-Am I covered if I drive someone else's vehicle?
-What does “full coverage” mean?
-Will my policy be canceled if I have an accident?
-If I rent a car, do I have coverage?
-What is Optional/Add-on Equipment coverage?
-What can I do to keep my auto premiums down?
-What should I do if I'm in an accident?
Am I covered if I drive someone else's vehicle?
Generally speaking, the insurance goes with the car. For example, if you have an accident while driving someone else's car, the owner's insurance would apply first toward damages. Your auto insurance would generally apply in the event the owner of the vehicle had no auto insurance or did not have enough auto insurance to pay the damages. For specific information and guidance on your coverage in this situation, contact your local Handzel & Associates Ltd. agent.
What does “full coverage” mean?
The term full coverage generally means that the insurance policy has both liability coverage and coverage for damage to your vehicle. The term full coverage does not mean that everything is covered no matter what happens. Your auto insurance policy declaration page lists the coverages you have selected.
Will my policy be canceled if I have an accident?
Generally, being in an accident will not cause your policy to be canceled. However, after the facts of the situation are reviewed, you may be required to pay a higher premium for your policy upon renewal.
If I rent a car, do I have coverage?
Car rental companies charge daily fees for "CDW" coverage (which means their insurance will pay for all damages covered in your rental agreement). Rental car coverage under a private passenger policy varies state by state. Check your policy or contact your local Handzel & Associates Ltd. agent.
What is Optional/Add-on Equipment coverage?
Under the Comprehensive and Collision portion of your policy, optional equipment (a CD player for example) is covered only if permanently installed in the opening of the dash where the manufacturer would normally install such equipment.
An endorsement is available to provide coverage for optional equipment not permanently installed in the dash and for theft of items such as tapes, discs or other equipment designed for the reproduction of sound.
Your Handzel & Associates Ltd. agent can add protection for your car's custom stereo and electronics to your auto policy. These items are not commonly covered by regular auto policies.
Add a custom stereo endorsement to your policy and never worry about your "tunes" again.
What can I do to keep my auto premiums down?
You can work with your Handzel & Associates Ltd. agent to make sure your auto premiums are as low as they should be:
Check to see if you're eligible for any discounts such as claim-free, driver education, auto/home or multi-car.
Ask how much you can save by increasing your deductible.
What should I do if I'm in an accident?
Notify us immediately through your Handzel & Associates Ltd. agent, local Handzel & Associates Ltd. claims office, or use Online Claims Reporting. Give names and addresses of witnesses and injured persons. Promptly send Handzel & Associates Ltd. copies of notices or legal papers you receive about the accident. Cooperate with the investigation. You might have to submit a "proof of loss" form and, if you have injuries, undergo a medical exam.
