Selecting the right auto insurance provider for your needs is an important decision. While nobody plans on being in an accident or having a claim, sometimes things just happen. And the last thing you want in that situation is to discover you don’t have enough coverage…or to feel like your auto insurance provider is fighting your claim instead of helping you resolve it.   If you’ve had a bad claim experience, suspect you may be overpaying for auto insurance, or if you’re just curious as to the features and benefits other carriers may have to offer, it’s probably a good idea to shop around.

Keep in mind, while affordability is important, you may not want to make it the sole factor in your auto insurance decision. Here are some questions to keep in mind to make sure there won’t be any unpleasant surprises down the road:

Is the coverage equal to my current coverage? Check your policy to locate your current coverage limits. Make sure the amounts are adequate to protect all of your assets.

Do I have options on how to buy? Some people like working with a local agent. Others prefer to buy direct from the insurance company. But not all companies offer both options.

Make sure the company you select lets you do business the way you want to do it.

What discounts am I getting? Most every insurance provider offers discounts – but some may offer more than others. Some insurance companies even have special discounts exclusively available to older drivers such as limited driving credits and discounts for belonging to certain organizations such as AARP. Make sure you’re getting all the discounts you deserve.

What special claims services do you offer? Obviously, you want to feel confident that your insurance company will pay your claim. But some insurance companies also strive to keep the claim process hassle-free with services such as arranging car rental, connecting you with a reputable auto repair facility, guaranteeing auto repair workmanship for life, and waiving part of your deductible for using an in-network repair shop. Make sure your insurer will be there for you when you need them most.

Are there any special features and benefits included in the package? Some auto insurance companies today are going beyond the basics to make their insurance more competitive and more attractive to shoppers.

Some of the features on the market today include:

• Lifetime Renewability – this is when an insurer promises not to cancel your insurance after an accident (which happens more often than you may think).
• Recover Care after an Accident – this is when an insurer helps you pay for day-to-day services such as housekeeping, grocery shopping and yard work, should you be injured in an accident. 
• First Accident Forgiveness – this is when an insurer “forgives” your first accident and doesn’t raise your rates because of it.
• New Car Replacement – this is when an insurer pays the full replacement cost of a new vehicle that gets totaled in an accident.
• Disappearing / Shrinking Deductible – this is when an insurer reduces or eliminates your deductible as a reward for maintaining a clean driving record.
• Not at Fault Deductible Waivers – this is when an insurer waives your deductible when you’re involved in an accident that isn’t your fault.

It’s always a good idea to do your homework about an insurer to make sure you’re getting a good deal – and quality insurance – from a provider you can trust.

The AARP Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford offers auto insurance designed exclusively for people over 50. Drivers who switch from Geico save an average of $403… drivers who switch from Allstate save an average of $502… and drivers who switch from State Farm save an average of $304.* Find out how much your savings could be. Learn more about affordable car insurance from the AARP Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford.

* Savings amounts are based on information from The Hartford’s AARP Auto Insurance Program customers who became new auto insurance policyholders between 1/1/09 to 12/31/09 and provided data regarding their savings. Your savings may vary.

Cut Your Auto Insurance Bill Almost in Half

1. Consider getting rid of your collision and comprehensive coverage on your older car.

2. Raising your deductible to $1000 could cut your premium by as much as 40%.

3. If you have a teen on your policy consider buying a separate policy for him/her.