Tips for comparing Car Insurance Rates

If you are doing an annual review of your finances or if you just bought a new car, comparing car insurance rates can be a good way to evaluate if you are getting more for your money.

The Insurance Information Institute (III) suggests getting at least three quotes from auto insurance providers. Every quote you get should be for the same set of coverages, limits and deductibles, so you can actually compare them side by side.

At GUARDIAN INSURANCE AGENCY located in Fairburn, Lagrange and Norcross, we give you some important information on how you should compare your auto insurance rates:

1. Set similar deductibles: 

Some car insurance coverages, such as collision coverage and comprehensive coverage, typically come with a deductible that you may be able to adjust. A deductible is the amount you'll pay out of pocket toward a covered claim. Increasing your deductible may lower your car insurance premiums. However, a higher deductible means you'll pay more out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in after a covered loss.

When you are comparing car insurance rates, the deductibles you choose should be the same for each quote so you can make an accurate comparison.

2. Select appropriate liability limits:

Auto liability coverage is required in most states. Liability coverage may help pay for car repair and medical bills of another driver if you cause an accident.

Most states set minimum liability coverage limits that drivers must purchase but have the option of increasing your auto liability limits. If you cause an accident and the damage exceeds your state's minimum liability coverage limits, you could end up paying out of pocket for additional expenses.

Whether you select the state minimums or increase your coverage, make sure the limits you set for bodily injury liability coverage and property damage liability coverage are the same for every quote you compare. Bodily injury liability coverage helps cover expenses of another person's physical injury if you are found liable in an accident. Property damage liability coverage helps pay for damages you may cause to another person's property.

3. Choose the same coverages:

To accurately compare car insurances rates, make sure you've selected the same set of required and optional coverages for each quote you get.

Required:

• Liability coverage: May help pay for another person's property damage or medical bills if you cause an accident. 

Required in some states:

• Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage: May help protect you against damages caused by a driver without insurance or not enough insurance. 

• Medical payments coverage: May help pay for medical expenses if you or your passengers are injured in a car accident. 

• Personal injury protection (not available in all states): May help pay for hospital bills, lost income and even child-care services if you're injured in a car accident. 

Typically optional:

• Comprehensive coverage: May help pay for damage to your car not caused by a collision. Coverage may include theft, vandalism or damaged caused by animals. 

• Collision coverage: May help pay to repair your car if it's been damaged or destroyed in a collision with another vehicle or object such as a fence. 

• Rental reimbursement coverage: May help pay for a rental car while your car is being repaired after a covered loss. 

• Towing and labor cost coverage: May help cover services if your car breaks down. Coverage may include jump starts, fixing flat tires or towing. 

Remember that a car insurance policy may help protect your wallet, your vehicle and even offer peace of mind. Contact us for more Information, At GUARDIAN INSURANCE AGENCY located in Fairburn, Lagrange and Norcross, we can help you choose the coverage that's right for your needs.

For more Information contact us: (706) 884-5006 or (770) 969-5666

Please visit us: www.go-guardian.com

5 Ways to keep your car cool this Summer

If you want to enjoy spending time outdoors during the summer months, but the heat and the sun make driving around intolerable, fortunately, there are simple things you can do. From maximizing your air conditioning to taking advantage of a shady spot when parking.

At GUARDIAN INSURANCE AGENCY located in Fairburn, Lagrange and Norcross, we give you five tips you can do to help keep your car cooler during those hot and humid summer days:

1. Sun shades: 

Sun shades are a great investment, because they block the direct rays coming into your vehicle. This keeps the temperature slightly lower, which can help your car cool down more quickly once the vehicle is started.

2. Tinted windows: 

A more expensive, yet constant way to block the sun, is with window tinting. Window tinting is proven to block sunlight (and heat). But before you take your car in to have the windows darkened, make sure you know your state’s laws, as some have restrictions on how much or which windows you can tint. There are additional requirements regarding tint colors, certificates, mirrors, etc., so make certain the tinting is done by an experienced, reputable dealer.

