Common Myths about Auto Insurance

Driving a vehicle requires that you have auto insurance. If you’re new to driving, you may be confused by misconceptions you’ve heard about auto coverage. Before purchasing a policy, you need to separate auto insurance facts from myths you may have heard from fellow drivers. That’s what Versatile Insurance Planners in San Antonio, TX has done with this article.

Myth: If a friend crashes your vehicle, his insurer will cover the damage.

Auto insurance follows the car, not the driver. If you loan your car to a friend, and he has an accident, your insurer is responsible for damages. For this reason, it’s best to limit the times you loan your vehicle and only to safe drivers.

Myth: Red vehicles are more expensive to insure.

The color of your vehicle has no bearing on insurance costs. However, Your insurance company will take your car’s make, model, and year into account when considering your premium, age, driving experience, and lifestyle.

Myth: Minimum auto coverage is enough.

Minimum auto coverage may satisfy the legal requirements for driving in your state, but it won’t cover your injuries or damage to your vehicle if you’re involved in an accident. If you’ve taken out a loan for your car, your lender may require more than minimum liability coverage. We also recommend purchasing more than minimum liability coverage to protect your assets from serious auto accidents you may cause.

Myth: Older drivers pay more for auto coverage.

On the contrary, older, more experienced drivers are often eligible for insurance discounts, especially if they’re retired and have good driving records.

Myth: Your auto insurer can drop you at any time.

Unless you’ve committed fraud or stopped paying for your policy, your insurer can’t cancel your coverage before its term ends.

Contact Versatile Insurance Planners in San Antonio, TX for quality auto coverage you can trust.

Get More Miles Out of Your Car With These Maintenance Tips

Everyone wants to get more mileage out of their gas these days. Did you know that your car maintenance habits can greatly impact your mileage? Here at Versatile Insurance Planners, serving San Antonio, TX, and the surrounding areas, we want to help you make the most of vehicle ownership. Keep reading to learn more. 

Stay Up To Date On Oil Changes

Keeping your oil changed regularly will have a significant impact on gas mileage. When your oil is changed regularly, every part of your engine will run more efficiently. An efficiently running engine will use less gas daily. 

Keep Tires Properly Inflated

The air pressure in your tires can also significantly impact your gas mileage. When properly inflated to the recommended PSI, tires can carry the vehicle’s weight more evenly. Over time, this will be reflected in the gas mileage. 

Address Engine Problems Quickly 

If your vehicle is experiencing any engine problems, you should have these issues looked at quickly. Allowing an engine problem to go unrepaired will make the engine work harder and harder over time. This will ultimately use more and more gas to take you the same distance. 

Keep Out Clutter 

Keeping your car cleaned out can also affect gas mileage. If you allow a lot of clutter to build up in your vehicle, bed, or truck, the additional weight will affect gas mileage. Keep your vehicle clean to save on gas. 

To learn about auto insurance, please get in touch with us at Versatile Insurance Planners serving San Antonio, TX, and the surrounding areas. We will be happy to answer your questions today. 

The difference between collision and comprehensive insurance

Regarding car insurance, there are two main types of coverage: collision and comprehensive. Collision insurance covers damage to your car when you hit another object, like a tree or another vehicle. Comprehensive insurance covers damage to your car from other sources, like vandalism, theft, or a natural disaster.

Both types of insurance are important for protecting your car, but they offer different levels of protection. Here’s a look at the difference between the two types of coverage and when you might want to choose one over the other.

One significant difference between collision and comprehensive insurance is that collision coverage only covers damage caused by a collision with another object. At the same time, comprehensive insurance also covers damage from other sources. For example, if your car is damaged in a fire or stolen by a thief, you typically file a claim with your comprehensive insurer to cover the repairs or replacement.

Additionally, collision insurance typically costs more than comprehensive coverage, as it provides more extensive protection. However, if you are involved in an accident and your car is declared a total loss, your comprehensive coverage may help cover the cost of replacing your vehicle.

Ultimately, choosing between collision and comprehensive insurance will depend on your needs and driving habits. If you are primarily concerned with protecting your car from damage caused by collisions, then collision coverage is a good option. On the other hand, if you also want to be protected from damages from natural disasters and theft, comprehensive insurance may be a better choice.

Call us at Versatile Insurance Planners today if you have any questions about your coverage. We proudly serve the San Antonio, TX area.

Does Auto Insurance Cover Vehicle Damage Caused By a Flood?

Having the right insurance policies in place can help to cover you in case the unexpected happens. While no one wants a flood to happen, floods can happen for several reasons. If a flood occurs in your town, you may wonder if your auto insurance policy covers vehicle damage caused by a flood. Versatile Insurance Planners, serving the greater San Antonio, TX area, wants to help you understand the answer to this question. 

Does Auto Insurance Cover Vehicle Damage Caused By a Flood?

Your auto insurance policy may cover vehicle damage caused by a flood. A comprehensive insurance policy is key to ensuring flood damage will be covered. If you only have minimum insurance, your automobile is not covered by damage, including flooding. If you carry comprehensive insurance, your vehicle will be covered. 

