Auto Insurance Tip for December

Take towing off your auto policy and pay for your own windshield chip repairs.  Why? Think of your auto policy, just like we do for medical insurance to cover catastrophic events whenever possible. With the insurance market a mess and rates skyrocketing, it is more important than ever to keep your auto insurance C.L.U.E. Report (loss report shared by insurance companies) as clean as possible as insurance companies are now looking at all claims (towing, glass, non-fault accidents, etc.) for eligibility when applying to be a new client and in many cases whether or not to renew a client.

Let’s talk about towing coverage.  My recommendation is to get AAA for towing and make sure to get the PLUS level coverage that provides 100 miles of towing, otherwise if you get the Classic level, you only get five miles. Now here is the hidden secret and mistake many folks make if they buy directly from AAA. Had one tonight! If you have Progressive online or through an agent, you can get a 5% discount if you provide Progressive proof of your AAA membership (copy of your card).

Many insurance companies offer more than the standard discounts, so always make sure your insurance agent or companies know your education level, where you bank (credit unions), and any other policies you have with the company you are going with. Many folks will have Progressive with separate policies for auto, toys, trailers… and you would qualify for the multi-policy discount.

Let’s talk about windshield chip repairs and the best practice. My recommendation is no more than three windshield replacements in the household in a 36-month rolling period. Keep the chip repairs off your C.L.U.E. report and pay for them yourself. If you do get a chip repair, call your agent and ask them for a recommendation as they usually work with many companies, and you may get an amazing deal. Be careful if you go to Safelite, always check the price first ,their cash prices are usually higher than independent glass shop operators. A general and important consideration is to save your windshield replacements for your cars that have any type of computers/sensors/cameras integrated on the windshield (lane departure, cruise spacing…) and require calibration as it can be expensive. Best advice I can give is don’t rely on your insurance company or agent to give you all the discounts.

Most companies will put online all the available discounts, or just make sure to discuss them all when buying a policy or doing a review. Make sure to get all the savings you are entitled to ensure you have the best coverage and rates.

Best Wishes this holiday season – Eric L. Ash, your neighborhood insurance broker.