Cheap Alabama Auto Insurance Quotes
People looking for cheap Alabama auto insurance may find it useful to do a little homework – learn about the options available, know the average rates, and check out the various companies in AL. Doing so will ensure that you buy solid but affordable protection for yourself.
The first thing to learn is the local auto insurance laws.
Alabama is a Tort state, which requires that each motorist carries a predefined amount of auto liability insurance. If the policyholder causes an accident, their insurance will pay for the loss they caused up to the liability limit on their policy. Currently, Alabama requires that you carry 25/50/25 (in thousands) of liability auto insurance. The first number is for injury liability per person, the second – for the same in total, and the third – for property damage liability in total. If you cause more losses than what your insurance can pay for, you would be liable to pay the rest yourself.
It's important to remember that liability is just one coverage type out of almost a dozen that are available in Alabama and the rest of the U.S. As you understand, this coverage is limited in what it covers. That is why many drivers seek out other cheap auto insurance quotes as well, even if those are optional in their state. Here’s what’s purchased most often in Alabama: PIP (covers your personal injuries) and comprehensive/collision (these pay for damages to your vehicle). PIP is required in 16 states in the U.S., but is optional in AL. Comp/collision is not required in any state, but it is often required by automobile loan/lease providers.
The next point is to learn about cheap auto insurance quotes, so that you see if the rate quoted to you is fair - or if you should keep looking. In 2010, the average annual automobile insurance rate for Alabama is a bit below $1,300. This number is quite low for the U.S., but we need to remember that the average cost of living in AL in also quite low – Alabama is the 9th cheapest state to live in. So, if you request a car insurance quote and it is way above $1,300, you need to keep looking. The premium rate will depend on factors like your age, exact location, vehicle, mileage, years of driving, driving record, credit score, and others. Unfortunately, people with certain factors will have to pay much more than others. In general, if you have a clean driving record and a cheaper car, you shouldn’t have to pay too much.
Finally, remember that insurance companies are quite dissimilar. Some of them are much better than others. It’s an excellent idea to research into the companies that you’re considering. See what others are saying about them and check their ratings online. You should also visit the Alabama Department of Insurance website for more in-depth information.