All drivers and car owners in Fort Collins, CO, need to have a valid auto insurance policy that protects them and those around them. Therefore, before making a car insurance policy purchase, there are several factors that need to be considered; your budget, the insurance provider that you are willing to work with, the driving habits you have, and the driving risk levels measured by your driving habits. The most important one is the level of coverage that you want. In most cases, insurance companies tend to examine a driver before allowing them to make a purchase. Mostly, the insurance companies want to know your driving habits, where you do most of your driving, the city that you are from, and the roads that you drive on the most, your age, your car model, and so much more. It will be easier for you to get an insurance provider within your limits; there are several online platforms that can allow you to examine several car insurance companies within your city to help you understand their coverage options and their rates. Sites like Wirefly are among the most reliable sites for this option. Every driver intends to get an insurance provider that will offer him/her cheap car insurance coverage that will save him/her some cash.
In Fort Collins, CO, how, where, and when you drive can have a significant impact on whether you will get cheap car insurance policies. The factors mentioned above can make a big difference in your rates, especially if you are looking for cheap car insurance rates. Once you are evaluated by the auto insurance company, you will be placed in the high-risk or low-risk level profile. If you are a high-risk driver, you will be forced to go for additional covers, which are expensive compared to the policies offered to a low-risk driver. Basically, your driving habits will significantly influence the rates you will be charged by the insurance provider of your choice.
Most drivers opt for insurance policies that are within their budget. As a result, the drivers look for car insurance companies with affordable and cheap auto insurance policies. Notably, your driver’s history will be used to classify a driver as either high risk or a low-risk driver. Additionally, your driving history will have an effect on the coverage options available for you. It is important to know and understand your risk level as a driver; this allows you to know if you need a high risk or accident forgiveness policy or not. It is obvious that all drivers need to get cheap car insurance covers; this can be achieved if the driver looks for insurance providers with the best rates, better discounts, and incentives. Therefore, it is necessary for drivers to compare rates and policies from different car insurance providers and pick the one that fully meets and satisfies all their demands.
The Best Cheap Car Insurance Companies In Fort Collins CO
Before making a purchase, it is necessary for the driver to know exactly what they want. Knowing the car insurance cover that fully meets all your demands and knowing the budget that you are working with will allow you to pick an insurance provider that is suitable for you. Therefore, a driver should take time and familiarize himself/herself with the car insurance companies in Fort Collins, CO; this will allow him/her to make the perfect selection.
Moreover, it is required by law that all drivers in Fort Collins, CO to have auto insurance cover all the time. Therefore, drivers should pick car insurance policies that are within their budget, meets their needs, and are less hectic to deal with.
Below is a list of cheap car insurance companies in Fort Collins, CO;
| Rank | Company | Annual Payment |
| 1 | Nationwide | $862 |
| 2 | Allstate | $975 |
| 3 | Progressive | $1,187 |
| 4 | USAA | $1,241 |
| 5 | Safeco | $1,295 |
| 6 | Farmers | $1,374 |
| 7 | Esurance | $1,469 |
| 8 | Geico | $1,541 |
| 9 | Liberty Mutual | $1,589 |
| 10 | State Farm | $1,671 |
| 11 | American Family | $1,736 |
| 12 | Travelers | $1,789 |
| 13 | MetLife | $1,865 |
| 14 | CSAA | $1,971 |
Drivers have different needs and circumstances. Therefore, when shopping for car insurance policies, it is important to get a policy that is personalized to meet all your demands. In Fort Collins, CO, insurance companies look at factors like the marital status, model of your car, age, credit score, and driving history, allowing you to make a purchase. A personalized car insurance cover will not only give you what you need but also allow you to get the best and affordable rates; this will allow you to enjoy discounts and incentives in the process. With different circumstances, a driver will be charged different rates.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance In Fort Collins CO
The average cost of car insurance policies in Fort Collins, CO is approximately $1,158 per year; this is 23.3% cheaper than the average of the entire state of Colorado, which is $1,382 annually. Additionally, the cost of car insurance policies in Fort Collins, CO, is 21.9% cheaper than the average in the whole of the USA, which is $1,371 annually.
Fort Collins CO Auto Insurance Requirements
It is legally required by law that all drivers in Fort Collins that have functional motor vehicles have liability coverage from a licensed car insurance company. The following are the requirements for a minimum amount of liability auto insurance coverage in Fort Collins, CO.
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death of a single person in an accident caused by the driver of the insured car.
- $50,000 for all the injuries and deaths of more than one person in an accident caused by the driver of the insured vehicle.
- $15,000 for property damage for every accident caused by the insured vehicle.
In most cases, the basic liability coverage covers any medical bills, property damage bills, and any other costs for the drivers, passengers, and pedestrians who are injured or have their cars damaged in the cause of an accident caused by the driver’s vehicle. A driver has an option of carrying more coverage that will offer you more protection in case of a serious accident or significant car accidents that cause serious bodily injuries and car damages. Remember that once the policy limits are depleted and you had gone for low coverage, you may have to go into your pocket to pay for the extra cost that cannot be covered by the insurance policy. Therefore, the higher insurance limits can help you avoid any unnecessary costs.
