There’s a reason why so many drivers don’t drive without car insurance. It’s illegal. But it’s also important to have car insurance because it provides financial assistance if you’re deemed at fault in an accident and you’re looking to pay for the other party’s medical expenses and any damages to their vehicle.
If you don’t have insurance, you’re personally responsible for paying, which can be extremely difficult — and often impossible — if you don’t have the money. With that in mind, what are the factors you need to consider as someone who is planning to buy car insurance for the first time?
What Do You Need to Provide When Getting Car Insurance?
You need to present a variety of documents for a variety of reasons; if you buy a car, your insurance will be contingent on your vehicle being insured. If you live in a place with harsh weather conditions, your insurance premium may be higher because that area is much more dangerous.
The documentation you provide is used to determine what kind of coverage you’ll get, which can be adjusted based on your needs. On that note, you'll generally need to provide the following documents to your insurance agent:
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Driver’s license
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Date of birth
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Address
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Occupation
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Marital status
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Education level
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Driving history
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Insurance history
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Vehicle identification number
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Vehicle registration
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Date of purchase
Why Is Car Insurance Expensive for First-Time Buyers?
If you’re a first-time buyer, you should be aware that insurance will cost a little more. This is because of the lack of experience generally associated with new drivers, which can cause you to be perceived as a high-risk driver. This can mean higher premiums and more stringent terms in your coverage.
Different Ways to Lower Your Insurance Rates
1. Join an Existing Policy
There are two ways that you can join an existing policy. The first is through a family member, and the second is through a spouse. In both cases, you can effectively lower your insurance costs by joining an existing household policy.
2. Leverage Insurance Discounts
There are many different types of discounts available to drivers, from loyalty discounts, senior discounts, anti-theft discounts, and more. These discounts are designed to benefit drivers and make it easier for them to afford insurance, while also benefiting insurance companies.
3. Maintain a Good Credit Score
Drivers that maintain a good credit score typically enjoy fewer insurance problems. When you have a good credit score, you’re viewed as a low-risk driver, which means you’ll enjoy lower insurance rates.
The Bottom Line: What to Expect When Buying Car Insurance for the First Time
You should always try to hire an independent insurance agent when you can and do your best to understand the policies that you’re buying so that you can easily make any necessary changes.
Are You Looking for the Best Auto Insurance in Georgia?
Our team at Brand and Britt Insurance is here to help you find the best auto insurance options in Georgia. We’ve helped countless drivers save money on their car insurance by matching them with top-rated insurance companies.