Deciding Between Full Coverage and Liability Auto Insurance

Drivers often wonder whether they should purchase liability vs full coverage insurance. Both coverage types are good options, but the Insurance Center of Green Valley wants to help you understand the differences.

Liability VS Full Coverage

Liability auto insurance is the bare minimum required by law in most states for you to drive legally. It is designed to cover damage and other expenses caused by you in an accident. In Green Valley, AZ, the minimum liability required is:

  • $15,000 for bodily injury per person/ up to $30,000 per accident
  • $10,000 for property damage per accident

Full coverage goes beyond the minimum requirements. Most full coverage policies also include collision and comprehensive. It insures against any covered event regardless of who is at fault.

Both liability and full coverage have their pros and cons:

Advantages of Disadvantages of Liability

Liability insurance is known as the more affordable option. As it covers damage to other people and property that belongs to other drivers involved in an accident you cause, it helps take the financial burden off of you.

The largest downside of carrying only liability is that it does not cover your vehicle in the event of an accident. If your car is totaled or damaged in an accident in which you are at fault, you will be paying to replace or repair your own vehicle.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Full Coverage

Full coverage insurance will take care of damages and injuries to people and property involved in an accident regardless of who is at fault- as long as it is a covered event. It can make sure you get back on the road if there are damages to your own vehicle as well as other expenses incurred during an accident. The biggest disadvantage to full coverage is that it is a less budget-friendly option, but the additional coverage often far outweighs this issue.

If you are in or around the Insurance Center of Green in Valley, AZ, stop by or give us a call for your no-obligation quote on liability and full coverage auto insurance! 

5 Common Misconceptions about Auto Insurance

Misconceptions about auto insurance can cost you dearly when it comes to making a claim. At Insurance Center of Green Valley in Green Valley, AZ, we’ll clarify any misconceptions you may have concerning auto coverage so you can get the coverage you need. Here are some common misconceptions to watch out for when purchasing your policy.  

Misconception: Minimum Coverage is Enough

Arizona requires that you have minimum liability coverage to protect others in accidents you cause. Minimum coverage, however, won’t be enough to protect you against serious accidents, leaving you liable for remaining costs. For optimal protection, it’s best to obtain as much liability insurance as you can afford.  

Misconception: Comprehensive Insurance Provides “Blanket” Coverage

Comprehensive only covers your vehicle against theft and non-collision accidents such as damage caused by falling objects, storms or vandalism. By adding collision, uninsured/underinsured motorist and roadside assistance to your insurance package, you’ll have broader coverage.

Misconception: Auto Insurance Follows the Driver

Auto insurance follows your vehicle, not the driver. If you loan your car to a friend, and he causes an accident, your auto insurance is responsible for damages. You will also be responsible for your deductible.

Misconception: Red Cars are More Costly to Insure

The color of your car has no bearing on the cost of auto insurance coverage. The make, model, and value of your vehicle, however, can affect insurance costs.

Misconception: Auto Insurance Automatically Covers Rental Car Costs

Unless you have insurance coverage for a rental vehicle, your insurer isn’t required to pay for one if your car has to go to the shop for repairs after an accident. By adding rental vehicle coverage to your policy, you can avoid problems with a lack of transportation after an accident.

To learn more about auto insurance coverage and costs, contact Insurance Center of Green Valley in Green Valley, AZ.

Green Valley, AZ Auto Insurance For Teens

Parents with teens face questions about driving. Who will teach them to drive? What rules will you set? Do teen drivers in Green Valley, AZ need auto insurance? Hopefully, parents have been setting a good example as responsible drivers up to this point. They now need to consider the matter of insurance. This is where the Insurance Center of Green Valley can help them. 

Teens holding a learner’s permit do not need additional coverage under Arizona law. Your present insurance coverage is sufficient as they practice their parking and merging. This might be a good time to discuss upcoming changes to your policy with your insurance provider. Once your child receives their license, they will be required to carry auto insurance.  They might purchase their own under certain circumstances, but most teens are added to the existing policy of the parents.

May we recommend some tips to help your child have a good start to their driving years?

  • Provide them with roadside assistance. 
  • Pack an emergency bag, and show them how to use the items in it.
  • Agree on family rules that address safety and responsible driving behavior.

Our agents at the Insurance Center of Green Valley can help you get the coverage that will serve your family. We would be happy to discuss the changes you will face when adding a new driver to your current insurance. It may be a good time to shop around for a new policy, but there is no obligation to do so. Green Valley, AZ parents can rely on the expertise of our agents as we help them navigate the teen years. Contact us today. 

 

How Much Auto Insurance Coverage Do I Need to Have?

