Auto insurance is just another bill to pay, and if you don’t have much spare cash, you might be tempted to skip paying for a new insurance policy. Of course, that’s your prerogative, but US drivers in all states must prove they are able to pay for damages in the event of an accident.
Fortunately, finding the right auto insurance policy is easy. Go online and do some auto insurance research. Get a few quotes and choose the most suitable policy. You can even pay monthly if it’s easier.
Here are 10 reasons why auto insurance is more than just another bill to pay.
It’s a Legal Requirement
Different states have different legal requirements, but auto insurance is the most convenient method for staying legal on the road. Without some form of car insurance, you are not road legal, which could have ramifications if you are stopped by traffic cops or caught up in an auto accident.
Accidental Damage
Accidents happen. The more time you spend driving on our nation’s roads, the more likely you are to be involved in some kind of accident. Auto insurance protects you from damage caused by a collision with another driver or stationery object, even if the accident was your fault.
Natural Disasters
Strong winds, hail storms, and other natural disasters sometimes cause damage to vehicles. Could you afford to repair the damage to your car if a tree fell down on top of it? Whatever Mother Nature decides to throw at your car, your auto insurance provider will be happy to pick up the pieces.
Theft
Prestige cars are always targets for thieves, but even an older vehicle is not immune to an opportunist car thief, especially if that person needs a ride home. Auto insurance ensures you can replace your pride and joy if the worst happens and it disappears in 60 seconds while you pick up some beer from the 7/11 store. In fact, if you own a desirable car, you would be insane to drive it without auto insurance!
Protection from Third-Party Costs
High medical costs are one of the reasons why car insurance is now mandatory in many countries around the world. People seriously injured in car accidents are likely to sue the person responsible for their woes. Without insurance, a lawsuit could bankrupt you. Car insurance companies offer legal protection as part of the cover. They will also help you deal with any legal problems if you are involved in an accident.
Protect Your Passengers
You have a duty of care to your passengers. Auto insurance will cover their medical and other expenses if they are involved in an accident while they are passengers in your car. Could you live with the guilt if one of your passengers was left disabled in a car accident caused by your driving and you were not insured at the time?
Quick Repairs
Without auto insurance, it could take months before you can afford the cost of repairs following an accident. Most insurers will organize repairs very quickly and some even provide a courtesy car so you don’t have to be without transport.
You Need a Car
Many of us can’t live without a vehicle. We use our car to commute to work, take the kids to school, and visit elderly relatives. If your car is stolen or badly damaged in an accident, have you given any thought to how you would cope without it? As long as your vehicle is insured, you don’t need to panic. Your auto insurance company will pay for repairs and provide a temporary vehicle so you are not stuck at home.
More than anything else, auto insurance offers drivers and vehicle owners’ peace of mind. With a suitable auto insurance policy in place, you don’t need to worry about the costs if you are involved in an accident or somebody steals your car.
