lower rate,especially if you are dealing with a local insurance agent.
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Another good resource for online car insurance quotes from several companies is:
http://www.carinquotes.com
Thanks again Richard!