5 Commonly Asked Questions About Auto Insurance

Are you thinking about getting your car insured? Auto insurance is coverage that helps cover the damages and costs incurred in an accident, collision, or non-collision related. It also helps in claims when you are involved in an accident that causes physical injury to others. The following are some of the commonly asked questions about auto insurance. If you have any other questions or want to purchase an auto insurance policy in Hershey, PA, you can trust Options Insurance Agency for sound advice.

What coverage do I need?

In most states, car owners are required to have minimum liability coverage, but this may not be enough to cover the losses in case of an accident. As such, you need additional insurance coverage in case you have valuable personal assets and comprehensive cover for non- collision-related damages.

Can I minimize my car insurance costs?

Different factors affect the premium costs of a car insurance policy. However, you can reduce these premiums by installing safety features in your automobile and paying a higher deductible fee.

Do I qualify for insurance discounts?

Depending on your occupational group and your state of residence, you may be qualified for car insurance discounts. You also qualify for discounts if you have a low credit score and a clean driving record. Consult with your insurance provider to determine which discounts you are eligible for. 

What does car insurance cover?

Different categories of car insurance cover unique risk aspects. Liability coverage is for damages related to at-fault accidents and pays for property damage, repairs, and medical costs from injuries sustained as well as legal fees. There are additional optional coverages like collision, comprehensive, uninsured, and underinsured motorist coverages.

Is auto insurance mandatory?

Every state in the United States has a legal requirement that all car owners insure their cars with minimum liability coverage. However, insurance laws and regulations vary from state to state, so visit your local insurer for an auto liability policy.

If you have questions about auto insurance, Options Insurance Agency serving Hershey, PA, can help give some clarity and guide on choosing the most suitable coverage for you.

Tips For New Drivers

One of the major milestones in any young adult’s life is getting their driver’s license. Although it’s an exciting time, driving for the first time does come with new responsibilities. This helpful guide can help the newest drivers in Hershey, PA stay safe on the road, along with making sure they have the answers needed for auto insurance coverage from our experts at Options Insurance Agency. 

How New Drivers Should Prepare 

One of the first things you need to do as a  new driver is to get ready for the road test. It takes a while for younger drivers to become comfortable behind the wheel, so much practice is necessary.  It’s always recommended to practice with a responsible adult or to take a driving course for safety. The most important thing as parents is to allow them to get the confidence they need and take things slow and steady. Modern vehicles are also equipped with driver-assisted technology and include plenty of safety features. You’ll also want to spend time explaining to your teen driver how this assistive tech can help promote good driving habits. Here are a few other things to always remind new drivers while on the road.

  • Obey traffic rules and slow down
  • Always buckle up
  • Avoid all distractions ( texting and driving, eating, or loud music)
  • Don’t drive in bad weather conditions. 

Getting An Auto Insurance Policy 

Options Insurance Agency can help the newest drivers get the right insurance policy. We understand that getting the proper coverage can be a source of concern, and our experts have your best interest in mind. If you have a new driver in Hershey, PA, our agency serves the area with the highest level of integrity. So give us a call today to find out more information about an auto insurance policy.

Avoiding Driving Distractions

We live in a busy world where everyone is hustling and bustling to get through the day. With everyone so preoccupied with so many things, it is easy to become distracted when driving, especially when you add the added distraction that comes with staying connected via online apps and other communication methods. 

With so many distractions while behind the wheel, drivers in Hershey, PA, need to take extra precautions when hitting the road. Our experts at Options Insurance Agency can help get you the coverage you need to keep you protected while driving. 

Hands-Free Calls

Using the Bluetooth technology in your vehicle, connect your cell phone, so you can accept and make calls without needing to pick up your phone. 

Dictate Texts

Some devices allow you to dictate who you send a text message to and what you want to say. Additionally, some devices recite text messages, so you do not have to look at your phone. 

Social Media

Do not be tempted to look at any of your social media apps while driving. Whatever you want to read can wait until you are somewhere else besides driving in the car. 

Navigation Guides

When needing assistance finding a location, it is best to input the address before leaving or pull over to do it. Additionally, some apps offer traffic updates, gas prices notifications, and more. Use the audio for these options and limit the number of glances you make to look at the phone. 

Though we cannot help you with the driving distractions in Hershey, PA, we can help get you the insurance coverage you need to stay protected while on the road. Call our agents at Options Insurance Agency to learn more about the different auto insurance options available. 

Add-ons to consider for your auto insurance

When you are shopping for auto insurance in Pennsylvania, you may want to understand the different auto insurance options available for better coverage. When you partner with an agent like Options Insurance Agency located in Hershey, PA, we recommend the minimum coverage and introduce you to add-ons you can consider for your auto insurance for optimal coverage. 

Want to find out add-ons you can consider for your auto insurance? Please keep on scrolling.