Owning a car is a very important responsibility. One part of being a good and safe driver is making sure that you have proper auto insurance coverage in place at all times. For those that are in the Green Valley, AZ area, there are a variety of factors that need to be considered when you are trying to build an auto insurance policy with the appropriate coverage. 

Liability Requirements

Your first need to make sure that you have liability insurance. This form of insurance will ensure you are able to pay restitution if you are at fault in an accident that causes damage. Similar to all states, you will be required to carry minimum levels of liability insurance at all times in Arizona. 

Lender Requirements

If you have taken out a loan or lease to buy a car, you will need to carefully consider your lender requirements as well. Auto lenders will always want to verify that you have approrpriate coverage in place. Normally, this will require that you have liability that meets or exceeds the state minimum as well as a full collision and comprehensive insurance plan. Additionally, you may need to get gap coverage to ensure that you have the ability to pay off the loan through an insurance claim if your vehicle is totaled. 

Ensuring that you have the right type and level of auto insurance is very important. When you are looking to get insurance in the Green Valley, AZ area, the team at the Insurance Center of Green Valley should be the first group that you call. The Insurance Center of Green Valley will be able to review your personal situation and figure out what type and level of insurance you need to have to provide necessary protection and ensure you are in compliance with the law and all agreements. 

Protecting Your Car From The Arizona Heat

The Arizona Heat in the summer months can be dangerous to your car, including the Green Valley, AZ area. Sun damage can diminish the appearance of your car and require additional work that you were not anticipating beneath the hood. Below are tips to minimize sun damage throughout your car and keep your car looking new while you own it. 

Keep Your Car Washed and Waxed 

Frequently washing your car and waxing it can protect the paint from long-term sun damage. The wax is used as a layer of protection from the sun and prevents paint cracking from temperatures that regularly exceed 100 degrees. 

Top Off Those Reservoirs

All fluids beneath the hood of your car are essential for an operating system. They also carry the chance of evaporation, especially is extreme heat areas. Make sure that all of your fluid reservoirs are topped off to ensure that your car will continue to operate properly in these extreme temperatures. 

How’s the Battery?

With the air conditioning set at its highest temperature for several months, maintaining that system, as well as standard operations can be stressful on your car battery. Have it checked out before the summer months roll in to ensure that it is properly operating. 

Keep That Interior Cool

Any time you have the option to park your car under shelter, take advantage of these garages at home, in your complex parking area, and any garages at work. If you do not have access, make sure that you purchase a window visor to deflect the heat out of your vehicle, maintaining the internal temperature. 

Need a New Auto Insurance Policy?

At the Insurance Center of Green Valley, we offer auto insurance policies to residents in the Green Valley, AZ area. Use our online rating tool for your quote today from the Insurance Center of Green Valley or contact one of our agents for more information. 

 

Safe Driving Habits for Summer Road Trips

There’s nothing more exciting than taking a summer road trip with your family. Whether you’re exploring the Green Valley, AZ area or traveling beyond, the following road safety tips from Insurance Center of Green Valley can enhance your summer travels.

Inspect Your Vehicle

Before hitting the road this summer, have your mechanic do a multi-point inspection of your vehicle. Your mechanic should check your engine, battery, fluids, tires, brakes and cooling system before giving you an “all clear” for long distance travels.  

Plan Your Route

In addition to using your smartphone’s GPS, make sure you bring an updated map to mark your routes and plan your travels. A map will come in handy if you encounter areas where you receive no service on the road. Maps are easy to follow and reliable at all times, making it easy to keep track of your travels.

Drive Defensively

Drive defensively, making sure to obey speed limits, keeping a safe distance from other cars, stopping to rest when you’re tired and avoiding texting or talking on your cell phone when driving. Take your time and enjoy your road trip to the full by visiting natural resources or exploring famous landmarks along the way.  

Protect Your Vehicle and Belongings

Lock your vehicle when you’re not inside to protect your car (and belongings) from theft. Park in well-lit, secure areas when stopping to rest or have a meal to discourage thieves from targeting your vehicle. If you must stop at night to use restroom facilities, use the facilities quickly to reduce your risk of theft.

Update Car Insurance

Make sure your auto insurance is up-to-date for full protection on the road. To update your auto insurance coverage for an upcoming road trip, contact Insurance Center of Green Valley in Green Valley, AZ today.

When to shop for new auto insurance

All your insurance policies are forms of expenses which can change over time. Auto insurance is one of those expenses that you can always check and shop for the best deal. To do this, of course, you need to be a regular shopper and also keen to buy from a certified company like the Insurance Center of Green Valley if you live around Green Valley, AZ. Here are the most opportune times to shop for new auto insurance.

