Alabama has a variety of landscapes, cultures, and atmospheres throughout the state. From large cities to farming communities, Alabama auto insurance policies are designed to meet the unique needs of individuals based on their driving purposes and insurance needs. By understanding types of coverage, shopping around, and finding discounts, you can find affordable Alabama auto insurance that will protect you should you be involved in an accident.

Beyond the legal requirements, Alabama drivers have good reason to be concerned about safe driving on the road. According to a report released by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), as of 2008 our state ranks the third highest for repeat offenders of driving while intoxicated. Specifically, of the 4.6 million residents in Alabama about 22,000 have more that five Driving Under the Influence (DUI) convictions. So even if you are the safest of drivers, there is good reason to be fully covered.

Types of Alabama Auto Insurance Coverage

The types of coverage available through Alabama auto insurance agencies can be confusing if you don’t have a clear understanding of what they mean and how they help you in an accident. First of all, you need to understand what is required by Alabama law so that, at the very least, you are meeting legal requirements. Meeting legal requirements allows you to keep your driver’s license and gives you the right to drive.

Alabama follows a tort system which means someone must be found at fault in an accident. The at fault individual covers all damages through their insurance policy. Surprisingly, Alabama has some of the fewest requirements of any state. This makes insurance rates in Alabama over $300 per year less than the national average; however, less coverage can be more costly in the long run.

Alabama requires drivers to carry Bodily Injury Liability in the amount of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. The only other required coverage is $25,000 in Property Damage Liability. Basically put, Bodily Injury Liability and Property Damage Liability cover damage you cause to another person or someone else’s property.

Beyond what is required by law, there are other types of coverage that are important to consider. If you have a loan out on your vehicle your lien holder may require that you carry comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive covers you in almost every situation including accidents, theft, floods, blizzards, tornadoes, hurricanes, vandalism, and other acts of God. Lien holders usually require this type of coverage so that they don’t lose money should something happen to your vehicle.

Another type of coverage to consider is collision insurance. This is a step below the coverage you get with a comprehensive plan. Collision insurance protects against collisions with the road, people, objects, or other vehicles. It covers the driver, even if the driver is not at fault. Collision also provides towing, salvage, and storage of a damaged vehicle. In some cases, it will cover the cost of a rental vehicle while your vehicle is repaired.

Shopping Around for Alabama Auto Insurance

Shopping around for Alabama car insurance is one of the best ways to find a good deal. Each Alabama auto insurance company differs on how they set prices for a premium. Most companies consider car type, age of the drivers, driving history, and where the driver lives. All of these factors combined equal a risk factor. The higher your risk factor, the higher your premium will be. Since each company determines risk differently, it is important to shop around. Premium prices can vary greatly from company to company.

One easy way to shop around is via the Internet. With access to most insurance website around the clock, potential buyers can request quotes online. Most companies have an online quote system on their websites. Quotes can be instant or may take a few hours and may be sent to you via e-mail. When you sit down at the computer to get some online quotes, be sure to have all pertinent information ready so you can save time.

If you prefer talking with someone about your insurance needs, most insurance companies have toll free numbers either on their website or in the phone book. You can call and explain your insurance needs and answer a few questions. After this, you will receive a quote and you can compare it with other quotes you have received.

Another great way to find a company is to ask friends, family, and co-workers for references. If someone is happy with their insurance company, they can tell you how well the company responds to claims, how customer service orientated the company is, as well as what types of rates they receive. Knowing that someone you trust is recommending a company can give you peace of mind.

Instead of going to several different sites for quotes, you can use the comparison tool on this page right now to compare Alabama auto insurance rates and quotes from top companies. Seeing these side by side will allow you to compare what each company has to offer. Keep in mind that cheaper is always better. Be sure you have the coverage you need at a price you can afford.

Alabama Auto Insurance Discounts

One way to save money on AL auto insurance is to get discounts. Every insurer offers discounts that minimize their risk of covering you, and your cost. Some companies will be up front with their discounts while others will only offer discounts, if you ask about them. Be sure to ask every company you are getting a quote from what discounts they offer to see if you qualify.

Some of the most popular discounts are based on being a safe driver. If you have a clean driving record, which means you haven’t had any violations over the last five years, you can get a safe driver discount. Also, if you have taken a defensive driving course or a driver safety class, you will qualify for an additional discount.

For students who maintain a certain GPA, student driver discounts are available from most companies. If you are a senior citizen with a clean driving record, you may also qualify for a discount. The distance you drive your vehicle may also provide you a discount. The short distance you drive, the lower your rates will be since there is less likelihood of an accident.

As far as your vehicle is concerned, if you vehicle comes with a safety device such as a car alarm, key ring alarm, or coded key, you can get a safety discount. If your car doesn’t come with one of these devices, you can purchase one yourself. The cost of purchasing one of these devices is worth it when you consider the monthly premium savings you will receive through this kind of discount. Also, choosing a vehicle that is easy to repair and replacement parts are easy to purchase will result in another discount.

Compare Alabama Auto Insurance Quotes Online!

Shopping for Alabama auto insurance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. If you understand the different types of coverage available, get at the very least the amount required by law, shop around, compare prices, and ask for discounts you will be able to find quality affordable Alabama auto insurance coverage. Remember to use the comparison tool on this page right now to compare rates and quotes from top companies and start saving today!