What Information Does an Auto Insurance Company Need?

The insurance companies or agents you approach for an auto insurance quote will all ask roughly the same questions. Before starting to gather your quotes, whether online, by telephone or in person, it is a good idea to get together all the relevant documents providing the information you will need. An existing auto policy and your vehicle registration document will be a great help.

Usually one of the first things they will want to know is what make and model of car(s) you own. You will also be asked how many people will be driving the vehicle, and you will have to know their ages and their driving records.

You will be asked where you live and how long you have lived there and probably whether the vehicle(s) will be garaged at that address. You can expect to be asked approximately how many miles you drive in a year, whether you drive for work or for pleasure, and what type of insurance cover you are seeking.

Before actually approaching companies for quotations, you will need to decide what coverage you do need, and where you can make compromises. Deductibles are amounts you will pay before making a claim. This is a valuable method for reducing your premium. For example, if you have a claim of $500, but your deductible is $250, then you will pay the first $250 yourself, and claim for the rest from the auto policy.

More detailed information on your vehicle will then be required, including the VIN number, and any safety devices such as air bags, anti-lock brakes or anti-theft devices. It is handy to refer to your current policy which will have all the relevant information listed.

You should mention when talking about other drivers, those who have completed safe-driving courses, or if any students on the policy are receiving good grades. Both of these may qualify for auto policy discounts.

Once the agent has collected all the details required, he or she will then give you a quote for a premium, based upon the information which you have provided.