You know that you need to have insurance coverage for your personal vehicle - liability, collision and comprehensive, personal injury protection, and uninsured motorists’ coverage.  Did you know that you may need the same kind of insurance coverage for the vehicle you use in your business?

While there are similarities between the two, a commercial auto insurance policy differs from a personal auto insurance policy in many important ways.  Be sure to ask your auto insurance agency to explain all the technical details and your coverage options.

Additionally, check with your auto insurance agency to ensure you have sufficient auto liability coverage.  In the state of California, for example, commercial auto insurance is important for businesses to have on any vehicle used to transport employees.  Without such coverage, should an accident should occur, you could find that not only your business assets but also your personal assets are at serious risk.

Commercial auto insurance in California can cover the following types of vehicles:

• Trucks
• Vans
• Cars
• SUVs
• Heavy trucks and trailers
• Dump trucks
• Box trucks

To learn more, contact your auto insurance company to find out if you need a commercial auto insurance policy for your vehicle.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

 Once you’ve done your research and have found an auto insurance company that you feel is right for you, you’ve likely reached the point where you want to speak to a company representative.  What are some of the best ways of getting in touch with an auto insurance agency?  Here are some tips to help you find an agency in your area.

• Call the company directly.  For example, at the State of California’s Department of Insurance website, the contact information for a number of auto insurance companies is provided on their “Toll Free Numbers” page.  Additionally, your Yellow Pages can also provide you with contact information for local agencies and/or brokerages.

• Check the company’s website.  Just as in the example above, the Internet can offer many ways to access information.  Check the website of the auto insurance company you are interested in for local agency and/or broker contacts.

• Check with an agency or brokerage association.  There are a large number of  associations across the United States.  Either the Internet or your Yellow Pages can help you find an agency or broker association who can help you locate a local auto insurance broker or agency.

Finding an auto insurance company doesn’t end with speaking to one over the telephone.  It is very important to check their license status before you make a final decision.  You can use either the representative’s name or insurance license number to find out their licensing history - this is especially easy with the California Department of Insurance.  Their website features a way in which you can perform a license status inquiry.  You can get an agency or broker’s insurance license number from the broker or agency’s business card and do a search by that number.

By doing your comparison research before hand, finding out information on an auto insurance agency or broker using the Internet, and in speaking with a representative over the telephone, you can help to ensure that you find the right auto insurance specialist for you.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

 On August 28th, California Insurance Commissioner, Steve Poizner laid out the groundwork for greener auto insurance options. The new greener options also may reduce premiums. Insurance Commissioner Poizner unveiled last week his Pay as you drive, green insurance option. The ultimate goal of this plan is to reduce co2 emissions and reduce premiums.

Poizner hopes this move will have a positive impact on the environment. The plan envisions that people will start driving less with the immediate goal of saving money, but at the same time putting less co2 in the air from automobile emissions. As a result, the air will become cleaner and less polluted from vehicles. A study conducted by the Environmental Defense Fund estimated that if 30% of Californians participate in this new voluntary coverage, the state of California could avoid 55 million tons of CO2 between 2009 and 2020. That is the equivalent of taking 10 million cars off of the road!

In addition to the positive effects on the environment, the new plan will have a positive impact on Californian’s wallets. One hope is that insurance premiums will go down. Since the new plan calls for miles driven to account for more of the premium base, the hope is that people will start driving less. And as a result of the decreased driving, estimates show that Californians can save approximately $40 billion in vehicle related expenses, including gas, maintenance and repairs.

To participate in the program, drivers will have to verify their actual odometer reading. Drivers will be able to do this through automotive repair/service records or a technical device used to track mileage. While the pay as you drive program is still in the planning stage, contact your auto insurance company for ways to save money right now.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

The state of California requires every vehicle to be insured with a minimum of bodily injury and property damage coverage. These minimums are set to protect the citizens of California from an injury or loss of property resulting from an automobile accident.