Your liability policy will be applicable if your friends or family members are driving your vehicle or someone else. The liability coverage is applicable to you if you are driving someone else’s car and get involved in an accident. Remember that the liability policy above does not protect you or your car if it is involved in an accident and you are the one driving it in Fort Collins, CO. A driver will need the extra coverage that protects them in case they are involved in an accident; this involved the collision coverage which will pay for all the damages on your vehicle.
How To Get Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes In Fort Collins CO?
With the high rates of auto insurance in Fort Collins, CO, there is a need to find a way to reduce these rates and allow for affordable car insurance quotes. The easiest way to get cheap and affordable auto insurance quotes is via having a clean driving record. Those drivers who are considered low-risk drivers by insurance companies are usually rewarded with lower insurance rates.
It is best for you to avoid speeding tickets, crashes, and DUIs for you to save money when it comes to having insurance. Some of the ways that you can use while in Fort Collins, CO, to get these reduced insurance rates from the insurance companies are as follows.
- Observe a Clean Driving Record for Numerous Successive Years
This is considered the most effective way of getting reduce insurance rates in Newark, NJ. Avoiding cases of DUI, traffic infractions, and collisions will persuade the insurers to reduce your monthly premiums. You will be considered as one with less liability. To maintain a clean driving record, observe the following:
- Observe all traffic laws
- Avoid driving if under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
- Limit the amount of time you spend driving your car. This will reduce your chances of being in an accident or getting traffic infractions.
- Maintain and service your vehicle to avoid accidents
2. Increase your Deductibles
The lower the deductible, the higher the annual premium; hence, you spend a lot of money on your car insurance. Select car insurance with a higher deductible in case of an accident, theft, or other damages to the vehicle.
Deductibles range from $250 to $1000. Ensure you confirm with your agent about how your premium may change in the case that you increase your deductible. Raising your deductible may make your annual premium better by some points hence saving you some money.
3. Purchase Less Car Insurance Coverage
Opting for less insurance coverage means reduced premiums to the insurer. Although this sounds beneficial, it is necessary to trade with caution when picking this option. If a single hazard or a moment’s distraction leads to an accident and you as the insured are found to be at fault, then there will be a crushing debt looming over you due to insufficient coverage.
It is even a worse scenario if the driver is uninsured. It is always better to purchase liability coverage that is more than your state’s minimum limits. It is also beneficial to add uninsured motorist coverage that will match the limits of your liability coverage.
These tips will save you some money on your car insurance monthly and add up to major savings as time goes by.
4. Try and change your Auto Insurance Providers.
Different auto insurance companies use different ways to calculate premiums; hence, different quotes from carriers.
With this in mind, you should switch to an auto insurance provider with the cheapest car insurance, and you will be able to save more money on your part.
Even though that particular provider offers you favorable insurance quotes, try getting quotes from different insurers before renewing. This is necessary if there have been increased rates, especially after an accident or DUI conviction.
5. Confirm about Any Existing Discounts
Insurance companies offer different discounts when it comes to auto or car insurance. Find out the discounts that insurers provide to their customers to get lower insurance rates. However, do not fall prey when it comes to the long lists of possible discounts being offered. Instead, compare discount rates from multiple insurance companies.
Insurers offer discounts to customers who:
- Have a car that has anti-theft of safety features
- Pay their premium on an annual basis or six-month period
- Agree to get their documents online
- Are members of certain affiliate groups or organizations
- Maintain a clean driving record
- Bundle car insurance with other policies
- Ensure multiple cars using one policy
6. Try and Reduce your Annual Car Mileage
When you request insurance quotes, most insurance companies tend to ask about your annual mileage. Your annual mileage shows how much time you spend behind the wheel driving. Spending more time driving your vehicle means that there is an increased chance of crashing. With such increased rates, insurance companies will view you as a high-mileage driver.
Auto insurance companies consider high-mileage drivers greater liability than low-mileage drivers. This means that a higher annual mileage will attract higher car insurance quotes; this means that more money has to be paid. Limiting your annual mileage will be able to get you reduced premiums.
7. Have a Type of Vehicle that is Cheap to Insure
The model of your vehicle, the make, and the year can impact your auto insurance rates. These factors attribute to the varying rates of accidents, vandalism, and thefts that different vehicles may have. This means that a vehicle may be more liable to insure than another one.
Therefore, try and purchase a car that is rarely a victim of accidents and claims. Cars with less horsepower are the cheapest to insure as they are less likely to be in speed-related accidents.
Fort Collins CO Car Insurance For Drivers With A Good Record
As a driver, it is important to maintain a good driving record because it comes in handy when you are looking for cheap auto insurance policies. Drivers with great experience and a clean driving record are considered good drivers by car insurance providers. As a result, they get low rates compared to drivers with a bad driving record.