What Else Should I Know? 

If a flood damages your car, there is a good chance that your car will be totaled. Flooding can cause a lot of damage to your vehicle, including damage to the engine and damage to the interior of your car. Flooding can also cause a car to rust or can lead to mold growth in the vehicle. As such, if your car was involved in a flood, you may want to think about the value of your vehicle, as there is a good chance the car will be totaled. 

The best way to ensure that your vehicle is fully protected from unexpected events, including flooding, is to have the right insurance policies in place. Here at Versatile Insurance Planners, serving the greater San Antonio, TX area, we can work with you to ensure you have the right policies in place. Call us today to discuss your auto insurance needs. 

An Unexpected Accident Can Disrupt Your Life and Finances – Don’t Let it Happen

Do you live in San Antonio, TX? Versatile Insurance Planners can explain why automobile insurance is a must. New Hampshire and Virginia are the only two states in the country where it is not required. While it can play havoc with your life and finances, there are other reasons why it is so important.

  • By Texas law, drivers are required to show proof they can pay for accidents they cause. If you get stopped by a policeman or highway patrolman, you could get jail time or at least a hefty fine. Law enforcement is not very forgiving of an uninsured driver.
  • Liability insurance will pay for repairs or replacement of the other driver’s vehicle or damaged property and their medical expenses if you are at fault.
  • You will be compensated if you are injured, or another driver damages your car.
  • Your car will be repaired regardless of who is at fault.
    • Comprehensive insurance covers damage resulting from theft, floods, vandalism, falling trees, animal encounters, and more.
    • Collision insurance will cover the cost of replacing or repairing your vehicle if you cause an accident or if the other driver has no insurance.
  • If an accident is your fault, liability insurance will protect your assets. With no insurance, it is possible to lose your home.
  • For any passengers in your vehicle that may be injured, insurance will cover their medical bills if you are found to be at fault.
  • Finally, automobile insurance can provide peace of mind as it protects you and your financial future.

It is important to note that in an insured driver accident, everyone suffers – not just the uninsured driver. The only winners in an uninsured motorist claim are the attorneys.

If you want the assurance you will come out of a potential encounter with another vehicle intact, the insurance professionals at Versatile Insurance Planners in San Antonio can explain how. Contact them today.

Texas auto insurance: what you need to know

San Antonio, TX drivers can rely on Versatile Insurance Planners for their insurance needs. If you’re getting ready to buy a car or want to take a look at the available options, we can help. Reach out to our team today and set up an appointment to find out more.

Auto insurance information for Texas drivers

Finding the right insurance for your unique needs can be a challenge. But, once you get a better feel for what your needs are and how insurance can help meet them, the process becomes a lot less stressful. The main considerations that you will need to make are:

  • Amount of coverage – the value of your car determines this, how much medical expense coverage you want to have, and how much liability protection you want to carry.
  • Deductible – typically, the higher your deductible, the lower your premiums, and vice versa. Budgetary concerns can often drive these decisions.
  • Features and add-ons – if you want to include features like roadside assistance or car rental reimbursement, you will want to know how that will affect your premiums. 

Once you have narrowed down your needs, it becomes easier to review the policy options that are right for you. If you are feeling overwhelmed, it can help to talk to a local agent who can help guide you through the process. It’s worth the time to find the right policy!

Find out more today!

Versatile Insurance Planners is here to help the greater San Antonio, TX area with all of its insurance needs. If you have questions about auto insurance, we are here to answer them! Give us a call today and find out more!

What are the Minimum Automobile Insurance Requirements in Texas?

In Texas, drivers must carry auto insurance with property damage and bodily injury protection. Drivers who cause an accident must bear financial responsibility for any damages in the event of a car accident. In most cases, insurance providers pay for the cost of damages caused by the holder of the policy.

To learn more about the minimum coverage requirements in San Antonio, TX, contact our team at Versatile Insurance Planners today.

Texas Minimum Liability Insurance Requirements

The minimum amount of insurance drivers must carry in Texas is $30,000 for bodily injury, $60,000 for bodily injury for two or more people, and $25,000 for property damage for each accident. "At fault" drivers must have these coverage limits to operate a motor vehicle on Texas roadways.

Additionally, drivers must carry proof of insurance in their vehicles. Law enforcement will verify that all drivers have adequate insurance during a traffic stop. If drivers don’t carry their proof of insurance, they’re subject to penalties and fines (especially if an automobile accident occurs).

Drivers can also choose the coverage that offers personal injury protection for a liability insurance policy. However, this coverage is not a requirement. Since liability policies only cover damage and medical expenses of those other than at-fault drivers, a personal injury protection policy would cover some of the at-fault driver’s expenses. Additionally, drivers can add collision coverage to help pay for vehicle damages.

Contact us today at Versatile Insurance Planners in San Antonio, TX, so we can help you learn more about your minimum liability insurance coverage options and the legal requirements for "at fault" drivers.

