Know Your Policy

Knowing your insurance policy is more important than you might think.  It not only protects you, but it also covers any others who may be riding in your car.  And when you toss the keys over to your teenager, you can worry just a smidge less knowing they are protected as well.  But think twice before opting for the cheapest coverage.  Saving a buck or two each month is not worth the bills that will overwhelm you when your policy falls short.

Although driving without car insurance is illegal, there are countless uninsured motorists on the road every day.  According to the Insurance Research Counsel, as many as 25% of drivers are uninsured.  If you're among them, not only will you be responsible for paying for damages to your own car, but you could be shelling out quite a bit to pay for every dent and scratch for the other guy's car.

With the amount of insurance companies that exist today, driving an uninsured vehicle is not only irresponsible, but it's inexcusable.  Do your research and find a policy that best fits your needs.  Grab a cup of coffee, sit down at your keyboard, and start searching.  There are even interactive programs that can simulate accidents and give you an idea of the kind of coverage that you would need.

Okay, but what happens to you if the other driver is zipping around town without insurance?  That's when you should get familiar with your own policy.  Do you have Uninsured Motorist Insurance?  You better hope so.  If you get into an accident with someone who is uninsured and they are legally responsible for the damages, you won't get any money from them if they don't have money to give you.

Bottom line: you can't afford to drive without insurance.