How To Buy Car Insurance In Birmingham
Many consumers assume purchasing car insurance is a complex and lengthy process. However, most drivers can find a policy within minutes when utilizing websites like Insuranceopedia to compare free auto coverage quotes.
Below are some essential steps when buying car insurance in Birmingham.
Step 1: Gather Information
Even though you can complete the information step when purchasing auto insurance, it’s often easier to gather it beforehand. The most common types of information you’ll need include:
- Driving history for all drivers on the plan
- Information about your vehicle — annual mileage, safety features, current odometer reading, VIN, make, model, and year of the vehicle
- Driver’s license numbers for all policy members
- Name and birthdate of all policy members
- Information on the current insurer, if you’re switching carriers
Step 2: Understand Your Coverage Needs
For drivers in Birmingham, the state requires that each motorist carry an insurance policy that has the following minimums:
- $25,000 bodily injury liability limit per person
- $50,000 maximum for all bodily injuries to be paid for any one accident
- $25,000 maximum for property damage per accident
Keep these numbers in mind as you move into the remaining steps of purchasing a plan. The state could force you to pay a fine for driving without proper insurance and minimum coverage.
Step 3: Select A Purchasing Method
Most people prefer to shop online for their car insurance policy. This path is often the easiest, and many shoppers feel they have more time to compare offers without the added pressure of working with an insurance agent. However, there are still some benefits to going through the traditional route of an insurance agency.
For instance, working with a licensed insurance agent allows you to ask questions and receive instant answers. While many online carriers have a chat feature, you may have to wait for the information you need to proceed with a policy.
Regardless of which path you choose, online or in-person, selecting the policy that makes the most sense for your current situation is important.
Step 4: Compare Auto Insurance Policies
It’s often easy to simply select the first quote you receive from an insurance agency. However, collecting at least three samples from different providers is always a good idea. With additional quotes, you can compare rates and review the types of discounts you qualify for from each insurance company.
Step 5: Purchase Your New Auto Insurance Policy
The final step in purchasing an auto insurance policy is buying the coverage. You’ll need to purchase your new policy and close any open ends at this stage.
For example, if you’re replacing coverage, you’ll want to contact your former insurer and have them cancel your car insurance policy after the new plan is active.