If your car has been involved in a road accident and you're wondering if you should switch your car insurance provider or not, this article has the answer to all your questions. A car insurance company doesn't prohibit you from changing your car insurance provider company. If you are not happy, you can adjust your auto insurance provider at any time.
Top Things to Keep in Mind While Making the Switch
Swapping your car insurance company is not a bad idea. But certain protocols need to be followed -
- Inform the company well within time via call or email: In order to cancel your current car insurance policy, you should contact your existing car insurance company at the optimum time. The insurer will begin the cancellation process and will take between 7 and 15 days.
- Follow through the cancellation process carefully: Your insurance agent will direct you through the cancellation process. Several auto insurance firms require you to sign a policy cancellation form. In comparison, certain automobile insurance companies might need you to contact them via email.
- Some companies might ask for a signed declaration of policy: Several auto insurance firms will ask you to provide them with a signed document to initiate the cancellation of the policy. Once the request has been accepted, the insurer may confirm the procedure.
- Check for any refund amount: You will find the due refund payable to you in the letter of approval. Check for any refund that the insurer has to pay you. Suppose you have already paid the insurance premium for the duration of the contract; you are likely to obtain a refund on a prorated basis.
- Collect your car insurance certificate: Note that your auto insurer will often return your car insurance certificate. You will need it to maintain your No Claim Bonus when you switch your policy provider.
- Apply for new car insurance: Around the same time, apply for a new auto insurance policy when you are beginning to cancel your existing policy. Failure to do so may result in fines. In the event of unintended liabilities resulting in personal injury or property harm, or you may need to pay an additional fee when you purchase a new policy.
Factors to Consider While Buying a New Policy
When replacing your car insurance company, it is recommended that you compare different car insurance plans and then substitute yours with the correct car insurance provider.
Some of the factors that you should consider are listed below-
- Passenger Cover: If you drive too much with your friends and relatives, you should ensure that your policy provides passenger coverage.
- Agency Repair: If you do not have this in your current policy, you can apply for agency repair coverage.
- Personal Belongings Cover: Check whether the auto insurance policy offers personal belongings coverage at the time of an accident or robbery.
- Car Replacement Service: If you commute to work regularly, select a scheme that will provide you with a car replacement service in an emergency or crash.
- No Claim Bonus: By transferring to the new auto insurance company, you can take advantage of a decent deal by submitting the national insurance certificate from the last insurer to the new insurance agent. It will make sure you've been driving safely and your claims-free history for the previous year.
- The increased price of premiums: New auto insurance has been implemented since September 2018, making it compulsory to purchase long-term automobile insurance for third parties. It helps increase the advantages of coverage and security for consumers, but this has also increased the premiums. So, your car insurance policy may charge you more if your car is new.
It's suggested that you find the best price by making an online comparison of different car insurance policies. The premium cost can vary depending on your car's model, age, injury, and history of driving. The significant cost difference is in a comprehensive policy because it considers all factors relevant to the car's safety and your risk of making a claim. However, the premium for any other third-party insurance policy remains more or less the same for a vehicle with the same engine capacity.
- Compare online: Comparing policies online is rapidly growing among policy seekers due to its convenient nature and improved choice provision. Not only is it more comfortable, but it also saves time, money, and effort. Comparison of insurance policies will help you save on premiums and speed up the purchase process very much. It provides quotes from different companies at the same place easing the process of comparison. Just like what Akansha did when she purchased her car insurance policy online. Earlier she was being skeptical about it but once she explored the process online, she realized that the online process is quite easy, fast, and reliable. She easily compared many quotes of different insurers online and finally purchased the best car insurance policy, meeting her needs.
- Remove the benefits that you no longer require: Until you choose and sign up for a new car insurance plan, you can opt-out of optional add-ons that are not necessary. Do not underestimate or overestimate the worth of your car since it will raise costs in the future. When you have understood the requirements, you should consult with various insurance providers to compare the premium cost.
Final Thoughts
Every policyholder should note that an accident or mishap cannot prohibit you from changing your insurance plan. If you feel that your insurance provider is providing inadequate coverage or you have come across a better plan, inform your insurance company about your intentions to cancel within time.
Remember to watch out for pending refund amounts and collect your car insurance certificate. While looking for a new policy, online comparison is advised. Choose your add-ons carefully and remove the unnecessary covers. Keeping all these points in mind will ensure that you have a seamless policy change process!