3. Covered parking: 

If you don’t have tinted windows or a sun shade, a helpful alternative may simply be parking in the shade. Find a shady spot or park your car so the sun is hitting the rear window instead of the windshield. This may help keep the steering wheel and front seats slightly cooler.

4. Cool seat covers:

Seat covers specifically designed to make car seats cooler have been around for a long time and most of them are at least somewhat effective. Today there are models that incorporate a fan to circulate air through and around the seat cover. 

5. Air Conditioning:

If your vehicle’s air conditioning isn’t functioning properly or you don’t use it in the most efficient way, it may take longer than you would like for your car to reach a comfortable temperature. To maximize your car’s cooling ability, turn the air on full blast as soon as you start the engine and slightly opening all of your windows until the air inside is cool. This helps to improve cooling efficiency as the hot air (which rises) will be pushed out of the windows as the cool air comes out of the vents. Once you’ve achieved your desired temperature, you should use the car’s air recirculating feature along with the air conditioning to maintain the coldest air.

Remember that a car insurance policy may help protect your wallet, your vehicle and even offer peace of mind. Contact us for more Information, At GUARDIAN INSURANCE AGENCY located in Fairburn, Lagrange and Norcross, we can help you choose the coverage that's right for your needs.

For more Information contact us: (706) 884-5006 or (770) 969-5666

Please visit us: www.go-guardian.com

Tips for lowering your Car Insurance premiums

Saving money is important to most people and there may be more ways to save than we might think.

There are some practical ways for drivers to lower their premiums and it is easier than most people would realize.

At GUARDIAN INSURANCE AGENCY located in Fairburn, Lagrange and Norcross, we give you a list of five things you can do to lower your insurance costs:

1. Compare insurance costs, before buying a car:

Before you buy a new or used car, you should check the insurance costs. Car insurance premiums are based in part on the price of the car, the cost to repair it, its overall safety record and the likelihood of theft. Many insurers offer discounts for features that reduce the risk of injuries or theft. 

2. Ask for higher deductibles:

Deductibles are what you pay before your insurance policy kicks in. By requesting higher deductibles, you can lower your costs substantially. For example, increasing your deductible from $200 to $500 could reduce your collision and comprehensive coverage cost by 15 to 30 percent. Going to a $1,000 deductible can save you 40 percent or more. Before choosing a higher deductible, be sure you have enough money set aside to pay it if you have a claim.

3. Reduce coverage on older cars:

Consider dropping collision and/or comprehensive coverages on older cars. If your car is worth less than 10 times the premium, purchasing the coverage may not be cost effective. Auto dealers and banks can tell you the worth of cars. Review your coverage at renewal time to make sure your insurance needs haven’t changed.

4. Buy your Homeowners and Car coverage from the same Insurer Company:

Many insurers will give you a discounts if you buy two or more types of insurance. You may also get a reduction if you have more than one vehicle insured with the same company. Some insurers reduce the rates for long-time customers. You may save money buying from different insurance companies, compared with a multipolicy discount.

5. Maintain a good credit record:

Establishing a solid credit history can reduce your insurance costs. Most insurers use credit information to price auto insurance policies. Research shows that people who effectively manage their credit have fewer claims. To protect your credit standing, pay your bills on time, don’t obtain more credit than you need and keep your credit balances as low as possible. Check your credit record on a regular basis and have any errors corrected promptly so that your record remains accurate.

Remember that a car insurance policy may help protect your wallet, your vehicle and even offer peace of mind. Contact us for more Information, At GUARDIAN INSURANCE AGENCY located in Fairburn, Lagrange and Norcross, we can help you choose the coverage that's right for your needs.

For more Information contact us: (706) 884-5006 or (770) 969-5666

Please visit us: www.go-guardian.com

Does your Car Insurance cover water damage?

Water could be a risk to your car as can cause all kinds of damage to your vehicle's engine or interior, so it is important to know if your car insurance covers water damage.

Fortunately, comprehensive coverage may help cover water damage to your vehicle, depending on the cause. Comprehensive coverage is generally optional, although your lender may require comprehensive if you have an auto loan.