Many car insurance companies consider drivers with a good driving record to be low-risk drivers and careful on the roads; as a result, such drivers are offered cheap car insurance rates. The list below contains auto insurance companies that offer the cheapest rates for good drivers;
| Insurance Company | Full Coverage |
| Geico | $1,865 |
| Direct Auto | $2,174 |
| State Farm | $2,281 |
| Nationwide | $2,369 |
| American Family | $2,475 |
| Travelers | $2,581 |
| Progressive | $2,679 |
| Allstate | $2,781 |
The rates above are just an approximation of the rates offered by car insurance providers. Therefore, the rates can vary depending on the company and the individual.
Fort Collins CO Cheap Car Insurance Quotes For Young Drivers
To have a good driving record, it is necessary to gain some experience as a driver, and in most cases, older drivers are considered good drivers because they have experience. On the other hand, young drivers are considered high-risk drivers. As a result, young drivers are offered high rates by car insurance companies.
In Fort Collins, CO, drivers under the age of 40 are considered young and lack the necessary driving experience to be safe on the roads. However, those under 25 years can apply for a student discount to get lower rates. The applying student should have at least a grade of B and above.
The list below shows the auto insurance companies that offer the most affordable rates for young drivers;
| Company | Annual Payment |
| Progressive | $2,281 |
| USAA | $2,364 |
| Allstate | $2,451 |
| Travelers | $2,579 |
| Nationwide | $2,632 |
| American Family | $2,689 |
| Geico | $2,758 |
| State Farm | $2,892 |
The rates are just an approximation. Different insurance companies offer different rates depending on the requirements of the client.
Cheapest Minimum Coverage For Young Drivers In Fort Collins CO
Most of the time, young drivers hope to get the cheapest car insurance coverage. Young drivers tend to have very few assets that they can use to protect them with liability insurance. Therefore, getting cheap minimum coverage is considered a good thing for most young drivers.
Below are auto insurance companies that offer the cheapest minimum coverage for young drivers in Fort Collins, CO;
| Company | Annual Payment |
| State Farm | $1,175 |
| Nationwide | $1,231 |
| Allstate | $1,289 |
| MetLife | $1,365 |
| American National | $1,451 |
| Geico | $1,497 |
| Esurance | $1,536 |
| Grange Insurance | $1,589 |
| Farmers | $1,672 |
Almost all auto insurance companies consider young drivers as high-risk drivers. As a result, offer them high rates. Getting cheap minimum insurance coverage, especially for young drivers, is basically a huge win. Maintaining a good driving record and having a good credit score can help the young driver enjoy the above rates. The rates shown above are just an approximation since different insurance companies offer young drivers different rates.
Cheap Car Insurance In Fort Collins CO After A Speeding Ticket
Most drivers enjoy the adrenaline rush and the thrill that comes with driving fast. However, there is an old phrase that says, “speeding thrills, but kills.” Speeding endangers not only your life but also the life of other road users. Therefore, drivers with a speeding record in their driving history are considered high-risk drivers by car insurance companies; this is because they are likely to cause an accident and file for more claims compared to careful and responsible drivers.
Below is the list of auto insurance companies in Fort Collins, CO, with affordable rates for drivers with a high speeding record;
| Company | Annual Payment |
| Progressive | $1,682 |
| Nationwide | $1,785 |
| Allstate | $1,841 |
| Safeco | $1,895 |
| America Family | $1,973 |
| Liberty Mutual | $2,163 |
| State Farm | $2,287 |
| Travelers | $2,341 |
| Geico | $2,389 |
Every time a driver is caught speeding, the traffic office adds certain points to his/her driving record. The points depend on the speed that the driver had hit at the moment. Because of these points, insurance companies consider the driver a high-risk driver hence offer high rates. Therefore, as much as the drivers enjoy speeding, taking it slow on the roads can save you some cash.
Cheap Car Insurance In Fort Collins CO After A Car Accident
As a driver, it is important to drive carefully and responsibly on the road as it not only saves you and others from unnecessary injuries but also keeps your driving record clean and saves you some cash in the process. If you are found at fault for an accident, your driving record will be tainted, and the car insurance companies will offer high rates because they consider you a high-risk driver. Most auto insurance companies do not like to take such drivers because they view them as the riskiest and have a high chance of placing a claim.
Below is a list of cheap auto insurance companies in Fort Collins, CO, for at-fault drivers;
| Company | Average Rate |
| State Farm | $2,489 |
| Progressive | $2,563 |
| Nationwide | $2,641 |
| MetLife | $2,689 |
| Travelers | $2,761 |
| CSAA | $2,893 |
| Geico | $2,971 |
| American Family | $3,165 |
The driver at fault can apply for accident forgiveness that will see him/her get his/her to get his driving record cleaned up. However, the forgiveness application can be accepted or declined by the car insurance company. As a result, the driver at fault is bound to get high rates from insurance companies because of their driving record.
Cheap Auto Insurance Quotes In Fort Collins CO After A DUI
As a driver, it is very important to be careful while behind the wheels to avoid causing any harm to you and other road users. Therefore, driving under the influence is not allowed and is considered a traffic and criminal offense not only in Fort Collins, CO but also across the nation. Drivers with a DUI in their driving record are considered to be high-risk drivers by car insurance companies. As a result, such drivers get charged high premiums.
