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		<title>AutoInsuranceSelect - Latest Updates</title>
		<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/</link>
		<description>AutoInsuranceSelect - Cheapest car insurance</description>
		<language>en</language>
		<pubDate>Sat, 04 Jul 2009 17:43:55 -0400</pubDate>

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			<title>Factors That Affect Your Car Insurance Premium</title>
			<description><![CDATA[Many factors affect the premium you will pay for auto insurance. Each is a statistically based risk for a specific population. The higher the risk ass[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Many factors affect the premium you will pay for auto insurance. Each is a statistically based risk for a specific population. The higher the risk associated with a person, the more he or she is likely to pay for coverage. We have elaborated on some of the risk factors below, but there are numerous others, including driver's gender, miles driven per year, purpose for using the vehicle (commuting to work, using for work, leisure only), etc.

* Age
Statistically, drivers under the age of 25 are at greater risk of being in an accident than those over age 25. Drivers between the ages of 50 and 65 generally have the safest records.
* Gender
Women are statistically safer drivers, but that trend is changing as more female drivers get on the road.
* Marital Status
A married person will pay less than a single person with an identical driving record.

You can think about these factors and determine what you can do to change them in your situation. You may be able to save on insurance based upon these decisions:

* Geography
Where you live makes a difference. Folks living in areas with little or no traffic are likely to spend less on insurance than those living in congested cities or suburbs because areas with a lot of traffic tend to see more accidents. Some neighborhoods also have a higher rate of vehicle thefts, which can result in a higher premium.
* Driving Violations
Having an accident or moving violations on your record (speeding tickets, DWI, reckless driving, etc.) put you at a higher risk for accidents and will likely mean a higher premium. Some insurance companies will penalize you for your record for as many as five years from when the incident occurred. However, keep in mind, as your record improves, your premium will get lower.
* Vehicle Type
A cheap car will cost less to insure than that status symbol SUV sitting on 24&quot; rims.
* Accident Claims
A driving record that is clean and free of accidents will hold far better for you than lots of tickets and/or accidents.
* Credit Rating
Many insurance companies view having a poor, or even no credit history as suggestive of higher risk and thus, charge you a higher premium. Monitor your credit rating free to see if you can get a better score. A better credit score will save on insurance premiums.
* Occupation
Insurers have statistically found a correlation between your occupation and risk. For instance, a newspaper delivery person is most likely a higher risk than the personal banker sitting at their desk all day.
* Education
A higher education can save on your premiums.
* Driving distance to work
* Miles driven each year
* Years of driving experience
* Business use of the vehicle
* Whether or not you currently have auto insurance and how high are your limits
* Theft protection devices (often results in discounts)
* Multiple cars and drivers (another opportunity for discounts)]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/1005/Factors_That_Affect_Your_Car_Insurance_Premium</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/1005/Factors_That_Affect_Your_Car_Insurance_Premium</guid>
			<pubDate>Sat, 04 Jul 2009 16:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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			<title>Car Insurance, Pizza Delivery, and Your Child</title>
			<description><![CDATA[Here's a &quot;pizza&quot; advice for you about car insurance. If your child plans to use the family car on his or her part-time pizza delivery job, y[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Here's a &quot;pizza&quot; advice for you about car insurance. If your child plans to use the family car on his or her part-time pizza delivery job, you'll need to check with your auto insurance provider to see if you'd be covered if your loved one were to get into a fender-bender in the line of duty.

&quot;If your child is delivering pizza as part of his part-time job and is driving your car for business then it's your personal auto insurance policy that's on the hook if there's an accident or some other incident that could result in a claim being filed,&quot; according to Don Griffin, vice president of personal lines for the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America, in Des Plaines, Ill.

Griffin's advice? &quot;Notify your auto insurer in advance that you're going to let your child use the family car to deliver food as part of his or her part-time job. The insurer will probably charge you extra, but that'll be a small price to pay when considering that if you fail to notify your insurer in advance and your child gets into an accident driving the family vehicle on the job, you may get an unpleasant surprise of no coverage when you file a claim.&quot;

Insurance.com agent Brad Vermilion said many insurers will shy away from covering your child using your family car for delivering pizza. &quot;This type of job creates a lot of risk,&quot; points out Vermilion. Uncertainty about determining insurance pricing is a key reason why auto insurers aren't necessarily enamored with the idea of insuring a vehicle used to deliver pizza.

&quot;The car is driven to a lot of places at different times of the day and night, and it would be difficult for the insurer to be able to accurately price the risk,&quot; observes Vermilion. &quot;You might have to shop around to find a company that would provide protection under that set of circumstances. That could entail purchasing a commercial auto policy, which would figure to be significantly more expensive than your private passenger automobile policy. But it'll definitely be worth the extra money. You'll have some peace of mind knowing that there will be insurance protection if junior gets in a fender-bender backing out of the driveway of one of his pizza delivery customers.&quot;

A cautionary message comes from Dave Snyder, vice president and assistant general counsel, of the American Insurance Association, in Washington, D.C. &quot;Maybe,&quot; says Snyder when asked about whether your auto insurance policy would come into play in the pizza delivery scenario. &quot;Check with your insurance agent or your insurance company about possible policy exclusions that would be applicable in this situation. There's no substitute for checking with people in the know regarding your personal insurance situation.&quot;]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/1002/Car_Insurance,_Pizza_Delivery,_and_Your_Child</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/1002/Car_Insurance,_Pizza_Delivery,_and_Your_Child</guid>
			<pubDate>Sat, 04 Jul 2009 12:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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			<title>My Credit Affects My Auto Insurance Rate?</title>
			<description><![CDATA[You probably know that banks use information in your credit report to determine if they'll extend credit. But did you know that in most states, insura[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[You probably know that banks use information in your credit report to determine if they'll extend credit. But did you know that in most states, insurance companies also consider your credit history? Good or bad, your credit history may affect which companies will sell you homeowners or auto insurance coverage and will often determine the price you'll pay.

