Most individuals who drive a vehicle have that vehicle insured (or should). In many states (including Illinois) auto insurance is mandatory. However, mandatory does not mean adequate. Even the phrase “full coverage” does not indicate adequate coverage for a person or family. The following is a breakdown of what coverages are generally provided on an auto policy, and some ideas regarding the amount those coverages should be. A. This coverage is for you or a permitted driver of your vehicle that provides liability coverage in the event you are liable for bodily injury from an auto accident. This coverage provides bodily injury protection on a per person and per accident basis. There’s also coverage for property damage. Coverages are stated in thousands of dollars. For example, 250/500/100 means $250,000 of bodily injury protection per person, $500,000 total per accident, and $100,000 property damage coverage. Coverage amounts can be higher (or […]
auto insurance
A Risk Management Checklist
Although many individuals have various risk management policies in place, sometimes those policies get brushed aside and every once in a while the dust needs to be wiped off of them and perhaps some updating needed. Here’s a checklist to consider the next time you review your risk management strategies. Auto Insurance – Review your coverage to make sure it’s still adequate. Liability limits of at least $250,000 should be the norm. Limits of $500,000 up to $1 million are better. If you drive an older car, consider raising your comp and collision deductibles or eliminating them altogether to save on premiums. Upside down on your car loan? Consider gap insurance. Better yet, don’t have a car loan. Home Insurance – Make sure your home is insured to its reconstruction cost. This is the cost to rebuild your home using today’s prices for materials, labor, etc. It is NOT the […]
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How to Save on Auto Insurance
No, this isn’t a plug for a specific insurance company. It’s more of a plug on how you can put more money into your pocket by following a few simple steps to lower your auto insurance premium without sacrificing the importance of liability coverage. Consider raising your deductibles. If you’ve never been in an accident or it’s been quite a long time since your last accident then chances are you’re paying too much if your deductibles are low – anywhere from $0 to $250. Raising your deductibles can lower your premiums and generally the higher the deductible the lower your premium. Consider dropping full coverage. If you’ve got an older vehicle – roughly 10 years old or older – you may consider dropping comprehensive and collision coverage and save some money. Generally, as the age of your vehicle increases its value decreases. This may also be a good option for […]
Sterling Raskie, MSFS, CFP®, ChFC®
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