So you’ve decided to buy a new set of wheels – congratulations! Before you head to the dealership though, you need to make sure you’ve got auto insurance lined up. Getting insurance before you buy your car is actually pretty easy and will save you from driving off the lot only to find your new vehicle isn’t insured. Here are the steps to get auto insurance before you buy your ride. If your vehicle is being financed the dealership will not allow you to drive off the lot until you purchase full coverage insurance.
Can I Get Auto Insurance Before Buying a Car
Are you in the market for a new car and wondering if you need auto insurance before buying a car? The answer is yes. In fact, not having auto insurance before buying a car can put you at risk financially and legally. Additionally, the dealership will not allow you to drive off the lot without full coverage auto insurance if the vehicle is financed. Luckily, Illinois Drivers Insurance can provide you with the coverage you need.
Illinois Drivers Insurance can offer you options for coverage before even choosing a new car. This way, you can make an informed decision about what type of car to buy based on the associated insurance costs. We understand that each customer has unique insurance needs, so our team will work with you to determine the best coverage options for your lifestyle and budget.
Why Should I Get Auto Insurance Before Buying a Car?
Getting insurance ahead of time simply provides peace of mind and ensures there are no delays or hang-ups once you do find the right set of wheels. Here’s why:
- Having auto insurance is a legal requirement in most states. Driving without insurance can result in hefty fines, license suspension. So, if you plan on test driving cars or borrowing a friend’s vehicle, you’ll need to have coverage in place.
- You’ll know exactly how much insurance will cost you each month, so there won’t be any surprises after you buy your new wheels. This allows you to budget properly and pick a car you can actually afford to insure.
- Pre-approved insurance means you can head to the dealership ready to buy, knowing you’ve already got coverage lined up. No more having to arrange insurance on the spot or worrying you won’t be able to drive your new car off the lot.
- It gives you leverage to potentially negotiate a lower price on your vehicle. Dealers may be willing to cut you a better deal if they know you’re a serious, ready-to-buy customer with financing and insurance already in place.
How to Get Auto Insurance Quotes Without Owning a Vehicle
So you’ve got your eye on a sweet new ride, but you know you need insurance before you can drive it off the lot. No problem, you can get auto insurance quotes even without owning a vehicle yet. Here’s how:
- Select the details of the car you intend to buy. Note the make, model, year, trim level, and optional features so you can provide info for insurance quotes.
- Gather information about the car like the VIN, mileage, safety ratings, and current value. Check vehicle history reports to determine the condition and any past accidents. Insurance companies will want these details.
- Submit the information from Steps 1 and 2 to Illinois Drivers Insurance to get quotes. Illinoisdrivers.com allows you to get quotes on their websites or over the phone using the details of a vehicle you don’t own yet.
- Compare the quotes and coverage options to find a policy in your budget with the protection you need. Then make your first payment to activate the policy in preparation for buying your new car.
What Information You’ll Need to Provide for a Quote
To get an auto insurance quote before buying a car, you’ll need to provide some basic information to Illinois Drivers Insurance. Providing complete and accurate information upfront will allow Illinois Drivers Insurance to give you competitive quotes so you can find an affordable policy before you head to the dealership.
Personal Information
You’ll need to give your full legal name, address, date of birth, and contact details like phone number and email address. Some companies may also ask for your Social Security number to verify your identity and check your credit score.
Driver’s License Details
The Illinois Drivers Insurance will need to know if you have a valid driver’s license and your driving history. Be prepared to provide your license number, the state it’s issued in, and information on any accidents or traffic violations from the past 3-5 years. A clean driving record will help you get a lower rate.
Vehicle Information
Even though you don’t own a car yet, you’ll still need to provide details on the type of vehicle you intend to buy so the insurance company can give you an accurate quote. Things like the make, model, year, trim level, and optional safety features will all affect your premium. An older car with minimum coverage will cost less to insure than a brand new luxury vehicle. Getting the VIN number of the vehicle is most helpful.
Coverage Options
You’ll need to choose what types of coverage you want, like liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured motorist protection. The more coverage you opt for, the higher your premium will be. But having adequate coverage is important to protect you financially in the event of an accident. If the vehicle is financed you will be required to carry full coverage auto insurance.
Comparing Auto Insurance Quotes to Find the Best Deal
Comparing multiple auto insurance quotes is the best way to find an affordable policy that meets your needs. Here are some tips to help you compare quotes and choose a provider:
- Check your current policy details: Make sure you have information on your current coverage limits, deductibles, and premiums handy before getting new quotes.
- Get quotes from multiple companies: Illinois Drivers Insurance will compare at least 15 different companies to find you the best deal.
- Compare more than just price: While price is important, also consider the company’s customer service, claims process, and financial stability. The cheapest option may end up costing you more in the long run.
- Adjust coverage to your needs: You may be able to lower your premium by increasing deductibles or dropping unnecessary coverage like roadside assistance or rental car reimbursement. But don’t sacrifice important coverage to save a few bucks.
- Ask about discounts: Inquire about ways to lower your rate like bundling with other policies, safe driver discounts, student discounts, anti-theft device discounts or paying in full upfront. Every little bit helps.
Secure Your Auto Insurance
Once you’ve decided on the insurance provider and coverage, purchase your policy. You can do this through our website Illinoisdrivers.com , over the phone, or in person. Pay the initial premium to activate your coverage before driving your new vehicle.
Make copies of your insurance card, policy, and proof of insurance to keep in your vehicle. Also keep records of your coverage details, limits, deductibles, and premium payments in case you need them for any reason.
Once You Buy a Car, Update Your Policy With the Vehicle Details
Once you’ve purchased your new vehicle, it’s important to update your auto insurance policy with the details. Your premiums may rise or decline depending on the type of car you bought.
Updating your auto insurance policy with details about your new vehicle helps ensure you have the proper coverage in place. Review all options with your insurance agent to find the right policy for your needs and budget. Protecting your investment is worth the time to explore available coverage and make any necessary changes or additions.
Insure First, Drive Later: Secure Auto Insurance with Illinois Drivers Insurance
So there you have it, a few easy steps to get auto insurance before you even have a car to insure. Once you find a policy and company you like, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re all set to hit the road as soon as you find the perfect new set of wheels.
Illinois Drivers Insurance website today to find the perfect auto insurance policy that will protect your vehicle and yourself as a driver. We believe that getting auto insurance doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. With some advance planning and by following these tips, you’ll be riding in no time with complete coverage and confidence. The open road awaits!