Late credit card payments or not having a credit history at all will often affect your rates. Here are two examples:

* Last year, you were unemployed for six months. Before you could find a new job, you fell behind on several credit card payments, but you've caught up. Now your auto insurance rates are going up, even though you've never filed a claim against your policy. What's the reason?
* You've always paid your bills on time, but you pay by check or with cash instead of applying for credit&mdash;even for major purchases. Why would this be a problem?

What's the score here?
Insurance companies have always used various criteria to determine who to insure and at what rates. For example, auto insurance rates are based on your age, driving record, make and model of your car, and how many insurance claims you've filed in the past. In states where it is permitted by law, insurance companies also use credit information as an additional factor to help predict which drivers represent more risk. Insurers believe that the more stable your credit history, the less likely you are to have an accident or file a claim against your auto or homeowners insurance policy. And the more likely you are to pay your insurance premium payments.

If your credit history (along with other factors considered) suggests that you are likely to be a responsible driver, you may be offered a lower premium. But if your credit history is tarnished&mdash;or if you have little or no credit history&mdash;you may pay higher premiums for the coverage you're offered. You may even be denied coverage altogether.

How you can improve the score
If your rate changes or you are denied insurance coverage because of your credit history, the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act allows you to order a free copy of your credit report from the bureau used by the auto insurance company. If you feel the information provided to the credit bureau is incorrect, you can dispute it. Every insurance company is required to disclose whether you rate was affected by your credit report, and other consumer reports, such as your motor vehicle report.

If you've been turned down for insurance, this may feel like too little, too late. But if your credit history is affecting your ability to get auto or homeowners insurance (or the premiums you're charged for it), here are a few things you can do:

* Clean up your credit immediately. Pay at least the minimum amount due every month, consolidate high interest credit cards on a lower rate card, and don't spend beyond your means.
* If you don't have any credit, get some. Your lack of history is what's hurting you; to the insurance companies, you're an unknown quantity. Although you don't want to run up excessive debt, you do want to show that you can use credit responsibly. Student or car loans, fitness club memberships, and store credit cards are usually easy to get and can help your credit report if paid regularly and used correctly.
* Once a year, check your credit reports at AnnualCreditReport.com. This site allows you to request a free credit file disclosure once every 12 months from each of the nationwide consumer credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. The information contained in one report may not be reflected by the others, so make sure all the information is correct and dispute any errors with both the creditor and the credit bureaus involved.

For now, the use of credit reports is an industry standard. Make your credit work for you by watching it closely. In most cases, you may be rewarded with lower premiums if you do so.]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/999/My_Credit_Affects_My_Auto_Insurance_Rate?</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/999/My_Credit_Affects_My_Auto_Insurance_Rate?</guid>
			<pubDate>Sat, 04 Jul 2009 08:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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			<title>What to Do if Your Car is Stolen</title>
			<description><![CDATA[The worst has happened.

You only ran into the coffee shop for a second. You could even see your car from the shop window. But now you&rsquo;re in t[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[The worst has happened.

You only ran into the coffee shop for a second. You could even see your car from the shop window. But now you&rsquo;re in the parking lot and your car is not. It&rsquo;s gone. It&rsquo;s been stolen. What do you do now?

The experts at Safeco Insurance offer the following advice. It is advice you can follow no matter what company you use for auto insurance:

* First contact police and file a report. Make sure you get the report number. You&rsquo;ll want that later.
* Next, call your insurance company to report a claim. You&rsquo;ll want the following information handy:
o When and where you last saw your car (date, time and location)
o Year, make and model
o Vehicle Identification Number
o The police department where you filed your report
o The police report number
o And your contact information

Oncee you file a claim, it will be assigned to a representative who will review next steps with you, give you an overview of what your policy covers and answer your questions.. If you&rsquo;re entitled to a rental car, your claim rep will help with that, too.

Be Prepared
Car thefts are on the decline, so that&rsquo;s good news. The year 2008 was the fifth consecutive year of decline in motor vehicle theft, by 12.6 percent, the largest single-year percentage decrease since 1999, according the National Insurance Crime Bureau. But that&rsquo;s no comfort when it&rsquo;s your car that&rsquo;s stolen!

The first step, as always, is to ensure you have the right coverage to pay for the costs of a stolen vehicle. For example, most insurance companies wait an average of two to four weeks if the stolen car is not found before authorizing the purchase of a new car, so you could end up paying as much as $1,000 to rent a car during the interim if you don't have rental car or substitute transportation coverage, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

Most experts suggest reviewing auto policies once a year to make sure they will cover your needs if your vehicle is stolen or damaged in a crash.

Then review the list in the section above and keep that information in a safe location &ndash; somewhere other than your car. The information will come in handy for both your police and the claims reports.

Tips to Prevent Car Theft

Worried about the possibility of your car being stolen? If so, the National Insurance Crime Bureau urges you to follow a &quot;layered approach&quot; to auto theft protection by employing the following steps:

* Common Sense: Use the cheapest, most basic form of defense &hellip; lock your car and take your keys.
* Warning Device: Use a visible or audible warning device/alarm system.
* Immobilizing Device: Keep a would-be thief from staring or taking your car by using &quot;kill&quot; switches, fuel cut-offs, and smart keys. They are among the devices which are high and low tech, but extremely effective.
* Tracking Device: Consider the higher end of high tech tracking devices. These are among the newer devices available, and they can alert both you and law enforcement the moment an unauthorized user moves your vehicle.
* Passive and Active Anti-Theft Systems: Use one of these systems to help thwart a would-be thief. Passive devices automatically arm themselves when the vehicle is turned off, the ignition key removed, or a door is shut. Active devices require some independent physical action before they are set, such as pushing a button, or placing a &quot;lock&quot; over a vehicle component part. 

