5 things to know about car insurance
Slemp Brant Saunders Insurance Agency provides car insurance in Chilhowie, Abingdon, Wytheville, Marion, VA, Bristol, VA, Glade Spring and surrounding areas.
Coverage Types: 
- Understanding the various types of coverage is crucial. Common types include:
- Liability Coverage: This pays for damages and injuries you cause to others in an accident.
- Collision Coverage: Covers damage to your own vehicle in a collision.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Protects against non-collision incidents like theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of fault.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects you if the at-fault party has insufficient or no insurance.
Deductibles and Premiums:
- Deductible: This is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Higher deductibles typically result in lower premiums, but it means you’ll pay more in case of a claim.
- Premium: This is the cost you pay for your insurance coverage. Factors affecting premiums include your driving history, location, type of coverage, and the car’s make and model.
Factors Affecting Premiums:
- Driving Record: A clean driving record often leads to lower premiums.
- Location: Your address influences premiums due to factors like crime rates and traffic patterns.
- Type of Car: The make, model, and year of your vehicle impact insurance costs.
- Credit Score: In some regions, credit history can affect your premium.
- Usage: How you use your car (commuting, business, pleasure) can impact rates.
Discounts:
Insurance companies offer various discounts, such as safe driver discounts, multi-policy discounts (combining auto and home insurance), good student discounts, and discounts for safety features in your car (anti-theft systems, airbags, etc.). Inquire about available discounts to reduce your premium.
Policy Limits and Exclusions:
- Policy Limits: Understand the maximum amount your insurance will pay in the event of a claim. It’s crucial to have adequate coverage to protect your assets.
- Exclusions: Be aware of situations not covered by your policy. For instance, some policies may not cover damage from natural disasters or certain types of accidents.
Remember to review and update your car insurance policy regularly, especially when there are changes in your driving habits, location, or vehicle. Being informed about your coverage can help you make better decisions and ensure you have the protection you need. Kindly call us without hesitation.