The drivers with DUI in their driving record can apply and try to get out of the penalty. However, the process of clearing the DUI for your record is complex and long. The penalty includes; fines from courts, SR-22 application, and reinstatement fees. To avoid the long and complex process, the driver can opt to get cheap auto insurance rates from several insurance providers.
Below is a list of cheap insurance companies in Fort Collins, CO, for drivers with a DUI in their driving record;
| Company | Annual Payment |
| Progressive | $1,871 |
| State Farm | $1,963 |
| Allstate | $2,285 |
| Nationwide | $2,371 |
| MetLife | $2,486 |
| American Family | $2,579 |
| Geico | $2,642 |
| Esurance | $2,687 |
The rates shown above are just an approximation of what drivers can expect while looking for car insurance policies.
Cheap Auto Insurance Quotes In Fort Collins CO For Minimum Coverage
The cheap car insurance quotes are the basic policies that fulfill the minimum coverage requirements demanded by the city, state, or nation. For drivers looking for cheap minimum coverage, below are auto insurance companies in Fort Collins, CO that offer the most affordable rates;
| Company | Annual Payment |
| State Farm | $589 |
| Progressive | $647 |
| Nationwide | $689 |
| MetLife | $731 |
| American Family | $786 |
| Geico | $841 |
| Travelers | $895 |
| Allstate | $973 |
According to the table above, State Farm offers the cheapest liability-only coverage for as low as around $589 annually. All the companies listed above are quite affordable. All you have to do is get the company that offers what you need. Also, only qualified drivers like military and former military and their families can apply for minimum coverage from USAA, which offers $451 annually, which is cheaper than the State Farm.
Fort Collins CO Cheap Car Insurance Companies For Drivers With Bad Credit Score
A credit score is among the major factors that car insurance companies look at before offering you rates for the policies that you have chosen. Having a good credit score will definitely play a significant role in your annual car insurance rates. Therefore, drivers with a bad credit score will be required to pay higher premiums compared to those with a good credit score.
Drivers with bad credit score tend to pay an average of $2,459 annually; this is almost $1,000 more than what those with a good credit score. Here is a list of insurance companies that offer the best rates for drivers with a bad credit score;
| Company | Annual Payment |
| USAA | $1,287 |
| Geico | $1,342 |
| Travelers | $1,389 |
| Progressive | $1,465 |
| American Family | $1,571 |
| MetLife | $1,673 |
| Nationwide | $1,782 |
| Esurance | $1,891 |
A poor credit score shows that you have financial strains; hence consider you a burden. In that case, you will end up paying high rates.
In Fort Collins CO Cheapest Car Insurance Companies For Seniors
Most insurance companies in Fort Collins, CO, offer high rates to senior drivers compared to the young ones and those in their middle ages. Senior drivers are considered high-risk drivers because of their age and concentration on the road.
Below is the list of car insurance companies that offer the best and cheapest rates for senior drivers in Fort Collins, CO;
| Company | Annual Payment |
| Geico | $872 |
| Allstate | $965 |
| USAA | $1,183 |
| MetLife | $1,279 |
| American Family | $1,364 |
| Travelers | $1,451 |
| State Farm | $1,498 |
| Nationwide | $1,562 |
On average, a senior driver would pay approximately $1,582 annually, which is more than what the younger drivers would pay.
Who Offers A Cheap Car Insurance In Fort Collins CO For Married Couples?
Married couples in Fort Collins, CO, have a chance of enjoying some of the best car insurance rates. In most cases, married couples tend to own more than one car. But if they own just one car, then they stand a chance to enjoy the best rates in Colorado.
However, married couples tend to pay more for their auto insurance than those who are single; this is because there is more than one person covered by the insurance policy they choose. With a high chance of owning more than one car, married couples can allow their children to drive their cars which can be a cause of accidents.
| Company | Married Couple Rates |
| Progressive | $2,589 |
| State Farm | $2,641 |
| Geico | $2,687 |
| American Family | $2,763 |
| Nationwide | $2,841 |
| Travelers | $2,895 |
| Farmers | $3,162 |
| Allstate Insurance | $3,289 |
On average, married couples pay approximately $250 monthly compared to single individuals who pay around $159 per month.
What Are The Different Types Of Fort Collins Auto Insurance Coverage?
Do you know that there are different types of car insurance? In case you are looking for auto coverage, having knowledge of the different types of auto insurance and what they cover is essential for you. Here is a list of some of the basic car insurance types, how they work, and what they cover.
- Personal Injury Protection Insurance
It is also known as no-fault insurance. Personal injury protection insurance covers particular medical costs, loss of income, funeral costs, etc., that result from a covered accident. Based on your policy’s limits, this insurance coverage could cover as high as eighty percent of medical and any other costs that might arise from a covered accident.
This insurance covers both you and your passengers’ medical costs and does not consider who is at fault. It can also cover your medical costs even when you are not driving. You might get hit by a car while walking. With this package, it means that your medical costs are taken care of fully.
