What Kind of Auto Coverage Do You Really Need?

Auto insurance is designed to safeguard you against mishaps on the road. At Commerce Insurance Agency, we can help you determine what kind of auto insurance protection you need. Our auto policies offer several coverage options for Georgia drivers of all ages and lifestyles: liability coverage, personal injury protection (PIP), collision, comprehensive, and uninsured/underinsured (UM) insurance. 

Required Auto Insurance Coverage in Georgia

Georgia requires that drivers have specific auto insurance coverage types in the form of liability and PIP. If you’re found at fault for an accident that results in injuries or property damage to others, liability insurance helps cover these costs. Georgia requires that you have minimum liability coverage, but you may want to purchase more to protect you against serious accidents you may cause.

PIP coverage helps cover your medical expenses if you’re hurt in an accident. Although it isn’t required, uninsured motorist insurance is recommended. It provides extra medical protection for you and your passengers if you’re hit by someone who doesn’t have sufficient insurance to cover your damages.

Optional Auto Coverage

If you’re a new driver or own an expensive vehicle, collision and comprehensive coverage offer essential protection for your investment, even though this coverage isn’t mandatory by law. Collision covers damage to your vehicle from crashes. Comprehensive helps pay for your vehicle repairs if it’s damaged by a falling object, vandalism, or inclement weather. It also pays for your vehicle’s market value if it’s stolen, saving you thousands of dollars in getting your car replaced. If you’ve taken out a new car loan, your lender may require that you purchase collision and comprehensive coverage to protect their monetary investment.

To learn more about auto insurance in Georgia or for help in selecting the policy you need, contact Commerce Insurance Agency in Commerce, GA today.  

Can Your Vehicle Type Affect How Much You Pay for Auto Insurance?

To an extent, insurance rates are based on the type of vehicle you drive because insurance companies use historical trends to determine how likely an accident will occur. As an example, a sports car is likely to have a higher insurance rate than a four-door sedan because the insurance company will have to pay a higher fee to repair the vehicle. Factors including how likely it is that a vehicle is speeding, the cost of repairs, and how likely your vehicle will damage another car in an accident are all included in determining a policy premium. 

In addition to the type of vehicle impacting your auto insurance premium, so too can the features. When you purchase a vehicle with additional options like a navigation system and audio upgrades, it causes the vehicle’s price to increase. Consequently, it isn’t surprising that the more expensive the vehicle and the more upgrades it has, its costlier will be to insure. With that said, purchasing a car with a strong track record for safety and the latest safety features can equate to a lesser premium. 

While it is true that the type of vehicle you drive can impact your insurance premium both positively and negatively, the difference should not deter you from driving your dream car. Ultimately, shopping for the best rate with a professional company like Commerce Insurance Agency can ensure that you aren’t paying more than you need to. Conveniently located in Commerce, GA, the Commerce Insurance Agency prides itself on delivering exceptional service, so give us a call today to schedule a no-obligation consultation.