You need car insurance in Massachusetts and it may seem like the cost just continues to climb. However, automobile insurance shouldn’t be a buy-it-and-forget-it expense. Your needs change and you may find you can save money on your premiums while still having the coverage you need in case of an accident. For Spanish-speaking drivers, vea qué hacer si es detenido por OUI.
The base level of coverage that Massachusetts drivers are required to have includes
- Bodily injury liability: a minimum of $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident. This helps to pay for other damages for individuals injured in an accident for which the insured is at fault.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): a minimum of $8,000 to help care for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs related to injuries sustained by the insurance holder or their passengers regardless of who is at fault for the accident.
- Property Damage Liability: a minimum of $5,000 to help pay for damages to another person’s vehicle or property if the insurance holder is found to be at fault in an accident.
If the vehicle is financed or leased, your lender may also require you to carry comprehensive and collision coverage. However, beyond those limits, you have options that will affect the cost of your coverage. Several factors may help to lower your premium costs.
When evaluating your coverage needs, consider these factors:
- What is the value of your vehicle?
- What assets do you have beyond insurance?
- How much time do you spend driving?
- What are the risks you face on the road?
Here are some things you can do to lower your insurance costs:
Compare Quotes from Multiple Insurers
It pays to shop around. There are several companies competing for your business. Each has different rates and discounts. You can use an online comparison tool or an independent insurance agent who can gather quotes from multiple carriers.
Look for Discounts
Insurers offer a variety of discounts such as completing a defensive driving course or having a clean driving record. Ask your insurer about what is offered and whether you are eligible. You may also be able to get a discount for buying several types of policies from the same insurer.
Consider Increasing Deductibles
You may be able to lower your premium by choosing a higher deductible. This means you would pay more for a claim before the insurance kicks in. You need to assess your ability to pay more in case of an accident when considering a higher deductible.
Maintain a Good Driving Record
Your driving history has a significant impact on your insurance premiums. Drivers with clean records typically pay lower rates than those with a history of accidents or traffic violations. Practice safe driving habits, obey traffic laws, and avoid accidents to keep your premiums affordable over time.
Review Your Policy Regularly
Factors such as moving or having a child get a driver’s license can change your insurance needs. Additionally, companies may change what they offer without notifying existing policyholders. Review your policy regularly to ensure that you have the best coverage for you at the best price.
Underinsured/Uninsured Driver Coverage
One affordable add-on to consider is coverage in the case of an accident with an uninsured motorist is uninsured driver coverage. This provides coverage to fill in the gap if you’re involved in an accident with an underinsured or uninsured driver. It can pay for expenses beyond the limits of a regular policy. If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident your underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage may cover medical expenses, vehicle repairs and other losses from the accident. For those who also cycle, review bicycle regulations in Massachusetts.
If you’ve been in a car accident in Massachusetts, contact an attorney for guidance if there is a serious injury, disputed liability, or complex legal issues. At Horrigan and Norman, we provide a free consultation to help you understand your rights and how to get the protection you deserve.
