I’m buying my first car soon, and insurance is the part I don’t get. I keep seeing people say “shop around,” but how do you do that when you don’t have a VIN yet, and you’re still deciding between a few cars?Do you just pick a couple of models you’re considering and run quotes on those, or is there a better way to estimate what you’ll actually pay? Also, what should a new driver focus on first: limits vs deductibles vs extras like roadside?If it matters, I tried Save Max Auto to get a rough idea while I’m still shopping, but I’m not sure what info I should trust until I actually buy the car.
First-time car buyer and totally lost on insurance
byu/Snoo99968 inInsurance
Posted by Snoo99968
4 Comments
Usually you can get the VIN of a vehicle you are trying to buy. Whether it is through a dealer or person, that feels like a reasonable thing to ask for.
You are doing it right by asking questions first. Yes, get a couple of vins and quote with a local agent. They can explain all of the coverages for you. The deductibles are what you will be comfortable paying out of pocket for. I would say the average used to be $500 but Ive seen $1k more and more now. For liability, try to go with at least 100/300 but do what works best for you.
Good luck! 😊
Thats basically it yes, just shop around for insurance, just with the year make and model, it can be done yes but of course it won’t be 100% accurate, the type of coverage ? Mainly focus on good liability limits, comprehensive/ collision ( the deductible amount ? Just think if something happens how much would you like to pay out of pocket )and uninsured/underinsured bodily injury ( with that you will cover other people, yourself and your vehicle) then you can focus on all the other extra stuff like roadside / rental etc
Me personally I get the vehicle and then get/ worry about the insurance, I mostly worry about the vehicle I am getting haha but I do know some people like to have everything strictly planned and if insurance is hight they don’t get the vehicle ( kinda sad imo )
If you don’t know what you’re doing, I strongly suggest you sit down with an independent agent. Yes, you can just give them year/make/model (without a VIN). You don’t have to do this regularly but you should do it at least once. It doesn’t cost you anything, you’re not obligated to purchase anything, they’ll explain the difference in coverages and limits/deductibles then shop it around and find you the best rate.
DO NOT purchase auto insurance from the dealership or on the recommendation of a salesman.
If you don’t have an independent agent, you can search for one near you at http://www.trustedchoice.com