Auto Insurance

What is auto insurance?

Auto insurance protects you against financial loss if you have an accident. It is a contract between you and the insurance company. You agree to pay the premium and the insurance company agrees to pay your losses as defined in your policy.

Auto insurance provides property, liability and medical coverage:

• Property coverage pays for damage to or theft of your car.
• Liability coverage pays for your legal responsibility to others for bodily injury or property damage.
• Medical coverage pays for the cost of treating injuries, rehabilitation and sometimes lost wages and funeral expenses.

An auto insurance policy is comprised of six different kinds of coverage. Most states require you to buy some, but not all, of these coverages. If you're financing a car, your lender may also have requirements.

Most auto policies are for six months or a year. Your insurance company should notify you by mail when it's time to renew the policy and to pay your premium.

Why do you need auto insurance?

It's really all about protecting yourself financially.

• If you're in an accident or your car is stolen, it costs money, often a lot of money, to fix or replace it.
• If you or any passengers are injured in an accident, medical costs can be extremely expensive.
• If you or your car is responsible for damage or injury to others, you may be sued for much more than you're worth.
• Not only is having insurance a prudent financial decision, many states require you to have at least some coverage.

How does auto insurance work? 

An auto insurance policy is a contractual agreement between you and the insurer. In exchange for regular premium payments, the insurer agrees to cover damage to your vehicle and protects you financially against third-party claims of property damage or bodily injury. Depending on the coverages you purchase, you may also be financially protected if you’re in an accident with an underinsured or uninsured motorist. A policy may also cover medical bills you or another covered party (e.g., spouse or dependents) sustains in an accident. If you’re in an accident, you’ll call the insurance company to start the claims submission process. Then, an agent will evaluate your claim and determine payouts.  
What auto insurance is required by law? 

Auto insurance requirements are determined by states. Under South Carolina Tort law, you must purchase minimum amounts of auto liability coverage and uninsured motorist coverage to be allowed to drive in the state legally.  

Although not legally required, if you’ve financed or leased your vehicle, your lender may require you to carry additional coverages, such as comprehensive and collision insurance.   

Questions to ask your agent

Your Independent Agent is an advocate for finding auto insurance that meets your specific needs. Here are a few things to consider as you prepare for the discussion:

• How much can you afford to pay if you get in an accident? (To keep premiums low you may want to have a higher deductible and be willing to pay more for repairs.)
• What is the insurance company's level of service and ability to pay claims?
• What discounts are available? (Ask about good driver, multiple policy and student discounts.)
• What's the procedure for filing and settling a claim? (Ask who to call and what happens after you file a claim.)