2. Major Parts Replacement Coverage
With this insurance package, you will be able to replace major parts, for instance, brakes, batteries, and even tires, of your car when an accident occurs. The major parts replacement coverage offers replacement of these major parts regardless of any wear and tear or depreciation value at the time of the accident.
3. Gap Insurance
The value of your vehicle depreciates very rapidly. In case you purchased your car on loan, your auto insurance settlement may not be enough to cater for such an expense if the car is stolen or totaled. With gap insurance, you can be able to pay up your loan easily.
Gap insurance will cover the difference between the actual worth of your vehicle and the amount you owe on it (loan).
4. Towing and Labor Insurance
Towing and Labor Insurance is optional coverage.
This coverage is available if you already have comprehensive car insurance. Towing and Labor Insurance cover your tow and labor costs to fix your car. This coverage protects you against costs related to common roadside breakdowns like flat tires, dead batteries, etc.
5. Rental Reimbursement Insurance
Your vehicle might be in very bad shape after an accident which might result in it taking longer to be repaired, and you have no car for a while. At times, the expenses of fixing your car after an accident might be weighing you down.
Rental reimbursement insurance pays for your transportation expenses. This coverage may pay for a rental car for the period that your vehicle cannot be driven, or it may pay for your public transportation fare. This insurance does not apply if your car needs maintenance or you want to rent a car for a vacation.
6. Classic Car Insurance
Classic car insurance caters to the special needs of antique and classic car collectors. This coverage offers specialized coverage. A vehicle is considered a classic or vintage car if it is at least 25 years old. The classic car insurance also protects high-value vehicles like vintage military vehicles, exotic cars, hot rods, and muscle cars.
7. New Car Replacement
In cases your car is declared a total loss or even stolen, then; this coverage pays the value of a brand new car of the same make and model instead of the depreciated value of the car. However, this payment is made after the deductible has been subtracted from it.
8. Roadside Assistance
Whether it is basic or premium roadside assistance insurance, signing up for this package will ensure you receive extended towing, flat tire service, etc. This package entails breakdown services for drivers with mechanical failure that has left them stranded by the side of the road.
9. Original Parts Replacement
Original parts replacement is an optional coverage that allows you to fix damages to your car using parts of high quality and standards. After a car accident, your vehicle may need replacement parts. This coverage guarantees that your car gets original parts from the manufacturer and not a third party for the replacement process.
In the case that the manufacturer parts for your car are not obtainable or are no longer being produced, this coverage guarantees you reconditioned and still good quality parts.
10. Liability Coverage
Liability Insurance is needed in most of the states in the United States of America. It is a legal requirement for one to be able to drive a car.
It may help cover third-party damages for injuries and property. You are legally responsible for the damages that you have caused the other party, and the liability coverage deals with that. This insurance covers all legal costs and payouts for which you, as the insured person, would be found liable.
However, the liability coverage does not cover intentional damage, criminal prosecution, or contractual liabilities.
11. Collision Insurance
It covers damages to your car following an accident involving a collision with another vehicle or an object like a tree. Collision Insurance may help to fix or repair and even replace a covered vehicle.
12. Comprehensive Insurance
This package offers extra coverage in the case that your vehicle gets involved in an accident that does not relate to a collision like theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, damages caused by animals, and even objects falling on your car.
Comprehensive insurance does not cover damages to your car or damages to another person’s car if caused by a collision and you or your passengers’ medical needs after the accident.
13. Uninsured Motorist Insurance
Having this type of coverage protects you and your vehicle against uninsured drivers and hit-and-run accidents. This insurance is usually paired with underinsured motorist insurance. For this coverage, the at-fault driver with no auto insurance is liable for the damages to your vehicle or any harm that has been caused to you due to the accident.
All costs of the accident will be paid up to the limits in your policy. With this insurance, you will be saved from paying any out-of-pocket costs for an accident you did not cause.
14. Underinsured Motorist Insurance
Some drivers choose to have the minimum liability coverage to save money. However, this may not provide enough coverage. Underinsured Motorist Insurance protects you in the event an accident occurs with an at-fault driver whose insurance cannot fully cover the costs.
15. Medical Payments Coverage
When you are involved in an accident, medical expenses can be very costly. Medical Payments Coverage helps to pay for these medical expenses related to the covered accident no matter who is at fault. If you are in an accident with your family and any other passengers, your Medical Payments Coverage will cover the medical costs for all of them.
It is different from Bodily Injury Liability which caters for the medical expenses of those involved in an accident that are neither you nor your passengers.
Is Fort Collins CO Auto Insurance A No-Fault?
For Fort Collins, CO, drivers in this state should know that it upholds a traditional fault-based system. This means that when it comes to financial responsibility, the at-fault driver will have to deal with all the losses, that is, car damages and medical costs that might arise from the car accident they have caused. Also, these drivers are responsible for lost income, property damage, and other injuries related to the accident they caused.
The driver at fault for causing the car accident in Fort Collins, CO, will also be held liable for any resulting harm, which means that their insurance will need to absorb and pay for all the losses up to the policy limits.