Other tips to consider, thanks to the Los Angeles Police Department:

* Never leave your car running unattended.
* Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked.
* Always park in high-traffic, well-lit areas.
* Never leave personal identification documents, car title, or credit cards in your vehicle.
* Leave only the ignition key with valets and mechanics.
* If you&rsquo;re purchasing a high-value vehicle, ask about an upgraded anti-theft system. Consider choosing one that shuts off the fuel supply so that a car can't be started or driven.]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/991/What_to_Do_if_Your_Car_is_Stolen</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/991/What_to_Do_if_Your_Car_is_Stolen</guid>
			<pubDate>Sat, 04 Jul 2009 04:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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			<title>Do Men Really File More Auto Insurance Claims Than Women?</title>
			<description><![CDATA[Guys, think your driving skills are exceptionally better then your female counterparts? Think again! According to the National Highway Traffic Safety[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Guys, think your driving skills are exceptionally better then your female counterparts? Think again! According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's 2004 Early Edition Report, male drivers were involved in 27,000 more fatal accidents, 432,000 more injury crashes and 1,369,000 more property-damaged incidents than female drivers - which inevitably equated to 1,828,000 more insurance claims in a single a year. Sorry guys, the ladies win.

And it's not just male drivers between the ages of 18-24 that are making these insurance claims - it's men of all ages.

&quot;By nature, men are generally more aggressive and tend to engage in riskier driving practices, such as not wearing their seat belt, speeding and driving under the influence,&quot; says Ohio insurance agent, Brad Vermillion. &quot;Men also typically drive more miles than women do over the course of their lifetime, which increases their risk of being involved in an accident and the amount of auto insurance claims they could potentially file.

But do insurance companies really pay attention to reports like the NHTSA? &quot;Insurance companies are well aware of these statistics and price their auto insurance rates accordingly,&quot; noted Vermillion. &quot;Even if men have a perfect driving record, outstanding credit score and live in a low risk area, they're still likely to pay a higher insurance premium over women.&quot;

But don't give up hope just yet. The gap between the male and female driver is starting to narrow. &quot;Over the past couple of years we have seen an increase in females driving more often and for longer periods of time. This is mainly because women are faced with juggling a full-time job, taking their children to and from extracurricular activities, caring for aging parents and running errands for their family,&quot; commented Dave Roush, CEO of Insurance.com. &quot;All of these activities increase their time in the car and elevate their stress levels&ndash; which can carry into aggressive behavior on the road.&quot; Roush went on to say that, &quot;time will only tell how this new trend will affect the price gap between men and women, but for now men are still in the lead.&quot;

If your auto insurance premium is making a large dent in your monthly budget, then logon to Insurance.com's auto comparison module. There you will find the rates of up to 12 insurance providers, helping you find the most affordable rate for your budget.]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/989/Do_Men_Really_File_More_Auto_Insurance_Claims_Than_Women?</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/989/Do_Men_Really_File_More_Auto_Insurance_Claims_Than_Women?</guid>
			<pubDate>Sat, 04 Jul 2009 00:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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			<title>MA to get new insurance options</title>
			<description><![CDATA[Insurance companies eager to compete again in the Massachusetts market

After deregulating the auto insurance industry in Massachusetts last year, a[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Insurance companies eager to compete again in the Massachusetts market

After deregulating the auto insurance industry in Massachusetts last year, a number of big name insurance companies have re-entered the state's market.
Massachusetts, until 2008, was the last state to impose regulations on prices set by auto insurance companies. Since the deregulation, Bloomberg reports that 11 insurance companies have entered the market to compete for customers' business.
The latest company to rejoin the Massachusetts offering, a major national insurer, is set to begin providing plans by early November. This large insurer has been absent from the Massachusetts competitive landscape for auto insurance for about the last 20 years.
Massachusetts Insurance Commissioner Nonnie S. Burnes applauded the news.
&quot;This filing further demonstrates that managed competition is working and Massachusetts consumers are reaping the benefits of automobile insurance reform,&quot; Burnes was quoted as saying in a Bloomberg article.
Since the deregulation and the myriad potential insurers opening up shop again in the state, consumers should have many good options available to find cheap auto insurance.

From netquote.com]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/925/MA_to_get_new_insurance_options</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/925/MA_to_get_new_insurance_options</guid>
			<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2009 20:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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			<title>Teens admit to risky driving behavior</title>
			<description><![CDATA[Over half of Texas teens admit to drinking and driving in a new survey

Teens are typically an expensive addition to their parent's auto insurance p[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Over half of Texas teens admit to drinking and driving in a new survey

Teens are typically an expensive addition to their parent's auto insurance policy.  Teen's inexperience behind the wheel and penchant for riskier behavior often lead to more accidents.

Auto insurance policies take this trend into account and charge higher premiums in the case of these newer drivers. Some teens see rates drop by achieving good grades or successfully passing a driver education course.

But a new survey says that risky behavior among young drivers may be growing increasingly common.

A major insurance company's survey of teen drivers in Texas found that 52 percent of respondents have driven a car after drinking or rode with a friend who had been consuming alcohol.

An overwhelming 88 percent say they send text messages and talk on their cell phones while operating the car - habits that many industry experts say contribute to accidents on the road.

This data is particularly alarming because the insurance company notes that &quot;summer is the deadliest time of the year for teen drivers.&quot;

From netquote.com]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/924/Teens_admit_to_risky_driving_behavior</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/924/Teens_admit_to_risky_driving_behavior</guid>
			<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2009 16:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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			<title>AAA: Millions will need auto assistance this summer</title>
			<description><![CDATA[Car maintenance and insurance coverage are important, especially as summer travel heats up

Before heading out on the first road trip of the officia[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Car maintenance and insurance coverage are important, especially as summer travel heats up

Before heading out on the first road trip of the official summer season, smart motorists will do a mental checklist for their car - confirming maintenance is up to date and their car insurance coverage is current.

But no matter how prepared a traveler may be, AAA suspects that many will be stranded roadside in the coming months.

&quot;AAA believes a combination of lower gas prices, consumers holding onto their vehicles longer and some motorists cutting regular maintenance from their budgets will drive an increase in the need for roadside assistance this summer,&quot; said company automotive vice president Marshall L. Doney. 

The company estimates that 7.3 million drivers will need roadside assistance this summer - an increase of 1.5 percent from last year. AAA also predicts that it will tow over 3 million vehicles.

Given the increased likelihood of car trouble and more autos on the road, the threat of accidents is a looming danger.

Knowing car insurance plan numbers and coverage and getting the same details from anyone involved in a crash are important steps to take in the event of an accident.