4 things you should always ask your auto insurance agent

Most people let the premium rates influence their decision when choosing an auto insurance policy. This is, however, not advisable as it could lead to you being underinsured thus prone to dangers and accidents on the road just to cut costs. At Versatile Insurance Planners serving San Antonio, TX, insurance agents guide you on balancing adequate coverage and an affordable policy for your car.

Things to ask your auto insurance agent

The following are some of the questions you should ask your auto insurance representative.

Is it the ideal coverage?

Depending on the state, your agent will guide you on the suitable coverages for your car. You’ll need minimum liability coverage for any accident-related issues and to cover the legal fee. If need be, your agent should recommend ideal additional coverage plans depending on your personal needs.

What is covered In case of an accident?

You need the right coverage to get all the benefits of auto insurance after an accident. Ask your insurance representative which policy covers what. Ask about optional coverages like rental reimbursement and roadside assistance and if they are necessary for you. 

Am I eligible for discounts?

Ask your auto insurance agent whether you qualify for a multi-policy discount and whether you have options to minimize the premiums. Find out about your premiums and deductibles so that if you ever file for a claim, the out-of-pocket costs will be within your budget.

Do I need an umbrella policy?

Depending on your assets and personal preferences, you may require protection above and beyond your regular policy coverage. Ask your insurance agent for comprehensive coverage, uninsured and underinsured motorist protection, and collision coverage. There is an option for excess liability coverage for people with valuable personal assets.

An insurance agent is an indispensable resource, so ensure you have the best one to help answer some of your questions regarding the policy. Consult Versatile Insurance Planners serving San Antonio, TX for all your auto insurance needs.

Auto Insurance Coverage Options in Texas

The Versatile Insurance Planners in the San Antonio, TX area want people to know all about the auto insurance options that are available in Texas as well as the auto insurance requirements set forth by the state.

In Texas, each driver must have at least an auto liability insurance policy in place that will cover a minimum amount of bodily injury and property damage claims if you are involved in an accident that is determined to be your fault.

It is also a great idea to have underinsured and uninsured coverage in place in the event you are involved in a crash that is deemed to be the fault of the other driver and that person either has no insurance at all or very little and cannot cover the damages to your vehicle or the medical bills for you and your passengers for injuries sustained in the crash.

Other Auto Insurance Coverage Options

There are several other types of auto insurance you can choose from, including comprehensive insurance. This type of insurance will pay for any damage to your auto if it is damaged or destroyed a fire, vandalism, or a natural disaster. It will also replace your vehicle if it is stolen. If you have an active loan for your vehicle, your lender or bank may require you to have this type of coverage in place to protect the investment that has been made in your vehicle when they loaned you the money to purchase it.

Collision insurance is another type of coverage you can obtain. This type of coverage will help pay for damages that occur if you are involved in a collision with another vehicle or an object. For example, if you back your vehicle into someone’s garage door and damage it, this type of coverage will help pay for any damage to the garage door as well as the damage to your vehicle.

Call For a Quote Today!

To create the best auto insurance coverage for you and your situation, you should enlist the help of an experienced auto insurance agent to secure your auto insurance policy. The agents at the Versatile Insurance Planners in San Antonio, TX are ready to assist you with all of your auto insurance needs. Call for a quote and appointment today to get your policy started.

4 Auto Insurance Add-ons To Consider

When you buy auto insurance from Versatile Insurance Planners of San Antonio, TX, you hope that it covers every aspect of risks facing your car. Unfortunately, car insurance is broad. As such, it has numerous coverages to consider depending on your situation and budget. For this reason, if you want to boost your auto insurance coverage, here are four add-ons to put your money on. 

Zero depreciation add-on

If your car were involved in an accident today, you would receive compensation less the depreciation factor. This means you have to fork out the depreciation amount from your pocket. However, you can buy zero depreciation coverage to cushion you from depreciation. 

Roadside assistance coverage

Assume your car has broken down far away from home. What would you do? Call friends and relatives? You might do that, but they may not be in a position to help. For these situations, you need roadside assistance coverage to bail you out when your car stalls miles away from home. This coverage provides services like towing, gas delivery, jumpstarting, and other minor repairs.

Engine protect add-on

If you live in an area prone to flooding or waterlogging, this endorsement is suitable for you. While collision or comprehensive coverages may cover your engine against perils like accidents and falling objects, these coverages may not help for calamities like flooding, which fall under consequential loss. And that’s when you need an engine to protect the rider to save the day.

Consumables add-on

Your car uses several consumables, including oils, bolts, pipes, filters, and so on. Unfortunately, these consumables are not covered by the standard auto insurance policy during repairs. Luckily, if you have consumables coverage, your insurance pays for the consumable costs.

Car insurance in San Antonio, TX

Standard car insurance is good, but it’s not enough. That you said, you need to strengthen your car insurance policy with add-ons depending on your situation. If you are in San Antonio, TX and its environs, contact Versatile Insurance Planners for an affordable quote.