In Fort Collins, CO drivers or any other person who suffers from any kind of injury or car damage, or property loss due to an auto accident can proceed to have their issue resolved in one of these ways:
- By filing a claim with his or her own insurance company, assuming that the loss is covered under the policy (in this situation, the injured person’s insurance company will likely turn around and pursue a subrogation claim against the at-fault driver’s carrier)
- by filing a third-party claim directly with the at-fault driver’s insurance carrier
- by filing a personal injury lawsuit in civil court against the at-fault driver
Remember, Colorado was once a no-fault-based state up to 2003. That means that with the no-fault system, a claimant will not have the same range of options as listed above. After an auto accident, the no-fault system means that the driver must turn to his or her personal injury protection (PIP) from their own car insurance policy to pay for any resulting medical costs and other out-of-pocket expenses, regardless of the driver at fault for the accident.
In case a car crash occurs, a claim can be made against the at-fault driver only if the injuries you succumb are at a certain threshold. This is the only time that drivers in Colorado would be allowed to step outside the no-fault system. However, there is no need to worry anymore. Driver in Colorado no longer have to deal with the no-fault system after an in-state car accident as the at-fault system is what is in play.
Ways To Reduced Rates In Fort Collins CO Car Insurance
When you buy a car(s), you would definitely like to have the best coverage at a low and affordable price from the best insurance company. If you live in Fort Collins, CO, it will be best if you surveyed different insurance companies for you to get reduced rates and still receive the best coverage.
Instead of sacrificing the quality of the coverage you receive for your car(s), there are better ways to save money. Here are the six different ways to lower your car insurance premium:
- Pay your car insurance policy in full
- Try usage-based car insurance
- Consider raising your deductibles
- Monitor price changes to your policy
- Bundle your car insurance with other policies
- Shop for better insurance rates
Good Drivers Car Insurance Discounts In Fort Collins CO
Motorists in Fort Collins, CO, who have a clean driving record that is free from car accidents and tickets from moving violations, can get the good drives car insurance discounts. This clean driving record should, however, be from a number of years, usually three consecutive years, before one can qualify for this type of insurance.
You can ask your insurance representative about the good driver’s car insurance and the requirements you must meet for you to access it if you are a driver living in Fort Collins, CO. Also, you can find out about some other common discounts like:
- Accident-Free
- Vehicle Safety
- Anti-Lock Brake
- Passive Restraint
- Utility Discount
- Multiple Car
- Multiple Policy
- Good Student
- Home Ownership
- New Car
- Full Pay
- Resident Student
- Anti-Theft Device
What Individual Factors Affect A Fort Collins Driver’s Insurance Rates?
In case you are a Fort Collins driver and you are looking around for auto insurance, you might end up paying for more or less than the average citywide insurance rates. This is because different insurance companies use different factors that mainly arise from your personal details to calculate your insurance rates.
Car insurance providers usually consider the following:
- Age – Teen drivers are considered risky drivers, and if they live in Fort Collins, CO, they are bound to pay higher auto insurance rates than other age groups. It is because they have less driving experience than other age groups. If you’re a teen driver, you can expect to pay $4418 more a year for insurance than drivers in their 20s. However, keep in mind that as you age out of your teens, you will earn a decreased insurance rate.
- Marital status – In case you are married and a driver in Fort Collins, then you and your spouse can save money when it comes to auto insurance if you bundle all your household’s vehicles into the same policy.
- Gender – Some insurance providers have begun considering the driver’s gender when calculating their insurance rates, unlike how it was previously. Most insurance companies have started considering charging different rates for female drivers and make drivers. Depending on your provider’s policies regarding gender, you might have to pay up to 3 percent more for auto insurance.
- Driving history – Insurance companies usually take note of your driving history when calculating your insurance rates. If you have a clean driving record, then you are bound to get cheap insurance rates. However, those drivers with bad records will get higher auto insurance rates.
- State requirements – Each state has its own requirements when it comes to car auto insurance with different minimums and different categories of required coverage. Based on the state’s requirements, you might be required to get more coverage which will, in turn, mean a more expensive policy for your auto insurance.
- Credit score – Insurance companies tend to relate one’s credit score and their reliability as a driver and their responsibility on the road. That’s why drivers with bad credit histories pay higher auto insurance rates.
- Zipcode – When you request an insurance quote from an insurance company in Fort Collins, CO, the insurance provider will look at your Zip code. This is because certain Zip codes are prone to auto thefts, uninsured drivers, and acts of vandalism which means that those areas are high-risk areas. That means these Zip codes will have higher rates of insurance which is more expensive.
- Yearly mileage – The more that you are driving your car, the more you are at risk of being in an accident. That means that drivers with higher yearly mileage have higher insurance quotes. Insurance companies charge you more if you commute on a daily with your vehicle. However, if you rarely drive your vehicle and only use it for leisure, then you are likely to pay less.
