Cutting Costs?

Everyone likes a discount, but discount car insurance ?

In an attempt to save money, people tend to start cutting costs.  Take car insurance costs for example. Some car insurance coverage is really something you should "splurge" on. What seems like a wastes expense could more than pay for itself in the long term..

One so called "add on" expense that is recommended to have is "rental car coverage".  This extra coverage is usually something you have to request your agent for, but the tiny increase in your yearly rate (probably $20) can be more than worth it in the long run.  If your car or truck is being repaired, the rental fees that are accuring will be covered by your rental car policy. If you did not have this coverage you could end up paying the total rental car expense yourself.

Ask your agent about their specific limits of rental coverage.  In the majority of cases you are allowed a reimbursement of $25 per day for a maximum of coverage of 25 days.  If you have ever been involved in a major car accident, you will probably agree that 25 days in the body repair business can go by very quickly. Some causes of delay are:

• Waiting on your insurance adjuster to make an initial visit and approve your claim,
• Rreplacement parts must be ordered or special ordered in some cases
• Account for the actual repair time,
• Adjustments for weekends and holidays
• and just human nature (or lack of)

are all important factors to consider when you wonder why it can take months to repair a vehicle these days.

Make sure to remind your repair shop about your rental car limits, and hold them accountable for all rental car expenses not covered under your car insurance policy. Some shops might refuse to agree to this, which might be a good indicator on how long they think "Actual" repair time will likely take.

Austin Davis

Freelance write and consumer advocate for the auto repair and car insurance sectors. Find an auto insurance agent