Road assistance

While car ownership introduces you to a limitless world of possibilities, mishaps are bound to happen. For instance, breakdowns are part and parcel of car ownership. And boy, you don’t want it to happen when you don’t have road assistance coverage.

This add-on provides the below services whenever your car stalls on the highway or any other location.

  • Jump-starting
  • Gas delivery
  • Puncture repair
  • Roadside mechanical repair
  • Towing

Zero depreciation cover

When you have this cover, and your car needs replacement or part replacement, your insurance will cover full costs without considering the depreciation factor.

Engine protection

The engine serves a pivotal role in powering your vehicle. Without it, your car is rendered useless. In light of this, you can safeguard your engine with this protection rider, especially if you live in areas susceptible to waterlogging. 

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

Regardless of how carefully you drive, accidents do happen even when you are not at fault. In such instances, PIP comes in handy, especially for drivers with little or no health insurance. In case of an accident, PIP covers medical costs, including surgery costs and ambulance fees, regardless of who was at fault. 

Auto insurance in Hershey, PA

Your car is a precious asset to you. As such, you need to purchase add-ons that suit your unique circumstances. For Pennsylvania residents, you can relax knowing that your auto insurance needs are well-taken care of by Options Insurance Agency situated in Hershey, PA. Contact us today whether renewing or shopping for new auto insurance.

What’s PA’s State Minimum for Auto Insurance?

Pennsylvania drivers are required to carry auto insurance that meets certain minimum coverage levels. These areas include bodily injury liability coverage, property damage liability coverage, and uninsured motorist coverage. Pennsylvania drivers can carry more than the minimum coverage amounts. However, they must carry at least the minimum in order to legally drive in the state. 

Pennsylvania Law

Pennsylvania drivers will face strong consequences if they don’t adhere to the auto insurance requirements in the state of Pennsylvania. Liability auto insurance is a requirement in the state. If you don’t carry liability auto insurance you face the possibility of a $300 fine and the suspension of your driver’s license for driving uninsured. Your vehicle registration can also be suspended for three months and a three-month suspension of your driver’s license. These are the penalties that you face if Penn DOT discovers that you drove without the required insurance. 

Pennsylvania State Minimums for Auto Insurance

Our team at the Options Insurance Agency is committed to helping Hershey, PA residents understand what’s required to legally drive in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania residents must purchase $15,000 per person, $30,000 per accident for bodily injury liability coverage. State residents must also carry $5,000 in property damage liability coverage. Residents must also carry $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident in uninsured motorist coverage. Our team at the Options Insurance Agency wants PA drivers to understand what is required to legally operate a car within the state. We take the time to explain everything that’s required by state law to drive.

Liability auto insurance is required by law. However, liability insurance coverage levels must meet the state minimums. We’re here to answer any questions drivers may have about what’s required and what’s not required. GIve us a call. We’re here to guide you through understanding state laws and liability coverage minimums. 

How Much Auto Insurance Do I Need?

In order to register your car and drive it on public roads in Hershey, PA, you need auto insurance. But how much do you need? According to the state, there is a minimum amount you must purchase. However, is this really enough? It’s enough to get your wheels on the road but if something were to happen, even if it’s not your fault, will the minimum cover you? The answer could very well be no, according to Options Insurance Agency. 

There are three types of drivers on Hershey, PA roads: the insured, the underinsured, and the uninsured (yes, they exist and drive illegally).

When you’re in an auto accident, you and the other driver will fit into one of these three categories. If either of you are uninsured, you’ll face hefty fines and maybe even lose your privilege to drive. You’ll also have to pick up the entire bill for any damages or injuries. This puts your assets and savings at risk. The same goes for someone who is underinsured. You can get into a no-fault accident with an underinsured driver only to discover that your bills are going unpaid because their claim ran out. This is when your insurance kicks in if you’ve bought enough in your policy. You’ll need maximum coverage and in some cases umbrella insurance to cover the costs the at-fault driver can’t pay.

If you were to have an accident that’s not your fault, you’d want the other driver to be insured to the maximum, wouldn’t you? On the other hand, if you’re in an accident and it’s your fault, you’ll also want maximum to cover any injuries to loved ones or the other party. It just makes sense.

To learn more about getting the maximum benefits with your auto insurance policy, contact Options Insurance Agency today. 

Why should I invest in an auto insurance policy in Hershey?

The Hershey, PA area can be a great place to work and live. If you are going to live in this area of the state, you will want to ensure that you are properly insuring all of your assets. One type of asset that will need to be insured is your vehicle. There are several reasons that you should invest in an auto insurance policy.

Insurance Gives Important Coverage

One reason that you are going to need to have auto insurance is that it will give you important insurance coverage. A full auto insurance policy is going to give you liability protection as well as collision and comprehensive coverage. This will ensure that you are protected if you are at fault in an accident or your vehicle is damaged.