From netquote.com]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/923/AAA:_Millions_will_need_auto_assistance_this_summer</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/923/AAA:_Millions_will_need_auto_assistance_this_summer</guid>
			<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2009 12:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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			<title>Almost all Americans believe they are safe drivers, yet almost three-quarters guilty of distracted driving, finds survey from Nationwide Insurance</title>
			<description><![CDATA[90 percent of drivers believe DWD &ndash; Driving While Distracted &ndash;
will only increase in future generations
Columbus, Ohio &mdash; Nationwid[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[90 percent of drivers believe DWD &ndash; Driving While Distracted &ndash;
will only increase in future generations
Columbus, Ohio &mdash; Nationwide Insurance today released its second annual DWD (Driving While Distracted) study.

Key Findings from the Survey:
&bull; Older, But Not Wiser: DWD is a dangerous habit affecting drivers of all ages. In fact, only three
percent of those surveyed felt that the prevalence of DWD was due solely to inexperienced or teen drivers. Well above half of all generations (78 percent of Generation Y, 80 percent of Generation X and 65 percent of Baby Boomers) were guilty of participating in tasks such as talking on a cell phone or eating. While teenage drivers were slightly less guilty of talking
on their cell phones while driving at 60 percent, it does not mean that they are immune. In fact, the lower occurrence rate could be attributed to factors such as graduated drivers license laws for teens that ban cell phone use while driving, increased parental control, or the fact that they are just learning and more apt to follow the rules.

&bull; Accidents Happen: Distractions made up three of the top four reasons to why respondents have to suddenly apply the brakes while driving: daydreaming, adjusting music, and use of a cell phone/electronic device. Other drivers were cited as the other top reason.

&bull; The Riskier Road: Overall, more cell phone owners found themselves talking or texting while driving on the highways or through city streets than when they were parked, in traffic or at a light (almost 50 percent vs. almost 37 percent). However, teens were more likely to talk and text while not in motion than their older counterparts.

&bull; Curbing Behavior: When asked what would be most successful in preventing cell phone use while driving, respondents were closely split between technology that would automatically prevent devices from working in the car (43 percent) and laws banning the use of cell phones/electronic devices while driving (42 percent). However, in curbing all distractions,
respondents placed more responsibility on drivers themselves. The individual driver was listed as most responsible for curbing the behavior by 41 percent of respondents. &ldquo;When it comes to preventing distracted driving, laws, company policies and education are important, however, individual Americans &ndash; whether we&rsquo;ve had our license for four months or four decades &ndash; are in the driver&rsquo;s seat when it comes to putting the brakes on DWD,&rdquo; said Windsor.

As part of its ongoing efforts to raise awareness of the prevalence of DWD, Nationwide will be partnering with the National Safety Council to jointly host a DWD Symposium in Washington, D.C., on October 14-15, 2008. At this Symposium, Nationwide and the National Safety Council will gather thought leaders to discuss which distractions pose the greatest threat and how
distracted driving can be mitigated. 

&ldquo;The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration estimates that 115 people are killed in auto accidents each day in the U.S. With distractions being such a large cause of accidents, it&rsquo;s clear that DWD is an issue in our society that needs to be curbed now,&rdquo; said John Ulczycki, Executive Director of the Transportation Safety Group at the National Safety Council. &ldquo;We look forward to partnering with Nationwide to help curb this dangerous trend that has taken over our roadways.&rdquo;

From nationwide.com]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/922/Almost_all_Americans_believe_they_are_safe_drivers,_yet_almost_three-quarters_guilty_of_distracted_driving,_finds_survey_from_Nationwide_Insurance</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/922/Almost_all_Americans_believe_they_are_safe_drivers,_yet_almost_three-quarters_guilty_of_distracted_driving,_finds_survey_from_Nationwide_Insurance</guid>
			<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2009 08:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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			<title>Making More Informed Choices for the New Year</title>
			<description><![CDATA[The start of each year often inspires people to improve their lives. This year, the experts at Insurance.com suggest that people broaden their list of[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[The start of each year often inspires people to improve their lives. This year, the experts at Insurance.com suggest that people broaden their list of New Year resolutions by evaluating their personal life, auto and homeowners insurance needs for the coming year.

During the last year, people may have seen pay raises, higher monthly expenses or the birth of a new baby. These kinds of changes in circumstances and responsibilities can significantly effect a family's insurance requirements.

&quot;Insurance.com recommends that policyholders take a more active role in managing their insurance coverage this year,&quot; said Steven Paul, vice president at Insurance.com, the online insurance resource. &quot;They can start by understanding their policy needs, then shopping around and comparing their current rates with other providers.&quot;

The insurance resolutions are simple:

Resolution #1 - Life Insurance
Carry Enough Coverage: &quot;I will not fall short in protecting my family's future.&quot; While people do not like to dwell on the subject of life insurance, policyholders should understand how much coverage they need to protect themselves and their families. The life insurance coverage most people carry is not sufficient, which can lead to a false sense of security. Policyholders should resolve to carefully think about their family's future needs and evaluate whether their current policy would adequately protect their family in the case of misfortune.

Insurance.com offers a few guidelines to help policyholders establish the appropriate amount of coverage, beyond the need for &quot;final costs,&quot; such as funeral expenses. Regardless of which spouse is the primary breadwinner, both need to carry coverage to replace any lost income or rise in household expenses if one were to die. In addition to purchasing coverage that would provide regular income, policyholders should consider adding more protection to cover the sum of their outstanding debt, as well as adequate protection to cover six months of emergency living expenses for their family. Finally, some policyholders may choose to purchase still more protection in the amount needed to ensure a college education for all of their children.

Resolution #2 - Homeowners Insurance
Maximize Existing Coverage: &quot;I will ensure my policy fits both my property and liability needs.&quot;

Because homeowners insurance offers a broad range of protection, determining the right amount and type of coverage can be confusing. While property insurance covers the structure of a home and its contents, carrying the appropriate amount of liability coverage provides equally important protection for personal liability, medical payments, damage to someone else's property and personal injury to others. Without adequate liability insurance, homeowners could put themselves at risk for a catastrophic financial loss, if, for example, they were responsible for an accident that resulted in a lawsuit.
Liability typically provides coverage for up to $100,000 in damages. However, some homeowners may decide they need a higher level of coverage based on their individual situations.