- Car make and model – Certain car makes and models are cheaper to insure than others. That is why car insurance companies will prefer to insure cars that are safe and less likely to lead to extra expensive claims when an accident occurs. Those cars that have high safety ratings will get a discount when you insure them. Vehicles like Honda Accord and full-size Ford pickups are statistically at high risk of being stolen, which makes their auto insurance higher.
- High-risk violations – High-risk violations like traffic or moving violations and car accidents may increase your auto insurance rates from 20% to 200%, depending on what you were paying originally. If you have been convicted in the past, that means that the amount you will pay for your auto insurance will increase. In the case of multiple infractions, you will be considered a high-risk driver by your insurance company.
Car Insurance Fort Collins CO Questions And Answers
Why does my credit score affect my car insurance in Fort Collins?
Car insurance companies in Fort Collins, Colorado, have increasingly started to use drivers’ credit scores when determining their car insurance quotes. There has been a correlation between poor credit score and the chances of a person being involved in a car accident; hence, in turn, filing a claim with these insurance providers.
That is why your credit score is used to determine your car insurance. Credit scores are built into lots of ratings and are becoming more and more common across different insurance companies. The credit searches will not affect your credit file, but it is just a way to confirm your personal address. Credit scores are becoming an added layer of security for insurance carriers.
What is Liability Only Coverage?
Liability Insurance simply means that part of the car insurance that caters for the possible damages that you may have caused others as you were driving. Liability Only Coverage deals with medical care costs for those you might have injured in a car accident. It also means repairing damaged property, that is, the other person’s vehicle.
With Liability Insurance, there are three key numbers; this includes “injury coverage per person, coverage for total injury per accident, and property damage coverage per accident.”
Every state has its own requirements for car insurance minimums that are different from other states. For instance, a policy that has coverage for 15/30/25 implies that $15,000 per injured person, with a maximum of $30,000 for all the people who are injured in an accident and $25,000 in coverage for property damage.
Liability Only Coverage does not cover either you as the driver or your property. It only targets the third party involved in the car accident.
When should I get quotes?
The biggest mistake that most people make is to think that as long as they have their current vehicle and have not bought a new one, it is okay for them not to ask for new insurance quotes. The truth is it is best and also money-saving to ask for new insurance quotes every year when your policy comes up for renewal.
This is because car insurance companies do not give any type of discount for loyalty. Actually, most insurance companies maintain lower rates and insurance quotes for their new customers and to attract more clients to buy insurance from them. To make it even more needful to inquire for new insurance quotes every year is that most existing customers will experience a slow and steady increase in their insurance quotes over time. It is, therefore, cheaper and wiser to check for insurance quotes once every year.
Also, if you happen to get any driving tickets or citations for any type of hazards while driving on your driving record, the best move is to look around and ask for quotes from different insurance companies if you are aiming for cheaper insurance quotes with your not so perfect driving record.
In other situations, the savings for such moves can be significant for you as a car insurance owner. You can choose to decrease your commute, move to a different zip code and even improve your credit score for a bid to get cheaper insurance quotes. These are also the best times for you to get new insurance quotes since these factors change a lot and make you a less risky profile driver.
What does Full Coverage Insurance Cover?
When it comes to liability-only coverage, insurers only have to pay for one party in an accident, that is, the other person, their damaged vehicle, and their passengers.
However, with full coverage insurance, insurance companies have to pay for both your liability and your property damage. Furthermore, under Full Coverage, insurance companies might have to cover claims for damages that did not arise from a traffic accident. Therefore, there is an increased risk and more liability exposure to insurance companies when it comes to Full Coverage policy. Insurance companies have higher rates for full coverage policies.
Full Coverage Insurance includes two different types of coverage plans, that is comprehensive and collision insurance. Comprehensive insurance deals with damage to vehicles that do not result from a collision like theft, vandalism, fire, or weather damage (like hailstones). Collision coverage deals with any damages to your car, which result from a collision accident, such as hitting an object or another vehicle.
A clear distinction between comprehensive and collision insurance is as follows. If you hit a tree while driving and damage your car in the process; then, the collision package would cover your costs. If a tree falls on your vehicle and damages it, the comprehensive package will apply here.
How will certain jobs affect my coverage?
When applying for car insurance in Fort Collins, CO, there are questions that you will ask. Some of the questions will be specific and related to your driving habits. These questions will include how far you commute, be it to work or school, the type of work you are involved in, and whether or not you will be using your car in connection with your work.
This means that your type of job will automatically affect your job as it will help determine your driving habits, that is, will you be spending much time on the road and if that is so, how much distance will you be covering in the distance and does that make you a risk driver who might get involved in a car accident and file a claim with the insurance company.
However, keep in mind that some lines of work will be specifically excluded by your policy. For instance, most insurance companies exclude coverage if your car is used to directly deal with sales work and any other delivery function. That means that although you have insurance cover, using your car for a function that has been excluded from the policy means that you are incurred in case you are involved in an accident when doing that particular job.
Does My Auto Insurance Cover Rental Cars?