The minimum bodily injury liability that a Californian driver may take out is $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident.  The minimum for property damage liability is  $5,000. While it is recommended to purchase as much coverage as you can afford, you can drive with just having these minimums. The State wide minimum requirements are more commonly referred to as 15/30/5 coverage.

The state of California operates under a tort system. By definition, tort is an injury to another person or to property which is compensable under law. A tort state is the opposite of a “No-fault” state. In a tort state one party must be designated to be at fault before one can receive compensation for damages, although fault can be shared. If you are travelling outside of California, make sure to check out the laws of the state you are travelling to as the laws differ from state to state.

Contact your local AIS office to discuss the California insurance laws and to find the best rate on your auto insurance policy.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

 Most auto policies cover the insured, any additional drivers listed and any occupants in the vehicle. In most cases your coverages are applicable to all occupants in the vehicle at the time of an accident (although liability coverage is not designed to cover injury to you or other listed drivers). But what if you are not driving the car at the time of the loss?

This is a common question and the answer depends on who’s driving. In most cases, the insurance follows the vehicle, not the driver. So if your vehicle is involved in an accident and you are not driving, your coverage will still apply. It is possible that your state’s law or insurance company’s policy may differ, so be sure to check.

In most cases, it is ok for you to loan your car to a visiting friend or family member and your coverage will still apply. The only time you may be denied coverage is if you did not grant the driver permission to use your vehicle. In this case you would have to file a theft claim and proceed in that manner if you wish to recover the damages.

If the driver of your vehicle lives with you, whether it is a family member or a friend, they will have to either be excluded or included on your policy. Specifically, any household members over the legal driving age must be one of the prior. Anyone who becomes a household resident during the policy term must also be added or excluded. If you decide to exclude them, and they’re involved in any accidents while driving your vehicle, the claim will automatically be denied.

Be sure to check your state’s laws and your insurance company’s policy to avoid any potential conflicts.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

More than likely you have experienced some sort of car trouble. Maybe it was a dead battery, a flat tire or maybe you locked your keys in the car. We’ve all been there and know that sometimes a little help is all you need. That help comes in the form of Roadside Assistance. Roadside assistance is an optional coverage that is available through your insurance company.

What does it cover?

Towing: If your vehicle needs to be towed in order to be repaired, roadside assistance will take care of that. The distance to be towed may vary for each insurance company, but most will usually tow your vehicle to a repair facility within 15 miles of your location. If you are in a remote area, they will usually tow you to the nearest repair center, no matter how far it is.

Flat-tire: If you are stuck on the side of the road with a flat; don’t worry. Roadside assistance will come and help you change your flat tire at any time of the day.

Dead Battery: If your battery dies, roadside assistance can help. They will either jump start your battery or tow you to the nearest facility where you can purchase a new one. In some cases, the roadside assistance vehicle may have additional batteries for purchase in their vehicle.

Emergency Fuel & Fluids: If your vehicle runs out of gas or overheats, roadside assistance can deliver what you need to get your vehicle moving again. Most roadside assistance services will deliver whatever you need; but you will be required to pay for the fuel or fluids that you require.

Locksmith Service: If you lock your keys inside your car or misplace them, roadside assistance will send out a professional who can make you a new key, or get inside your vehicle to recover your key. In most cases you will only have to pay for the cost of a new key.

Roadside assistance can usually be added to your policy for a very minimal cost. Check with your auto insurance agency or company to see how much it would be to add to your current policy. For a small cost you get a lot of security.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

Many classic car owners think that their regular auto insurance covers their classic car with the same level of coverage. However, they are incorrect. If your vehicle fits into the classic car category, make sure you purchase a special policy that will provide you with the appropriate coverage to protect you and your vehicle.

Different types of vehicles can fall under the classification of a classic car. The following is a list of different types of classic cars.

- Antiques: 25 model years and older

- Classics: 20-24 model years

- Collectibles: 15-19 model years

- Exotic Cars: Newer than 15 years, considered to be appreciating in value

- Street Rods: Made before 1949, mechanically and/or cosmetically altered

- Customs: Made since 1949, mechanically or cosmetically altered

- Kit cars: Built from purchased packages, and assembled by an experienced professional,     manufacturer or dealer.

