Make sure that you are getting the auto insurance coverage you need.
If you own a car, every state requires you to have some level of auto insurance and states often require minimum amounts of auto insurance. In California, the state minimum auto insurance is 15,000/30,000/10,000. However, these insurance minimums may not be enough to adequately protect you and can leave you vulnerable. Learn about the most common gaps in auto insurance coverage and make sure you have all the protection you need.
Transportation Expenses Coverage
If you are in an accident and are unable to drive your vehicle, you might have to rely on a rental car or other transportation service (bus, taxi, etc.). However, many auto insurance policies don’t provide coverage for these expenses. If your policy doesn’t cover transportation expenses, that taxi fare might be coming straight from your pocket. Coverage for rental car reimbursement is dependent on the type of policy coverage you have in force and the circumstances around the need for a rental car, i.e. if it is due to an accident you are involved in. You need to check in with your agent regarding this.
College Student Coverage
Most auto insurance policies provide coverage for you and the family members who live with you. If you have a child who is going off to college, they might not be covered by your policy. Students living in college dorms are typically covered by their parents’ insurance, but students staying in off-campus apartments may be excluded depending on whether or not they have a family car with them at school. We recommend you check with your insurance provider to ensure that your college student is protected while they’re away.
Original Equipment Manufacturer Coverage
If your luxury or specialty vehicle sustains damage, your car might not be repaired using original manufacturer equipment. While your insurance policy will cover damages, coverage might not include new, manufacturer specific parts. For example, if your brand-new BMW needs repairs, then there is a possibility that broken equipment might be replaced using non-BMW, or refurbished BMW parts. Check with your agent to verify whether you already have OEM coverage or can add it to your policy.
Flood Coverage
Standard auto insurance policies may not cover flood damage to your vehicle. This means that if your car is damaged during a flood, then the cost of repairs falls on your shoulders. If you live in a high flood risk area, then talk to your insurance provider for clarification on how to make sure your vehicles would be covered in the event of flooding.
To review your insurances for any gaps you might have, or to be clear regarding your car insurance, contact us at Randy Jones Insurance Services in Pleasanton, California to find the right insurance policy for your needs.
