How Will the Pandemic Affect My Car Insurance?

Many states are on lockdown due to the Coronavirus Pandemic. Non-essential businesses remain closed, and many people are at home. Driving habits have temporarily changed, and many are wondering how they can save money on their car insurance premiums. It’s easier to save money than you may think. Here are some ways you can reduce your car insurance premiums during the Pandemic.

Take One or More Vehicles Off the Road

If you own two or more vehicles and find that you aren’t using them as much, you may be able to take the unused vehicles off the road. Keep in mind that many states require vehicle insurance as long as they are registered. So, if you want to suspend the insurance in those states, you will also have to notify the motor vehicle department, and you may need to turn in your vehicle plates. Call your insurance agent to see what is legal in your area.

California Insurance Commissioner Orders Refund Premiums

Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara ordered the insurance companies to return insurance premiums to consumers and businesses and provide much-needed financial relief during the Coronavirus pandemic. The Commissioner’s plan covers premiums paid for the months of March and April — including the month of May if the current “shelter in place” restrictions continue — in at least six different insurance lines: private passenger automobile, commercial automobile, workers’ compensation, commercial multi-peril, commercial liability, medical malpractice, and any other insurance line where the risk of loss has fallen substantially as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Speak with your insurance representative to find out more.

Change Your Vehicle Classification, Commute vs. Pleasure Use

Are you aware that vehicles used for commuting to work cost more to insure than vehicles used for pleasure? If you are out of work and no longer commute, or don’t drive as many miles, you may be able to change the vehicle insurance classification to save money. Contact your auto insurance company about changing the classification for as long as you are not driving to work.

Shop Around Before Renewing Your Auto Insurance

If your automobile insurance is coming up for renewal, even if it isn’t, you may wish to shop around to see if you can get cheaper auto insurance. You may be able to purchase a cheaper conventional automobile insurance policy, or one that charges based on the mileage you drive. Usage-based automobile insurance, also called pay-per-mile insurance, has become popular with people who need to own a car but don’t drive it very often. Typical pay-per-mile insurance companies charge a base rate, plus a charge for each mile you drive. If you usually work from home and don’t drive much, a pay-per-mile plan may save you money. But if you usually commute to work or drive more often, a pay-per-mile plan may cost more than a conventional automobile insurance policy. A few hours of research may save you money on your car insurance.

What If You Can’t Afford Car Insurance While Unemployed

If you are unemployed because of Coronavirus and can no longer afford to pay your automobile insurance, don’t stop paying the premiums without notifying your insurance company. Many insurance companies are offering their customers payment grace periods and other payment options. These insurance companies understand that the Coronavirus pandemic is causing undue economic strain, and they want to help. In fact, the California Insurance Commissioner has required that all in-state insurance companies provide a 60-day grace period for all insurance payments. That includes auto, life, health, and homeowners insurance.

How will the Coronavirus Pandemic Affect an Accident Claim

If you are in a car accident where your vehicle is damaged or you are injured, you should immediately file an accident claim with your insurance company. If the accident involved another driver, you would also need to file a claim with their insurance company. Keep in mind that insurance companies are a non-essential business, they are limiting in-person interactions, and their offices are not open to the public. But, you will be able to file a claim on their website, over the phone, or through their online phone app. If you are involved in an auto accident and were injured, you should consider calling a car accident attorney Los Angeles.

Should You Call Car Accident Lawyers Los Angeles?

If you or someone you know was in a car accident, you should call a car accident lawyer in Los Angeles for help. An experienced personal injury, auto accident lawyer in Los Angeles, California can provide you with expert advice. If you need legal advice after being injured in a car accident, contact M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers. Our experienced lawyers have recovered more than $200 million through jury verdicts and settlements for our clients.

How Long Does It Take to Receive a Settlement from an Accident Injury Claim?