Just a couple of lectern slappers/foot stompers ...
1. READ THE TECH TIP
2. Make the insurance companies compete for your business. Make them put their quotes in the same terms as each other. If they can't, make them explain.
3. ALWAYS remember that insurance companies ARE NOT IN BUSINESS TO PROTECT *You*. They are in business to make money by selling you more insurance than you need. And that's neither good, nor bad. It's just the reality of the market place. Understand your state's laws and minimums.
4. Loyalty means NOTHING. You've been insured by one company for a bunch of years?? And you think they care *anything* about that??? Wake up, Sparky. They've probably been jacking your rates all these years while blowing sunshine up your skirt about loyalty discounts. Try shopping your policy around sometime. You might be surprised. You *probably* will be surprised at the money you'll save. We've been there and done that for a number of years. I've been with a certain company now for a few years for my vintage/collector vehicle insurance. But I make them compete for it, I don't just hand them my business. I'm friendly about it, but they know I am making them re earn my business.
5. You MUST be up front, open, honest and complete in your dealings with the companies to get good coverage at competitive prices. They know all about you anyway. If you lie or hold back, they will not only know but will not give you the best rates because they can't trust you.
6. If you want cheap(er) insurance .... BE A GOOD DRIVER. This isn't rocket science, gang.
7. Talk to the agents directly. And compare what they tell you. ONLY they will give you the best, accurate info. Anything else from the rest of us is pure anecdote. YOUR individual case will vary from any of the rest of us.
Only YOU can do *your* homework. And homework is needed to get good, adequate coverage. There are no short cuts to this. You are your own best advocate. Is this a lot of work? YES!!! But is is worth it.
And be bold. No need to be apologetic or hesitant. They will take you for a ride if you let them. Be the lion, not the sheep.
And before I forget to mention it ...
8. READ THE TECH TIP.
John
