NJ Car Insurance Consumer Resources Help
Do you have the magical proof of continuous coverage? Whether or not you carried NJ car insurance coverage continuously over the past several years will affect your ability to get a NJ voluntary car insurance policy now. That's because the insurance industry assumes is that you've either been driving without coverage (that is real bad!!) or had your policy canceled by the previous insurance company (not too good either!!). In fact if you were canceled for not paying your premium that was expected by your NJ insurance company you will have to go through the NJPAIP (New Jersey Personal Automobile Insurance Plan). This is also known as the NJ high risk or NJ assigned risk car insurance program. If this is the case and or you have more than 7 points go to www.njpaip.com for help and quotes.
NJ Car Insurance Rate Determination
Where you live or, more precisely, where you keep your car at night has a bearing on your chances of having an accident or becoming a victim of theft or vandalism. That's why a vehicle owner in Newark NJ, pays a higher rate than the owner of an identical vehicle in Cape May, NJ.
Other factors affecting insurance territory rates include time and efficiency of police response and law enforcement, local road and traffic conditions and the quality of local medical services. Insurers even factor in the litigation rates in a given area, how many lawsuits are filed, go to trial, are settled out of court, and for how much money.
What Steps can I take to control my Car Insurance Rates in New Jersey
NJ Car Insurance companies often discount their rates in order to encourage good driving practices and the use of safety and security precautions. Depending on the insurance company, you can often lower your rates from 5 to 55 percent. Sometimes the investment you make in your vehicle is worth the discount, and sometimes it's simply worth some peace of mind. For example, the purchase of anti-lock brakes merits a discount from nearly every insurer, but the discount probably will not pay for the brakes which cost several hundred dollars during the normal life of your vehicle. Anti-lock brakes are touted, nonetheless, as a life-saving feature and deserves serious consideration when safety is a top priority..
Safety Features Anti-lock brakes, air bags and passive restraint systems i.e., automatic seat belts.
Defensive Driving Clean violation record, driver's education courses for teenagers and defensive driving or accident prevention courses for adults insurance discounts for the latter are required in some states.
Security Systems Alarms, electronic locks, VIN etching and automotive disabling devices.
Changing The Driving Habits Try commuting by public transit, using a company vehicle for work-related travel and car-pooling.
Formal Agreements Not to Drink and Drive The availability of a discount for signing such an agreement varies among insurers, however is a powerful idea that works.
Buying NJ Home Owners and NJ Car Insurance Policies from the Same Company. If you own a home and an automobile and you are insured by two different companies, check into the cost of carrying both policies by one insurer. Your NJ insurance agent or producer can give you guidance as to which insurers offer discounts. This will always offer your the best buy, so put it in your corner when shopping for rates
You may also lower your NJ Car Insurance rates by requesting higher deductibles, which is the amount of money you pay out of pocket before you make a claim. Increasing your deductibles on collision and comprehensive coverage from $500 to $750, or even $1,000, will bring your rates down. Moreover, you may not need collision and comprehensive coverage if you drive an older car. Ask your agent or direct writing customer service professional which discounts are available to you.
The more people you allow to drive your vehicle on a regular basis, the greater the chances of your vehicle being in an accident. Teenagers are especially expensive to insure because they are the least experienced drivers. A driver's-ed course can help ease the burden of insurance costs since it teaches your teenager defensive driving techniques. If your child's high school does not offer drivers education, try to find one offered by another school or a private firm in the area. After all, the cost of driver's-ed could be cheaper than the extra cost of your insurance. Many insurers offer "good student" discounts as well. An adult's driving experience can also affect your rates significantly. Don't assume that every adult you know has been driving since age 16 or 17 or is a competent driver with a clean driving or insurance record. Again, taking a defensive driving course is a good way for adults to prove they are also responsible drivers, thus lowering their risk and their insurance premium rates. Hopefully armed with this information you will be able to get your best buy on NJ Car Insurance.