Insurance is Required

Beyond providing you with important coverage, auto insurance is also required for vehicle owners to carry. If you have a car loan, you will likely be required to carry a full policy with collision and comprehensive coverage. Further, anyone that intends to drive their car on a public road will be required to carry liability insurance. 

There are many advantages that come when you get an auto insurance policy. Since this is such an important form of insurance to get, those that are in the Hershey, PA area should make sure that they get the right form of insurance in place. The team at the Options Insurance Agency can provide you with all of the guidance and support that you need to pick a new policy. If you do call Options Insurance Agency, the team will be able to answer all of your questions to make sure you are properly protected and get into a great policy. 

Important things to know when shopping for auto insurance

Before you hit the road in a new car, you need to make sure that your precious possession is protected. Therefore, one of the first things you need to do is to get auto insurance. However, there are certain things you should ponder before you start paying annual premiums to your insurance company.

Know Exactly What Your Policy Will Cover

While a standard policy covers accidental damage and theft, there are other things that your policy will not cover. Make sure that you know everything about your coverage before signing an agreement with an insurance company. 

Lying is Too Risky

Many car owners decide to provide an insurance company with made-up and false information about themselves, the vehicle, and driving history to save some money. However, it is too risky. If you get caught, you can face severe punishment. You can either face higher rates or be plunged out from the insurance plan at all. 

Certain Factors Have An Impact On Your Insurance Costs

Among those factors are your age, gender, and location. Suppose you are a young driver (25 years and younger), than you will pay more for your insurance than an older person. That is because younger drivers are more likely to get involved in car accidents and receive citations. The same goes for the gender – male drivers are statistically at a higher risk of getting into a car accident. 

Having proper auto insurance is the easiest and the best way to protect your vehicle. Moreover, it is also a requirement in Pennsylvania. Now, when you know some critical things about auto insurance, it is time to find the perfect coverage. Options Insurance Agency, serving Hershey, PA, is ready to help you to get the policy you need. Do not hesitate to contact our agency in Hershey, PA today to get all your questions answered.

Which lifestyle changes can impact my auto insurance policy?

Some changes in life are inevitable, and they certainly won’t stop once you buy auto insurance. Getting married, moving into a new house, getting divorced, buying your dream car, relocating to Hershey, PA, or even getting involved in an accident, so much can change between the time of your auto insurance policy purchase and the date of renewal.

Why lifestyle changes?

While some of these lifestyle changes are only worth mentioning to your family and friends, it is vital to report significant lifestyle changes to your insurance provider to avoid huge penalties. Most lifestyle changes are likely to change your insurance premiums by either lowering or raising them. Different insurance companies, including Options Insurance Agency, have different ways of determining what a policyholder should pay. 

It is not a one-size-fits-all

Auto insurance is a requirement by law. That means that the government has regulated the rates to fit the budget of any average American. However, that does not mean that the price is the same for all of us. You may not know this, but your insurance premiums are highly affected by very many factors. Some of these factors are direct, while others are not. Some can also be controlled while others cannot. 

So, which of these lifestyle factors should you report to your auto insurance provider immediately after they happen? 

  • When you move out of your primary home and change your address
  • When you change how you use the vehicle, like turning it from a personal car to a commercial vehicle for a business like Uber
  • When multiple people have to drive the vehicle
  • When you hire or change the driver of the insured vehicle
  • When you need to remove or add vehicles in your policy
  • When transferring your title or selling the car
  • When your driver gets a license suspension

While there are no set regulations on what you should notify your insurer, knowing what to report and what not to, is a significant step in keeping your policy updated. To learn more about auto insurance, visit us Options Insurance Agency in Hershey, PA today!

Why carry comprehensive and collision insurance on your car

In the state of Pennsylvania, drivers are required to carry liability insurance, but any insurance beyond that is optional. While it is vital to protect other drivers, who is going to protect you and your vehicle if you are the responsible driver in an accident or if you are the victim of a hit and run? The responsibility falls on you, and our agents at Options Insurance Agency in Hershey, PA are ready to sit down with you to discuss the auto insurance options available.

To protect yourself in the event of an accident where you are at fault, you need to carry collision insurance. Collision insurance has a deductible, but after that is met the insurance company will pay to repair or replace your damaged car up to the blue book value. If your vehicle has little value or you have a lot of money lying around, you may feel that you can pay for the damage yourself, and of course, that is fine, but for the average person, this is essential coverage. 

Comprehensive insurance is also known as non-collision coverage. It covers a lot of other things that can happen to your car that don’t include a collision with another vehicle. It covers some weather events, including floods, which no other type of insurance covers, and wind damage. It also covers your car from theft and vandalism. 

If you are looking for a new auto insurance policy or you are thinking about a change, why not give us a call at Options Insurance Agency. We serve the greater Hershey, PA area, and as an independent agency, we have lots of choices to offer you both in policy options and carriers. We are sure we can find one that is a good fit for you.