If you purchased a new car

This should sound almost automatic. Purchasing a new car means getting it insured, which of course does not need to be from the previous auto insurance company. This is the best moment to find out whether you are getting some value for your money or not.

If you are getting married

Getting married comes with lots of changes in one’s life. It means reviewing all your financial expenses, cutting some and adding on some. All your insurance policies will play a tremendous role in protecting you and your young family. This will be an excellent moment to check your auto insurance and determine whether to buy or not.

If you are getting old 

Car insurance like any other expense will change with time. New regulations by the government can also tamper with the rates, that s why it is prudent to stay relevant with your auto insurance news. As you age the rates get naturally better, therefore shop once every few years.

Not getting good deals from other companies? Let the Insurance Center of Green Valley take care of all your insurance needs. To know everything about us, visit us at Green Valley, AZ and our friendly staff will assist you in finding the policy that fits your needs best.

What to Do When You Do Not Have Auto Insurance

Auto insurance is something that you need to legally have in the state of Arizona if you are the owner and operator of a vehicle. Because of the law, you may be wondering what you need to do if you do not have auto insurance in Green Valley, AZ. Luckily, the answer is a pretty simple one and we can help you here at the Insurance Center of Green Valley. 

When it comes down to it, the only thing that you really need to do is get an auto insurance policy. This may seem complicated if you have never purchased your own policy before or if you currently do not have coverage when you should but we are here to help walk you through the steps. 

You need to make sure that you get a policy that will meet the minimum state requirements by law. This is usually pretty simple because most insurance companies would not sell you a policy that did not meet these requirements. However, it is still something good to check on before you move any further with the process. 

Once you know that part is covered, you can add on more coverage if you want but you are not required to. If you do not want to, it is simply a matter of paying for the policy and making it effective. 

Now that you know what you need to do, it is time to get started. Be sure to reach out to us here at Insurance Center of Green Valley, serving Green Valley, AZ, to get started on your auto insurance policy today. We will make sure that the policy you choose meets the minimum requirements of the state and we will also work with your budget. 

Auto Insurance Add Ons You Need

When it comes to protecting your vehicle there are a number of auto insurance add ons you’ll want to consider. While it comes down to the kind of vehicle you drive, the amount you drive, and the kind of protection you’re interested in, chances are there are some auto insurance add ons that will give you peace of mind. If you live in or around Green Valley, AZ the team at Insurance Center of Green Valley is here to help. 

Roadside Assistance

There’s nothing worse than being stuck on the side of the road with no way to move your vehicle. Whether it’s a flat tire that you can’t change, a dead battery, the engine overheated and shut down, or there are other problems altogether, it is essential to have roadside assistance. It will save you money and keep you safe. 

Personal Injury Protection

Chances are your auto insurance may also cover some aspects of medical expenses. Your medical insurance may kick in as well. However, chances are this will not fully protect you and others within the vehicle. This is where personal injury protection, or PIP, comes in. This kind of auto insurance goes the extra mile and covers medical expenses up to a set amount. This set amount can be adjusted depending on the policy you decide to take advantage of.

No matter what kind of vehicle you drive or who your current insurance provider is, it’s always a good idea to look into your current coverage and decide what is best for your particular needs. When you live in or around Green Valley, AZ the team at Insurance Center of Green Valley can help. All you need to do is pick up your phone and give the team a call at your earliest convenience. 

What Auto Insurance Do I Need?

For those that are in the Green Valley, AZ area, owning a car is practically a necessity. If you do have a car in this area, it is important that you have it properly covered by insurance. Since there are so many different options out there today, picking the right policy can be hard. There are several factors to consider when you are trying to find the right insurance for your situation.

Bare Minimum Requirements

Both state law and auto insurance lenders will require that you carry auto insurance. Per the state guidelines, you will be required to have minimum liability coverage of at least $10,000 in property damage coverage with $15,000 / $30,000 for bodily injury coverage. If you have an auto loan, your lender will undoubtedly require that you have collision and comprehensive coverage in place as well with a coverage level sufficient to cover your loan amount.

Additional Coverage

In many situations, you may also want to have additional coverage on top of your base requirements. If you do not have a loan or lease on the vehicle, having collision and comprehensive coverage is still often preferred as it will pay to replace your car in a variety of situations. Further, the state mandated liability coverage levels are not normally recommended as they do not often provide adequate coverage. 

If you are in the Green Valley, AZ area and are in need of auto insurance for your car, you should reach out to the team at Insurance Center of Green Valley. The Insurance Center of Green Valley knows the law and other auto insurance requirements. Their experience and insight will help you to decide what type of insurance you should get and how much coverage you need. This will result in you getting the appropriate level of protection.