Resolution #3 - Auto Insurance
Be an Educated Consumer: &quot;I will not renew my auto insurance passively.&quot;

Each year, many drivers receive their car insurance renewals by mail and file them away without a second glance. With auto insurance costs rising, drivers should consider a more proactive approach to renewing their policies this year. The experts at Insurance.com suggest drivers shop around and consider the following questions before renewing their auto insurance for the coming year:

* Does their current provider offer competitive rates?
* Is the underwriting insurance company financially solid and able to support claims?
* What discounts are offered by their provider and are they receiving all of the discounts for which they are eligible?
* What level of customer service does their current insurer offer? Does the company provide extended hours of operation, 24-hour claims service and knowledgeable staff?

Taking time to review insurance coverage and comparison-shop for competitive rates can help drivers save money on their insurance policies in the coming year.]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/792/Making_More_Informed_Choices_for_the_New_Year</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/792/Making_More_Informed_Choices_for_the_New_Year</guid>
			<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2009 04:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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		<item>
			<title>Insuring a Used Car</title>
			<description><![CDATA[A standard auto insurance policy is a package of different kinds of coverage. There is generally some flexibility in terms of both the types and amoun[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[A standard auto insurance policy is a package of different kinds of coverage. There is generally some flexibility in terms of both the types and amounts of coverage you select.

However, practically every state has enacted insurance laws that require drivers to carry at least some auto insurance. Many states even require that you present proof of insurance before you register a car. So the short answer to the question is that you will probably need to
insure your car, regardless of its value.

Every state requires that drivers carry liability insurance.
The liability coverage section of an auto insurance policy provides financial protection from liability claims against you when you (or certain other people) cause an accident that results in bodily injuries to other people and/or damage to their property. Every state has mandatory minimum levels of coverage in this area. The rationale behind such laws is that at-fault drivers should be able to compensate victims who suffer accident-related losses. But the required minimums in most states don't even come close to covering the costs of a serious accident. Consequently, if you wish to be adequately protected from liability claims, your liability coverage should probably exceed your state's requirements.

Other coverages are required in some states and optional in others.
Medical payments coverage and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage are two such coverages. Medical payments coverage covers medical expenses incurred by you, your family members, and your non-family passengers. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage covers losses you and others suffer as a result of an accident caused by a driver who either has no insurance or insufficient insurance. If buying these coverages is optional in your state, base your decision on your needs, circumstances, and other factors. Consult your insurance agent for more information.

Collision and comprehensive insurance is optional in virtually every state.
The collision and comprehensive section of your policy covers physical damage to your own vehicle resulting from collisions and a variety of other causes (e.g., fire, falling objects). It may also cover losses associated with theft. However, your car's value plays a big part in assessing your need for this type of coverage. It may not be cost-effective if your vehicle is worth less than $1,000 because you'll have to satisfy a deductible, and the most you'll receive (even if your car is totaled) will be its actual value (i.e., after depreciation). That's not much, especially taking into account the premiums you would have been paying for coverage.]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/791/Insuring_a_Used_Car</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/791/Insuring_a_Used_Car</guid>
			<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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		<item>
			<title>The Most Expensive States for Auto Insurance</title>
			<description><![CDATA[Good drivers out there who feel that they're paying too much for the bad drivers take heed. Good drivers in New Jersey and DC are paying through the n[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Good drivers out there who feel that they're paying too much for the bad drivers take heed. Good drivers in New Jersey and DC are paying through the nose to cover the costs of the less careful, while bad drivers in South and North Dakota live in auto insurance heaven despite their wanton ways.

That's a bit unfair to the Garden State and the Nation's Capitol-those are considered entirely urban and probably shouldn't be compared to rural states. Leaving those two alone would then give Massachusetts and New York the dubious distinction of being the most premium-heavy jurisdictions. Natives won't be surprised-all over the Union these states' streets (or at least the drivers on them) are reputed to be especially mean. When was the last time you heard of a New York cabbie pleasantly yielding the right-of-way with a wave and a smile?

Here are the most expensive states for auto insurance:

1. District of Columbia
2. New Jersey
3. Massachusetts
4. New York
5. Connecticut
6. Delaware
7. Nevada
8. Rhode Island
9. Louisiana
10. Arizona]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/790/The_Most_Expensive_States_for_Auto_Insurance</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/790/The_Most_Expensive_States_for_Auto_Insurance</guid>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2009 20:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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		<item>
			<title>Shopping for Affordable Auto Insurance</title>
			<description><![CDATA[Many insurance companies issue automobile insurance, so there should be little trouble finding a good one. There are many shopping options when lookin[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Many insurance companies issue automobile insurance, so there should be little trouble finding a good one. There are many shopping options when looking for insurance:

1.) Shop online to compare multiple companies and rates at once. You&rsquo;ll save time and probably money as well, if you take the time to shop around.

2.) Contact a local insurance agent. You may want to look for an independent agent who can explain coverage and give you quotes from several companies. The best way to find a good agent is by asking for recommendations from people you know.

3.) You can also purchase insurance from a company that sells directly to consumers rather than through agents.

Remember that your profile will be a good fit for some companies but possibly not for others. This can result in quite a big variance in rate quotes. Shopping around will help you find the policy that&rsquo;s right for you.

Compare premiums offered by various companies and look for high customer service standards and financial strength. The ability to pay a claim promptly will be important if you're ever involved in an accident. Resources for researching insurance companies include state insurance bureaus and consumer reference guides.

Finally, you should ask about discounts. You may benefit from multi-car and/or multi-driver discounts. You may receive a multiple policy discount if you purchase your auto insurance coverage through the same insurer that covers your homeowners or renters insurance. An insurer may also offer you a discount if you have a safe driving record or have completed a driver's education course.

