How to Buy Auto Insurance

• The best insurance consumer is an educated consumer. Research what coverages are available and what liability limits and deductibles fit your needs. Californiaautoinsurance.net and Tegner-Miller Insurance Brokers can be valuable resources in helping you determine what policy is right for you. Remember that price should not necessarily be the main driving factor in your insurance decisions.
• There are some companies that will offer low prices, but at the expense of other important features such as claims service, training and availability of representatives and policies that aren’t covered by state guaranty funds. We have done extensive research and have built relationships with the most reputable and stable auto insurance carriers. All of the insurance carriers that we represent are licensed to do business in California and policyholders of licensed companies are protected by the California Insurance Guaranty Fund.
• Before purchasing a policy, it is sometimes prudent to look into the company’s claim history and public complaint record. Although we have done this research for you, the California Department of Insurance publishes a complaint study that can help you find a service-oriented company.
• Depending on your financial situation, you may want to consider higher deductibles. By requesting a higher deductible on your collision and comprehensive coverage, you can lower your costs for those coverages. However, you will also incur greater out-of-pocket expenses should you need to have a claim processed. Ask us for advice on which deductibles are right for you.
• Sometimes it makes better fiscal sense to drop collision and/or comprehensive coverage on older cars. It may not be cost effective to have collision or comprehensive coverages on cars worth less than $1,000 because any claim you make would not substantially exceed annual costs of deductible and premium amounts.
• Some companies offer convenient "fringe" coverages, such as towing services or rental vehicle reimbursements. These can prove to be valuable services, should you need them. Review these changes to consider their benefits relative to the additional costs.
• Before deciding on an insurance company, you should comparison shop. Often prices for the same coverages may vary greatly. We have a wide selection of diverse companies from which you can choose the coverage that best fits your needs and budget.
• Be sure to familiarize yourself with all coverages you are purchasing. When you purchase a policy from us, we will go over each part of your policy and explain how each coverage applies. Don’t wait until after an accident to become familiar with your policy.