Before you take out a classic car insurance policy, make sure to fully understand what is and what is not covered. Coverages and qualifications may differ between companies. Click here to start the quote process for your classic car. Make sure to have your personal information and vehicle information handy when filling out the application. You can receive a quote in less than 10 minutes, so get started today.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

It all depends on who you ask. Most women will tell you they are better drivers because they are more careful and more considerate than men. If you ask men, you’ll likely hear that they are more aware and handle the car better in all conditions. When it comes to determining auto insurance rates, statistics, opinions are not what counts.

If you guessed that males pay higher rates, you’re right. According to many studies and facts collected on accidents from state and local agencies, men are more likely to be involved in a car accident. In addition, IIHS stated that in 2006, more than twice as many male drivers were fatally injured in auto accidents.

Although male drivers are placed at higher risk, it is usually only between the ages of 18 and 25. Once a male driver reaches 25, rates usually go down; as long as he has a good driving record. Over time, if there are no tickets or accidents, the rates should decrease to about the same level as a comparable female driver.

Remember, no matter if you’re a man or woman, 18 or 45, there are always things you can do to reduce your auto insurance rates. Discounts are offered for certain professions like teaching. Discounts are also awarded to people with good driving records, additional safety features on your vehicle, and many more. Also, if you are still in school, you may be eligible to receive discounted rates for receiving good grades. Check with your carrier to see if you can receive any discounts.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

Buying auto insurance for the first time can be a daunting task. There are many companies out there airing ads that claim their company will save you the most money or that they have the best service. But how do you know which company will provide the best possible rates and service for you? There are many things to look out for when buying insurance for the first time that can help you get the best combination of price and coverage for your vehicle.

1. Shop around. Thanks to the internet, we have unlimited access to resources these days. With AIS you can get quotes in seconds from dozens of highly rated insurance carriers.

2. Get the right type of coverage. With the abundance of different auto insurance policies out there, it is very easy to get confused about which type of coverage to purchase. Make sure you know all of your options and if possible speak with a knowledgeable agency to make sure you fully understand the coverage.

3. Discounts. As a first time purchaser of auto insurance, it is likely you may be eligible for various discounts. These discounts will vary, depending upon the insurance carrier. Most auto insurance companies offer many discounts ranging from your occupation, your driving record, completed driver’s education courses, etc.

4. Service. If you’ve ever been in a car accident before, you know the importance of service. You want to make sure that your auto insurance carrier has quality customer service that is quick and reliable. You want an auto insurance company that is going to investigate the accident and start the claims process immediately. Accidents are bad enough; you don’t want to be stuck without a car for a week or two waiting for your claims rep to come inspect the damage.

Even if it is not your first time buying auto insurance; these are some good guidelines to follow.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

When choosing auto insurance coverage, it is important to select the proper policy to fit your needs.  Many people will purchase the cheapest policy they can, and in the long run, it may end up costing more.  What is saved in a monthly payment can quickly be eaten up in litigation.

If an insurance policy is chosen that does not cover the cost of damage or personal injury, your private assets can be seized in order to pay for the damages.  With the cost of automobile repairs and medical expenses rising, it is very important that you have coverage which will cover the cost of damage or injury if you are in any kind of accident, or have to file a claim.

When deciding on auto insurance, it is a great idea to compare several quotes and then speak with a representative to discuss your individual situation.  When shopping for coverage, make sure you are comparing apples to apples, with regard to limits of liability, deductibles, and other variables.

When reviewing Auto Insurance plans, the following should be considered:

- Bodily Injury Liability

- Property Damage Liability

- Personal Injury Protection

- Uninsured Motorist Protection

- Collision and Comprehensive

Before purchasing anything, make sure you understand what all these coverages mean, and what the consequences will be if you don’t have enough coverage.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein.  No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.