Take the time to compare multiple companies and rates to make the decision that&rsquo;s right for you.]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/789/Shopping_for_Affordable_Auto_Insurance</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/789/Shopping_for_Affordable_Auto_Insurance</guid>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2009 16:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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		<item>
			<title>Three Life Events That Can Greatly Affect Your Auto Insurance Rate</title>
			<description><![CDATA[Getting married, becoming divorced or widowed, or embarking upon your golden years; all of these events can have a huge impact on our lives, but we be[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Getting married, becoming divorced or widowed, or embarking upon your golden years; all of these events can have a huge impact on our lives, but we bet you never thought that these changes could also influence your auto insurance rate. It`s true! And it just might have you reevaluating your auto insurance policy.

I Do
Getting married is a very exciting time in one`s life. It`s a new beginning, the merging of assets and the chance to receive a bigger discount on your auto insurance rate. That`s right: marriage can actually save you money!

Many insurance companies offer discounts for multiple cars. So by having all your automobiles under one policy, you can save money and cut down on multiple bills and policies you may have. During this time you may also want to shop around and compare the quotes and policies of other insurance companies. This will help you find the best rate and coverage for you and your new spouse.

Widowed or divorced
Being recently divorced or widowed is a very difficult and upsetting time in one`s life. Unfortunately, it is also a time when you need to reevaluate your auto insurance coverage. Depending on your situation, you may be the only full-time driver in your household, which means your rate may go up. Even worse, it may go up higher than you can afford.

However, there are things you can do to try and keep your costs down. For starters, shop around. Although your current insurance provider may have given you the best rate while you were married, that doesn`t always mean they will be able to do the same when you are single. Also, take a good look at your plan. What you once needed as a married couple may no longer apply as a single person.

With the loss of an extra income, your budget might also become tighter. If this is the case you might want to consider looking into raising your deductible or eliminating your comprehensive and collision coverage. Even though you may not want to, these changes could make a considerable difference in your auto insurance rate.

Retirement
Retirement is a perfect time to travel, spend time with loved ones and review your auto insurance coverage. Since you no longer need to drive to and from work each day, your annual mileage will more than likely drop, which can mean a nice rate decrease for you! Plus, you may also discover that you no longer need multiple cars and that one car suits you just fine. By downsizing to one car you will not only save on gas, but you will also help reduce your auto insurance rate.

Another way veteran drivers can save on auto insurance is by participating in AARP`s Mature Driving Course or AAA`s Mature Operator Program. Many insurance companies provide discounts to seasoned drivers who participate in these refresher courses. So it might be worth a try!

It never hurts to shop around
No matter what change you may be going through in life, it never hurts to do a little comparison-shopping. To help expedite your investigation, logon to Insurance.com`s auto comparison module. Here, you will be able to compare the rates of up to 12 insurance providers, helping you save time and money on your auto insurance.]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/788/Three_Life_Events_That_Can_Greatly_Affect_Your_Auto_Insurance_Rate</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/788/Three_Life_Events_That_Can_Greatly_Affect_Your_Auto_Insurance_Rate</guid>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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		<item>
			<title>How Much You Pay for Insurance Can Depend on the Type of Vehicle</title>
			<description><![CDATA[A sneak peak at one of the questions that might appear on your next quiz in Auto Insurance 101 -- Will the type of car you drive help determine how mu[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[A sneak peak at one of the questions that might appear on your next quiz in Auto Insurance 101 -- Will the type of car you drive help determine how much you pay for auto insurance? Go to the head of the class if your answer was &quot;yes.&quot;

The vehicle you drive absolutely is part of the equation on auto insurance cost, acknowledges American Insurance Association executive Dave Snyder. &quot;The make and model of your car is an insurance factor, and how the make and model performs in terms of crash and theft costs will alter the premium over time,&quot; says Snyder, AIA vice president and assistant general counsel in Washington, D.C.

Snyder says that &quot;when a car model first comes out, it's given a symbol by insurance rating organizations that predict its expected costs to insure compared to other vehicle makes and models. As experience accumulates for that make and model, the car may be moved up or down in the ratings and that would affect the cost you pay for comp and collision coverage,&quot; In addition to your type of car, auto insurers factor in your driving record, claims history, credit history, age, gender, amount and type of auto insurance purchased, where you live, just to name a few key pricing variables.

Sports cars and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) are among the type of vehicles that probably will cost you more in liability premiums. Some auto insurers rate SUVs differently based on the vehicles' histories of causing more damage to other vehicles when involved in collisions.

Russ Rader of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says crash experience and loss experience for the make and model of your vehicle help determine your insurance premium. &quot;When you're buying a vehicle, you should check crash test rating but also you should select a vehicle that has low insurance losses in real crashes because that can help lower your insurance premium, and the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) publishes a brochure that shows such losses for vehicles by make and model (http://www.hldi.org/).&quot;

In terms of passenger safety, Rader's organization recommends that you buy mid-sized or larger cars with good-crash test ratings. &quot;What matters most is survival if you get into a crash. Size and weight of a vehicle are important, and you get that with a larger car. SUVs have the advantage of size and weight in crashes with other vehicles, but they are more likely to be involved in single vehicle rollover crashes. Safety features such as side air bags can help save your life or that of a loved one in a serious side impact crash.

And having electronic stability control can help prevent a crash from happening in the first place.&quot; Rader described the electronic stability control as a new safety tool found in many 2006 foreign and domestic models. A computerized system that`s part of a car's anti-lock braking system, it operates like an automatic pilot. It helps you keep the car under control on slippery curves or in emergency maneuvers such as a sudden swerve.