At GUARDIAN INSURANCE AGENCY located in Fairburn, Lagrange and Norcross, we give you some potential causes of water damage and how your car insurance might help:

1. Flooding:

Depending on the severity of the flood, your vehicle can suffer some major damage, as rising water levels caused by heavy rains may get into your vehicle's engine and interior. Comprehensive coverage typically helps protect your vehicle against flood damage.

2. Hailstorms:

Hailstorms can lead to water damage if hailstones break your windshield or windows, letting rain and hail into your vehicle. If your vehicle sustains water damage during a hailstorm, comprehensive coverage may help pay to repair your vehicle.

3. Leaks after heavy rains:

If your car is damaged in a one-off event like a sudden, heavy rainstorm, comprehensive coverage may help cover the damage to your vehicle. But if water slowly leaks into the car because of poor maintenance and causes damage over time, water damage likely won't be covered.

4. Damage by leaving windows open:

Comprehensive coverage typically covers damages not related to a collision for events that are out of your control. Doesn't cover problems caused by your vehicle being in poor condition. So if your car's windows were left down, or the sunroof was left open, and rain gets in as a result, any water damage caused by the rain is unlikely to be covered.

Remember that a car insurance policy may help protect your wallet, your vehicle and even offer peace of mind. Contact us for more Information, At GUARDIAN INSURANCE AGENCY located in Fairburn, Lagrange and Norcross, we can help you choose the coverage that's right for your needs.

For more Information contact us: (706) 884-5006 or (770) 969-5666

Please visit us: www.go-guardian.com

6 Steps to protect your car in a Hurricane

Hurricanes can make for a stressful time in any vehicle owner's life. Although the best method will always be to evacuate, you may decide to stay at home, but take in mind that having a complete storm safety plan is always better than being caught off-guard.

In order be as safe as possible during hurricane conditions, it is important to keep informed of the progress of a tropical storm, following the recommendations of local and federal officials and knowing the emergency evacuation routes.

When preparing your vehicle for a hurricane, At GUARDIAN INSURANCE AGENCY located in Fairburn, Lagrange and Norcross,  we give you the following tips that will help minimize any potential damage.

1. Consult your car insurance agent:

Consult your car insurance agency about your policy's hurricane coverage, if applicable. You will need to inquire about what is covered, as well as what steps to take in the event that your vehicle is damaged and you need to make a claim.

2. Take Pictures:

It can be prudent to have proof of your car’s condition before disaster strikes, for personal and possible insurance purposes. So, you may want to consider taking pictures of your car’s interior and exterior as you make your hurricane preparations.

3. Check and replenish all fluids:

Check your drive belts for tension and wear, and have them replaced if necessary. Also ensure your tires are properly inflated (this includes your spare tire).

The following fluids typically should be checked: oil, transmission, brake, battery, power steering, radiator coolant, and windshield wiper fluids.

4. Fill your tank:

Before a hurricane hits, be sure to fill your gas tank and any reserve canisters to their full capacity. An important part of disaster preparedness is having a plan to get help after dangerous weather subsides. With a full tank of gas, you’ll be more likely to get to where you need to go without having to make a stop for fuel.

Hurricanes can affect incoming supply routes, making gasoline a very important item. To avoid long lines at the gas station and frustration, you should make sure that you have enough fuel for your vehicle.

5. Prepare an emergency kit for your vehicle:

You should have the following essential items: an automotive toolkit, a pocket knife, extra fuses, road flares, emergency tire sealant, extra quarts of motor oil, power steering fluid and antifreeze, a tire jack, jumper cables, a flashlight, extra batteries, a battery-powered radio, pen and paper, a blanket, a can opener, a first aid kit, and extra reserves of water and food.

6. Park Safely:

Parking your car safely before a hurricane or a tropical storm typically involves protecting it from high winds and water. Be sure to keep your vehicle parked on higher ground, away from any tall or loose structures (such as light poles, stop lights, road signs, or trees) that may fall and cause costly damage. Also remember to apply your emergency brake, if applicable. Park your car in a garage if possible. If you don’t have a garage, consider parking your car close to a building, which can offer at least partial protection from high winds.

