FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE

Q: When purchasing automobile insurance what should I consider?
A: There are several things you should consider when purchasing automobile insurance that your independent agent will help you with. Here are a few:
• Purchase the amount of liability coverage which makes sense for you.
• Select the optional coverages you want.
• Decide which company to purchase insurance from.
• Don't base your decision solely on price. Other factors like service and claim response are extremely important in selecting the right insurance.

Q: What is collision physical damage coverage?
A: Collision is the loss you incur when your automobile collides with another vehicle or object like a telephone pole.

Q: What is comprehensive physical damage coverage?
A: Comprehensive provides coverage for direct physical damage losses you could incur to your car from something like a hailstorm.

Q: What happens when I loan my car to someone? Is that person covered by my policy? Am I still covered?
A: Yes. Liability and coverage for Physical Damage (i.e. Comprehensive and Collision) always follow your car if permission to use the vehicle was given. Plus, if the driver of your car is insured, his/her policy will also be available to cover the cost of damages and injuries. The same rules apply when you borrow someone else's vehicle; your own insurance follows you no matter whose car you're driving. But not if it is for regular use – only as a substitute vehicle for your own. The vehicle owner's policy is the key coverage in the event of an accident and your policy would be excess.

Q: My child received a learner's permit to drive today. Can I add him or her as a new driver on my auto policy?
A: No, the insurance company will not add a driver to a policy until they have an actual driver's license.  However, your child will be covered while driving on a permit as long as he or she is driving with an operator who has been licensed for over one year.

Q: I recently moved to Massachusetts and obtained a new driver's license. Will I get credit for my good driving record from my previous license?
A: If you have been driving for more than six years you can get credit for your good driving record. You must provide your insurance agent with your driving record (in English) from your previous residence (either state or country). The insurance company will then adjust your SDIP rating accordingly.

Q: While on vacation in Florida, I will be renting a car. Does my automobile policy provide coverage?
A: Yes, as long as you are in the United States, their territories, and Canada. However, you are limited to the coverage (liability and physical damage) of your own vehicle, not the vehicle you are renting. For example, if you own a 1990 Ford Escort and you rent a Porche, you will be covered for the value of your Escort, not the Porche in the event of a collision or comprehensive loss. Please note that you are not covered while renting a vehicle in a location other than stated above.

Q: How does where I live affect my premium?
A: Where you keep your car directly affects your chances of having an accident or becoming a victim of theft or vandalism. The likelihood of encountering these problems increases in larger, more densely populated cities, while such incidents remain relatively low in rural areas. Additionally, the time and efficiency of police response and law enforcement, local road and traffic conditions, and the quality of local medical services can affect regional insurance rates. Some insurers even factor in the litigation rates in a given area (how many lawsuits are filed, go to trial, out of court settlements, and their amounts).

Q: Am I covered for natural disasters or “Acts of God”?
A: Comprehensive insurance, which covers you for fire and theft, generally covers you against damage by flood, earthquake, hail, and other natural perils, except when your car is overturned (which is technically considered a collision). If you have specific concerns about the safety of your vehicle in natural disasters, contact us for information on catastrophic coverage.

Q: How can I challenge my insurers if they refuse to cover a claim?
A: Usually, insurers that refuse to cover a claim have a strong legal reason for doing so — even if you disagree. First, contact us if you feel you're being treated unfairly. Your agent is your strongest advocate in insurance matters. But if it's a legal problem, you might have to hire a lawyer.

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