HLDI executive Kim Hazelbaker focused on average loss payments per insured vehicle year from HLDI's most recent Property Damage Liability report (2003-05 models). That report covers an insured's vehicle for damage it causes to another vehicle. The numbers were $79 for passenger cars; $81 for small SUVs; and $92 for large SUVs. The aforementioned totals of $79, $81 and $92 refer to the actual portion of an insured's premiums related to damage their cars caused in accident with another vehicle, explains Hazelbaker, HLDI senior vice president, in Arlington, Va.]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/787/How_Much_You_Pay_for_Insurance_Can_Depend_on_the_Type_of_Vehicle</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/787/How_Much_You_Pay_for_Insurance_Can_Depend_on_the_Type_of_Vehicle</guid>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2009 08:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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		<item>
			<title>The Many Benefits of Auto Club Membership</title>
			<description><![CDATA[Auto club memberships (such as AAA) can have many advantages, well beyond just road services and hotel discounts. Even if you don't own a car, conside[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Auto club memberships (such as AAA) can have many advantages, well beyond just road services and hotel discounts. Even if you don't own a car, consider joining an auto club. Membership in an auto club (also known as a road and travel club) may save you money and offer other attractive perks.

Some places, such as hotels and stores, may not advertise discounts, so always ask. In fact, the savings you experience may even pay for yearly membership fee ten times over.

Emergency road services
One of the key benefits of auto club membership is free emergency roadside service. Even if you don't own a car, these services may come in handy if you're borrowing someone else's car or riding along as a passenger. Roadside services include:

* Towing up to a certain distance (e.g., 50 or 100 miles)
* Tire changing
* Jump starting
* Vehicle extrication (if stuck in a ditch, for example)
* Key retrieval (if you lock the key in the car)
* Gasoline (if you run out of gas)
* Minor mechanical repairs and adjustments

Discounts, discounts, and more discounts
Auto club members typically receive discounts (or cash back, in some cases) for a wide variety of products and services, such as:

* Lodging at hotels, motels, campgrounds, and RV resorts
* Restaurants
* Car rentals
* Airfare and train tickets
* Auto repairs and parts at certain facilities
* Admission to movie theaters, theme parks, and other types of entertainment
* Computers and Internet service
* Insurance
* Retail and outlet stores (we know one customer who saved 30% on her eyeglasses at a national eyeglasses chain, which more than paid for her auto club membership)

Insurance discounts and protection
You may already know that auto club members often receive discounts on their auto and homeowners policies. What you may not know is that other insurance products may be offered through your auto club at low cost, such as:

* Group term life insurance
* Short-term medical insurance
* Long-term care insurance
* Personal umbrella liability insurance
* Flood insurance
* Insurance for your personal valuables
* Insurance for small-business owners

Yes, there's more
Here are just some of the other perks you might enjoy as an auto club member:

* Maps, foreign travel books, and other publications
* Trip routing services
* Travel agency services and vacation planning
* Mortgage services (including lower rates and closing costs)
* Auto loan financing
* Expert advice about car maintenance and the car-buying process
* Bail bond protection and reimbursement of legal costs
* Emergency check-cashing services
* No-fee traveler's checks
* Credit card membership and services

For more information, visit the American Automobile Association&rsquo;s site at aaa.com. You can find other auto clubs online as well.]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/786/The_Many_Benefits_of_Auto_Club_Membership</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/786/The_Many_Benefits_of_Auto_Club_Membership</guid>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2009 04:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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		<item>
			<title>Car Insurance Coverage for Snowbirds</title>
			<description><![CDATA[When the weather turns cold, many car owners flock to warmer climates, like Florida, to get out of the snow and bask in the sun. In some cases, the ca[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[When the weather turns cold, many car owners flock to warmer climates, like Florida, to get out of the snow and bask in the sun. In some cases, the cars stay north, while the drivers head south and the question of how to handle an annual car insurance policy arises. Of course, everyone wants to save as much as possible when it comes to car insurance. But it's important to remember that auto insurance is not just coverage for accidents that happen while your car is being driven. Different parts of your auto insurance policy serve different purposes, so the question is really more complicated than it appears.

Important Coverages
Collision coverage, liability coverage, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and medical payments coverage are what most people think of when they hear the phrase &quot;auto insurance.&quot; Each of these coverages protects you against some aspect of a potential automobile accident. But comprehensive coverage is another important part of your auto insurance policy. Comprehensive coverage insures you against damage to your vehicle caused by events other than an accident -- for example, fire, theft, flooding, or vandalism. Any of these things can happen to your car, even when it's not being driven. The risk of certain occurrences, such as theft and vandalism, may be heightened if your vehicle will be parked outside an unoccupied house for any length of time. So, the basic answer to your question is that you might be able to suspend part of your auto insurance if your car won't be driven for an extended period of time, but it would be unwise to cancel your policy entirely.

Can You Suspend Coverage?
Now the question is whether your auto insurance company (and your state) will allow you to temporarily suspend part of your insurance coverage. Most states require that all registered vehicles carry a minimum amount of insurance coverage, so suspending your coverage may also mean dealing with the hassles of suspending or canceling your registration (and reinstating it when you return). And even if the state does have a system that allows this, your auto insurance company may or may not be willing to allow you to suspend part of your coverage temporarily. To find out for sure, you'll need to contact your insurance company and ask. One more important consideration: if you have an outstanding car loan on your vehicle, the terms of the loan probably require that you keep the car fully insured. Check your loan documentation carefully before you take steps to suspend your insurance coverage.

Maybe your insurance company is unwilling to suspend part of your coverage, and you think there's little risk that your car will be damaged or stolen from your garage while you're gone. Whatever you do, don't think that you can simply stop paying your premiums, let the insurer cancel your policy, and then purchase a new policy when you return from your winter in Florida. A canceled insurance policy will show up on your credit report, and can make it extremely difficult (and expensive) for you to get car insurance. coverage in the future.]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/785/Car_Insurance_Coverage_for_Snowbirds</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/785/Car_Insurance_Coverage_for_Snowbirds</guid>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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		<item>
			<title>Car Insurance Costs May Vary for Select SUVs</title>
			<description><![CDATA[Insurance premiums depend on several factors, including your age, sex, place of residence, and driving record; the amount and type of coverage you sel[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Insurance premiums depend on several factors, including your age, sex, place of residence, and driving record; the amount and type of coverage you select; and whether you drive your vehicle primarily for business or personal purposes. This explains why one driver might pay a different premium than another for the same make of motor vehicle.

But why might it cost you more to insure one sport utility vehicle (SUV) than another?