Remember that a car insurance policy may help protect your wallet, your vehicle and even offer peace of mind. Contact us for more Information, At GUARDIAN INSURANCE AGENCY located in Fairburn, Lagrange and Norcross, we can help you choose the coverage that's right for your needs.

For more Information contact us: (706) 884-5006 or (770) 969-5666

Please visit us: www.go-guardian.com

3 Factors that can increase your car insurance rates

At some point, you may have noticed that your car insurance rate could rise if your insurance agent finds more information about your driving history or after an at-fault car accident.

At GUARDIAN INSURANCE AGENCY located in Fairburn, Lagrange and Norcross, we give you some reasons why rates could increase after obtaining a quote, after buying your policy or when your policy is renewed.

1.  During the time of the car insurance quote:

The car insurance quote is an insurer's estimate of your final premium that is based primarily on the information you provide. Generally, there are 2 causes by which the final rate can increase: missing and newly discovered information (like unreported accidents or moving violations).

To determine your actual car insurance rate, insurance companies generally access your MVR (Motor Vehicle Report) and CLUE (Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange) reports, among other things. These reports contain information about your driving history and claim history. If the information in these reports is different from what you reported when you received your quote, it could lead to a premium adjustment.

2. After you buy your car insurance policy:

Generally, your rate may increase in the first month or 2 after you buy your policy if you don't submit any required forms or if your insurer finds an undisclosed accident or incident on your MVR.

In some cases, you may be asked to provide proof of prior insurance to certify that you have had continuous coverage for the time you indicated.

In other cases, your state may require you to submit proof of health insurance in order to maintain lower medical coverage limits. 

3. Your premium may increase on renewal:

There are several factors that can lead to a higher premium in your next policy term.

- State rate plans:

Your insurer and your state's department of insurance have agreed on a new rate plan for all drivers in the state.

- New ZIP Code:

Where you live influences your rate, so if you move to an area with a higher theft or accident risk, your renewal premium could reflect this change.

-Accidents:

If you filed an accident claim that warrants a re-rate, your rate is recalculated based on the recent claim.

- Violations:

If you were convicted of a moving violation, this can cause your rate to be recalculated.

Remember that a car insurance policy may help protect your wallet, your vehicle and even offer peace of mind. Contact us for more Information, At GUARDIAN INSURANCE AGENCY located in Fairburn, Lagrange and Norcross, we can help you choose the coverage that's right for your needs.

For more Information contact us: (706) 884-5006 or (770) 969-5666

Please visit us: www.go-guardian.com

What to do after a Car accident

Car accidents are stressful and difficult to handle situations that when happen can leave you many questions at once: Should I call the police? Should I move my car? When should I file a claim?

At GUARDIAN INSURANCE AGENCY  located in Fairburn, Lagrange  and Norcross, we give you some tips that can help guide you through the most important decisions you should make if you have been in an accident:

1. Check yourself for injuries: If you're injured, call 911 or ask someone else to do so. If you're seriously injured, try not to move, and wait for emergency personnel.

2. If you're not too hurt to move, check on the well-being of your passengers: If anyone's injured, get on the phone with emergency services or ask a bystander to call for help.

3. Get to safety if you're able to, either on the side of the road or on a sidewalk: If your car is safe to drive and is causing a hazard where it is, pull it to the side of the road. Otherwise, leave it where it is and get yourself to safety.

4. Wait for help: Turn off your engine, turn on your hazard lights and use road flares to warn other vehicles to slow down.

5. Call the police: Whether an accident is considered a minor fender-bender or a major collision, calling the police is important and in some states, it's legally required.

6. Notify your insurer: You may also want to call your insurance agent while you're at the scene. That way, they can tell you exactly what they will need to process your claim.

7. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver before you leave:

-Full name and contact information

-Insurance company and policy number

-Driver's license and license plate number

-Type, color and model of vehicle

-Location of accident

Remember that a car insurance policy may help protect your wallet, your vehicle and even offer peace of mind. Contact us for more Information, At GUARDIAN INSURANCE AGENCY located in Fairburn, Lagrange and Norcross, we can help you choose the coverage that's right for your needs.

For more Information contact us: (706) 884-5006 or (770) 969-5666

Please visit us: www.go-guardian.com