Yes and no! It all depends on your coverage. The coverage of a rental car depends on the insurance that you have on your car. In case your car is damaged, and you have to use a rental car, then the coverage packages you have on your car will extend to the rental car. This may include comprehensive collision and liability coverage. This also applies when you rent a car for business or travel.
Is Auto Insurance Tax Deductible?
Your car insurance premium is only tax-free if you use your car for business purposes. If it is for personal use, then your insurance premium is tax-deductible. However, if you use your car for both personal and business purposes, then you can deduct your insurance costs from your taxes for the percentage of the time that you use your car for business purposes.
You cannot, however, deduct personal losses caused by casualty or theft, whether or not it is covered by the insurance policy.
Why do auto insurance companies use my prior information?
There are some insurance companies that will choose to review your insurance information from your previous insurance coverage. This information will help the insurance company to determine if you qualify for the package, others will use it to establish your premium rates, and it can also be used to determine if you are eligible for the discounts.
The prior insurance information is also used to verify if you have had continuous auto liability insurance coverage and the prior liability coverage limits you had. This information is important as it helps to gauge the likelihood of any future accidents and coverage lapses.
Should I accept a settlement offer from the insurance company?
Before you rush to accept any settlement offer from the insurance company, ensure you weigh out your options. It is not unheard of for insurance companies to offer “lowball” settlements when claims are made. Most times, these settlements do not cover all of the accident-related expenses, that is, damages to the car and medical costs.
With such minimum settlement offers, they hope that you will accept it and go away. Avoid rushing to accept such an offer even when your situation requires money right away. Remember, once you have accepted the insurance company’s money, there is no turning back. Do not expect to deny the offer or ask for more money once you discover that the settlement offer cannot cover or sort out all the expenses.
Here is what your insurance company does not want you to know. You can negotiate upfront for more money than what they are offering. Also, you can use an attorney to help you negotiate for a better settlement offer. Ensure you review any settlement offer with an attorney before you accept it. That way, an attorney can help you to maximize the settlement offer and sort out your accident-related expenses.
Why does my car insurance keep increasing?
If your car insurance keeps increasing, there could be many reasons for that. This is why it is important for you to shop around to get the best car insurance. Insurance providers usually review their policies on a yearly basis, which means, if you had a great deal in one particular year, it may change and increase due to the renewal policies.
There are different forces in the market that are put into play when it comes to insurance and may have an impact on the premium costs. An individual’s actions like incurring points on their license, being involved in an accident, or even making a claim can also impact the car insurance and lead to an increase.
Therefore, you should not accept an increase in your insurance premium before trying to figure out other better options. Try and find other cheaper deals that might be available elsewhere by comparing car insurance quotes from a number of different insurance providers.
What is an SR-22?
An SR-22 is not technically an insurance package, although it is considered one. An SR-22 is more of a certificate given by your insurer to show proof of insurance coverage. It is mostly ordered by a judge.
In most cases, a judge would order an SR-22 since you have a not-so-perfect driving record, like multiple moving violations. An SR-22 usually has a filing fee of about $25, and you must have it for a period of three years.
Who Needs SR22 Insurance?
There are different types of people that require SR-22 insurance. The range is wide for those who require this form of insurance. The most common type of person that may need to buy SR-22 insurance is a convicted person. Anyone convicted of major driving violations would need SR-22 insurance. These violations could range from excessive speeding (overspeeding), OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), DUI (Drinking under the influence) to reckless endangerment, and many other similar violations.
Based on the State you live in, these violations will definitely get you convicted, and you will need SR-22 insurance. Such drivers are considered high-risk drivers due to their driving history. Their driving issues may have or could have resulted in serious damage or injury.
These drivers are kept under closer state supervision when it comes to meeting the car insurance requirements. Depending on the case, a judge might require such a driver to have more than the standard state minimum liability insurance. Also, the laws might need you to prove that you have insurance before you can get back your license back. After being convicted, you are getting the right insurance is essential if you want to get back on the road.
What are the Major Differences between Full Coverage and Liability?
When it comes to liability, insurers only have to pay for one car in an accident. With a Comprehensive policy or Full Coverage, insurance companies have to pay for both your liability and your property damage. Furthermore, under Full Coverage, insurance companies might have to cover claims for damages that did not arise from a traffic accident.
There is an increased risk and more liability exposure to insurance companies when it comes to Full Coverage policy. Therefore, insurance companies have higher rates for this Comprehensive policy as compared to Liability Insurance.
What is Auto Gap Insurance?
Auto Gap Insurance is a type of coverage that settles the extra amount of money that arises due to using a loan to buy your car. This insurance covers what an auto insurance settlement will not cover. Since car value is known to depreciate fast, losing your car to, for example, theft might not get you the full amount you owe a car loan. That is why; you should buy auto gap insurance to sort that remaining amount of money.
For instance, the value of your current car is $15,000, but you owe the bank $20,000; since you always owe more in loans than the car’s worth. So, in case of any trouble, either theft or an accident, your auto insurance will only settle the $15,000, the worth of your car. This means that you still owe $5,000. This is where auto gap insurance comes in. this type of coverage will settle that $5,000 of your loss.