In addition to the factors listed above, insurance companies also:

* Consider the likelihood that a particular brand of vehicle will be stolen, vandalized, or involved in an accident
* Track the costliness of repairs
* Obtain their information by consulting various claim statistics

The Highway Loss Data Institute, for example, indexes the amount of money insurance companies have paid out (on average) for collision, injury, and theft claims for various types of motor vehicles. Therefore, the SUV that is most attractive to thieves across the country will probably be more expensive to insure than the one that is stolen least often.

In addition to these industry wide statistics, insurance companies consider their own experience with claim payouts. For instance, if one company has paid numerous claims regarding a particular make of SUV, it may charge higher insurance rates for that type of SUV than another company would. For that reason, it's wise to obtain quotes from several insurance companies before insuring your SUV.]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/784/Car_Insurance_Costs_May_Vary_for_Select_SUVs</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/784/Car_Insurance_Costs_May_Vary_for_Select_SUVs</guid>
			<pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2009 20:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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		<item>
			<title>Kids Off to College? Make Sure They're Protected</title>
			<description><![CDATA[Sending your kids off to college can be hard. All along, you've shielded them from injury and danger, but now they're on their own. Fortunately, you c[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[Sending your kids off to college can be hard. All along, you've shielded them from injury and danger, but now they're on their own. Fortunately, you can still help protect them by making sure that they have the appropriate coverage.

Health insurance coverage is a must

Health insurance coverage is just as important for your college-bound child as it was when he or she lived at home. Accidents, illnesses, unexpected emergencies, and routine conditions may require expensive medical treatment. Many colleges even require health insurance coverage as a condition of enrollment.

In most cases, you can continue to insure your child under your own family health insurance plan. Most plans will continue to cover full-time students who meet the age requirements of the policy (e.g. under age 21 or 24). If your plan is a health maintenance organization with coverage restricted to local doctors and hospitals, you may need a separate plan for your child if he or she is going out of state. You may be able to buy an individual policy from a private insurance company.

Another option is to buy health insurance directly from your child's college (if offered). Since plans vary, pay close attention to cost and coverage provided. When reviewing a plan, consider the following:

* Amount of deductible and co-payment
* Extent of coverage
* Types of services covered
* Exclusions and limitations, especially if there are pre-existing conditions
* Maximum benefit amount provided
* Flexibility regarding choice of health-care providers and specialists 

Make sure that your child is covered by auto insurance, both at home and away

When your child goes off to college, it's time to review your auto insurance coverage. Your insurance agent can tell you how your coverage and premiums will be affected.

For instance, if your child owns a car and is taking it to school, your insurance company may require that the auto insurance policy be issued in your child's name. Or, if your child borrows one of your cars for school, you'll probably want to list him or her on your insurance policy as either a principal driver or an occasional driver.

What if your child isn't taking a car to college? If you expect him or her to use your car during school breaks and summer vacations, it may be wise to list your child on your policy. But if your child won't be using the car regularly, ask your insurance agent if you're eligible for a premium discount.

Protect your child's possessions at college with homeowners or renters insurance

Like many college students, your child may be bringing a personal computer and printer, stereo, and other personal items to school. If your child commutes or lives in a dormitory (or other college housing), your homeowners insurance should provide a certain amount of protection for his or her personal possessions. But if your child lives off-campus, you'll need to purchase a renters insurance policy to cover his or her belongings. A renter's policy may also provide liability coverage if your child injures someone or causes property damage. Your insurance agent can help you determine the amount and type of coverage you need.]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/783/Kids_Off_to_College?_Make_Sure_They're_Protected</link>
			<guid>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/783/Kids_Off_to_College?_Make_Sure_They're_Protected</guid>
			<pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2009 16:30:02 -0400</pubDate>
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		<item>
			<title>Pinching Pennies? Don't Drop Car Insurance</title>
			<description><![CDATA[In these tough economic times, you may be tempted to skip car insurance coverage. Don't. We're all feeling the squeeze, but neglecting required car in[...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[In these tough economic times, you may be tempted to skip car insurance coverage. Don't. We're all feeling the squeeze, but neglecting required car insurance could be a huge mistake.

Minimum Car Insurance Laws
All states have minimum car insurance laws. You might think you can get away without it if you can just avoid accidents, but you can't be sure. Driving without car insurance is a crime. Most states have laws requiring you to show proof of insurance whenever it's asked for. Often this includes random checkpoints that will catch you whether you've done something wrong or not.

Unannounced Car Insurance Verification
Many states even have surprise car insurance inspections. In these, you have to mail in proof of insurance showing you were covered on the day they sent the letter. Once you're caught without insurance, it's too late.

Penalties for Driving Without Car Insurance
Penalties for failing to maintain car insurance can range from a fine, to a suspended license, to jail time. If you get caught, your car or license plates could be impounded until you can pay the fine. Then, you have to pay another fee to reinstate your registration. It's quite possible that all of these penalties could happen at once.

If you're in an accident, there could be strict penalties imposed on you when you try to drive later. In addition to the problems described earlier, you'll probably have to continuously maintain a bond or other proof of car insurance. If this bond expires or is cancelled, you'll be subject to penalties again. States such as Ohio require you to keep this bond on file with an Ohio insurance company&mdash;even if you move out of state.

Car Insurance Protects You
Also, keep in mind that car insurance is there to protect you. If you get in a car accident and cause damage to someone or their property, you'll have to pay whatever your car insurance doesn't cover. You can either pay a little now or a lot later.

Above all, if you think car insurance is expensive now, just try getting it after being caught without insurance. You'll be in a new high risk category, and you'll be expected to pay a lot even though you're not a bad driver. Rates are on the rise around the nation, but car insurance is not optional. It's illegal to drive without car insurance, and it won't save you money.

Get Car Insurance
If you're having trouble figuring out how to get cheap car insurance, you can get a free online car insurance quote from Insurance.com. Or call one of our licensed agents, who can help you figure out how to save money.]]></content:encoded>			<link>http://www.autoinsuranceselect.com/article/782/Pinching_Pennies?_Don't_Drop_Car_Insurance</link>
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			<pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2009 12:30:01 -0400</pubDate>
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