Auto Insurance in Greenville, NC

Choosing a New Car Insurance Policy Like a Pro

Shopping for car insurance in Greenville NC can be overwhelming, but buying the right policy is critical to recovering after an accident. If you're unsatisfied with your current insurance policy in the Old North State or if you're buying a car for the first time, follow these tips to pick your policy like a professional.

Think About Your Risk

Although Greenville's crash rates are decreasing, in 2016 and 2017, the city experienced the most accidents of all major North Carolina cities. Your risk goes up if you spend a lot of time on major roads such as Route 264 or at busy intersections such as where West Arlington Boulevard and Dickinson Avenue meet. 

Your risk also goes up if you're an inexperienced driver or if you have kids learning how to drive on your policy. Working long hours and driving an older car further increases your chances of getting in an accident. 

The higher your risk of having an accident, the higher your limits for car insurance in Greenville NC should be. Asking for higher limits usually raises your premiums, but it also ensures that you have plenty of assistance after an accident.

Understand the Law

Your insurance broker is well-versed in North Carolina's car insurance laws, but it's still a good idea to educate yourself before your first meeting. Liability coverage is the only required insurance type, and you must have at least $25,000 of coverage for property damage. You must have at least $30,000 of bodily injury coverage for one person involved in a crash and $60,000 for crashes involving two or more people.

Not maintaining your coverage can lead to fees, license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and jail time. Furthermore, you must be able to demonstrate to any law enforcement personnel who pull you over that you have insurance. Keep proof of insurance with your vehicle registration at all times to avoid fees ranging from $50 to $150.

Take Common-Sense Safety Precautions

When you're applying for car insurance in Greenville NC, taking common-sense safety precautions can lower your premiums and keep you safer on the road. If you have safety issues such as a cracked windshield, missing nuts on your tires, or broken taillights, have them fixed before you apply for insurance. If your car is old, consider adding some new safety features:

• Daytime running lights
• Anti-lock braking systems
• Lane shift monitors
• Backup cameras

Also, once you have your insurance plan, commit to safe driving practices to avoid having your premiums go up. Always use your turn signal, and turn on your headlights at night or when in tunnels. Wear your seatbelt at all times, check your mirrors carefully when you merge, and leave yourself plenty of time to brake. Consider taking a driving improvement class through the Department of Transportation to refresh yourself on driving best practices.

Choose the Right Coverage

Don't make a hasty decision about the types of coverage you want. Liability insurance is the only required car insurance in Greenville NC, but there are many other kinds. If you're worried about paying for hospital and physical therapy bills after an accident, personal injury protection coverage is a good option. Collision coverage helps with similar costs when your car gets damaged, and underinsured motorist insurance covers repairs if the party who is liable for your accident doesn't have enough insurance.

This information is intended for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice.