Beyond Minimum Coverage: Why You Need More Auto Insurance in Ohio
In Ohio, like many states, drivers are required to carry car insurance. But what most people don't realize is that the state's minimum liability limits may not be enough to protect them financially in the event of an accident. It is importnat to understand  the dangers of minimum coverage and why talking to a trusted insurance agent is crucial for getting the right protection for your needs.
The Importance of Having the Right Auto Insurance CoverageHaving the right auto insurance coverage isn't just about complying with the law; it's about safeguarding your financial future. Imagine this: you're involved in an accident and are responsible for damages. Minimum coverage might seem like a budget-friendly option now, but it could leave you financially devastated later.

What Happens When Your Auto Insurance Isn't Enough?
Let's break down the pitfalls of minimum coverage in Ohio:

• Bodily Injury Liability: The state minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident sounds reasonable, but what if a serious injury requires extensive medical care? A single medical bill, especially one involving air transport, could easily surpass this limit.
• Property Damage Liability: With expensive cars and new technology on the road today, $25,000 in property damage coverage might not be enough to cover the cost of repairs if you damage another vehicle.

Don't Let a Car Accident Wipe You Out Financially
In the unfortunate event of an accident with inadequate coverage, you could face:

• Financial Responsibility for Remaining Costs: Any damages exceeding your policy limits become your personal responsibility. This could mean dipping into savings, taking on debt, or even losing assets.
• Lawsuits and Lost Wages: The injured party could sue you for additional damages beyond what your insurance covers. Legal fees and potential lost wages due to the accident could add further financial strain.

How Much Auto Insurance Do I Need?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer, but a trusted insurance agent can help you assess your risk factors and determine the right coverage amounts for your situation. Consider:

• The Value of Your Vehicle: Higher property damage liability limits ensure you're covered if you damage a more expensive car.
• Your Assets: If you have significant assets like a home, increased coverage protects them from potential lawsuits.
• Your Driving Habits: Even with a good driving record, consider higher bodily injury liability limits. Commuting frequently or driving in high traffic areas can increase your risk of being involved in an accident.

The Importance of Talking to a Trusted Insurance Agent
Don't gamble with your financial security! A trusted insurance agent can explain different coverage options beyond minimum liability, such as:

• Higher Bodily Injury and Property Damage Limits: Gain greater peace of mind knowing you're financially protected in case of a serious accident.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM): Protects you if the driver who hits you doesn't have insurance or doesn't have enough coverage.
• An Umbrella Policy: Consider an umbrella policy for an extra layer of protection. This additional insurance kicks in when your underlying policy limits (like your auto or homeowners insurance) are exhausted.

While safe driving habits can potentially lead you to qualify for discounts on your premium, it's important to remember that even the most cautious driver can be involved in an accident. Unexpected events happen on the road, and minimum coverage simply doesn't offer enough protection in many situations.

Get a personalized quote today and ensure you have the right auto insurance coverage to navigate the road with confidence.
#OhioAutoInsurance #AutoInsuranceAwareness #AVInsGroup

Planning to Rent a Vehicle for Personal Use...Do you need to purchase their insurance, or will your insurance extend to the rental vehicle?

​This depends on several factors. 

• What type of vehicle are you renting. ? A personal passenger vehicle like a car or minivan, or a box truck moving vehicle? A personal vehicle in most cases would be covered if it is a temporary replacement of your covered vehicle.  Typical insurance policies would cover a rented personal passenger type vehicle for the same coverage  that has  been purchased on your personal policy.  Therefore, you would have the same liability limit and  physical damage coverage deductibles  on the rental vehicle that exists on your personal vehicle.  If you  only carry liability coverage on your policy your policy  probably will not cover physical damage to a rental car as you have not purchased that coverage on your policy.

• However, a moving truck (box truck) is a commercial vehicle and is typically excluded from coverage on a personal auto policy.  Some large pickup trucks might be excluded as well depending on their weight and how the policy is worded.

Do you carry physical damage coverage on your personal vehicle or only liability coverage? 

• If you  only carry liability coverage on your policy, it most likely will not cover physical damage to a rental car, as you have not purchased that coverage on your policy.

Another factor to consider when determining whether to purchase the rental companies insurance is your deductible. 

• If you purchase the rental companies  insurance  you  most likely  will not have to pay a deductible in the event of a loss.   If you need to set up the claim on your insurance any damage to the rental vehicle would  have the same deductible as carried  on your policy and you would be responsible for paying it.  You also have to recognize that a claim on your policy  could make more of an impact on  your future rates than  if  the rental company  pays the claim.  Although, if you are at fault your insurance rates will reflect any violations or accidents that appear on your Motor Vehicle Record.   

Where are you driving the rental car?

• If you are renting a vehicle and driving in a location that is not covered by your personal auto policy the coverage would not extend.  If you are planning to drive anywhere out of the United States it is essential that you speak with your insurance agent to find out if there is coverage.

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What insurance company is your insurance with?

• Although most insurance policies are developed from similar forms, each insurance company has written their policy independently.  A coverage that is included with one company may not be given with the policy from another insurance carrier.

The best bet anytime you are concerned about coverage  is to consult your agent. This is another example of how a local agent can be of great value to the policyholder. They can explain whether your policy will or will not cover the rented vehicle.