In the state of Florida, you are required to carry auto insurance to operate your vehicle on public roadways legally. Failing not to maintain continuous coverage could land you in hot water with both the DMV and your local courthouse. If you have let your auto insurance lapse because you cannot afford expensive Florida auto insurance rates, it is important to start quoting insurance immediately. When you are obtaining quotes there are a few areas you should focus on. If you know how you are rated and how to lower your premiums, you will realize you can afford to drive legally.
One of the first things an insurance agent will ask you for is your driver license and vehicle ID number. When you give the agent your information, they will put it into their system to find the vehicle’s symbol. The symbol of your vehicle sets the base premium of your vehicle and is based on statistics of claims. The base premium can be changed based on your usage and will go up or down accordingly.
Vehicle usage falls into two separate categories when calculating Florida auto insurance rates, mileage and the amount the vehicle is driven. Auto insurance companies will rate your vehicle premium based on how much you drive. Understandably, individuals that drive more will pay higher premiums than those who drive very little. Many insurers will automatically rate their policy holders as driving the average 12,000 miles per year. This will put you in a high rating bracket and can affect you if you actually drive less. If you drive less than 3000 miles per year, you will qualify for lower rates. Provide proof of your odometer reading and take advantage of the discounted usage rate.
How you drive your vehicle also matters to the insurance company. Vehicle usage is broken down into three different types of use: pleasure, commute, and business. If you drive your vehicle to school or work, you will be rated as a commuter. Business use is designed for professionals that drive to more than one location for business. If you strictly drive your vehicle for pleasure, you will qualify for lower Florida auto insurance rates. Be sure your vehicle usage is being rated accurately if you truly do not commute to and from work or school.
Driving without insurance is risky and can cost you significantly more in the long run. If you want to prevent being pulled over, having your license and registration suspended, and paying fines for driving with no insurance, contact a reputable agent for a quote. If you know how your Florida auto insurance rates are calculated, you can make sure you are charged the correct rates. Compare your quotes, purchase your insurance, and have peace of mind on the road.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/insurance-articles/what-you-many-not-know-about-your-florida-auto-insurance-rates-4671961.html
About the Author
Please visit our website here for more information or visit our blog. Thank you.