If you are a new driver, then you have a lot of things to think about. However, this doesn't mean you want to put off dealing with the issue of auto insurance. In fact, when it comes to driving, making sure you have car insurance is one of the most important things you need to tend to before you get behind the wheel of your car. Read this short guide on car insurance to make sure you are well-informed on some important facts about insurance as well as other things that you are going to want to know about the topic.
Car insurance is required by law
Not only is making sure you have car insurance the responsible thing to do, but it will also protect you and your assets if you end up in an accident or you have other issues related to your car. Plus, having car insurance is a legal requirement. The amount of car insurance you must carry according to the law can vary from state to state. You need to make sure you are carrying at least the legal minimum for the state you live in and have the car registered in.
Full coverage is a good idea
If you still owe on your car, then it will be required for you to carry full coverage on the car until you own it outright. However, once you own the car outright, it will be up to you to decide if you still want to carry full coverage insurance. While it does cost more, it is a very good idea to have it. Full coverage insurance makes sure your car's damages will also be covered if you are in an accident. Also, you will be covered if something else happens, like if the car is stolen. Without full coverage, you would be responsible for paying for your own repairs or for the full replacement of your car.
You can lower your premium with discounts
There are many discounts available to lower your insurance rates. When something lowers the risk of the insurance company needing to pay out, they pass the savings on to you. So, if you keep the car in a garage, then let the insurance company know this. Most offer discounts for garaged vehicles because there are fewer chances of them being vandalized or stolen. Some of the other types of discounts include ones for benign a good driver, ones for driving fewer miles than the average person, and ones for the car having an anti-theft alarm system installed.