HOW TO CANCEL YOUR CAR INSURANCE AND WHAT DRIVERS SHOULD CONSIDER
HOW TO CANCEL YOUR CAR INSURANCE AND WHAT DRIVERS SHOULD CONSIDER
If you're a driver considering canceling your car insurance policy, the first thing you should know is – we get it. Whether you're moving out of the state, switching to another provider or getting rid of your car, you'll find absolutely no judgments from us. We pride ourselves on our ability to make all parts of the auto insurance process quick and painless, and that extends to cancelations.
But before you do anything, you should know a few important things:
- You are always allowed to change your insurance coverages AND limits at any time – even if it's not actually close to your policy renewal date (as long as you continue to carry the legally required coverages and limits and any additional coverage required by your lender or leasing company).
- You're also entitled to a refund of the unused portion of your paid premium if your policy is cancelled before the expiration of the current term. That's money that will go right back into your pocket. Your refund may be subject to a small "short rate" penalty depending on the rules of the insurance company that issued the policy.
- Whatever you do, make sure that you stay continuously insured because an accident can happen at anytime. If you're canceling to move to another provider, for example, DO NOT cancel until your new coverage is in effect. Gaps in coverage like this could cause you problems when you hunt for a new policy in the future, and often result in higher premiums.
- Keep in mind that driving without insurance is illegal in almost every state. Even in the states with no car insurance requirement, foregoing coverage is never a good idea. If you are found at fault for causing an accident, you will be held liable for the costs. This is NOT a risk worth taking.
Whether you’re shopping around, looking for a great deal, or just switching things up, there are other important questions to ask yourself if you’re thinking about canceling your insurance. Figuring out the answers could help you save money and keep you protected with an adequate level of insurance.
Why Did My Rate Go Up Without Warning?
Many people don't realize that life changes, even small ones, can affect the cost of their car insurance. If you just bought a new car, it may be more expensive to insure than your old one – switching to another company isn't likely to change that. But at the same time, that new car may have safety features that your old car did not have, like lane-departure monitors, sensors and other collision systems that we don't know about. Give us a call and let us know so that you can take advantage of any new savings opportunities that you're entitled to with your new car. This may allow us to adjust your premium closer to the level you're used to.
Likewise, if you financed the purchase of your new car or you are leasing your car, you will probably be required by your lender or leasing company to carry coverages that aren't state-mandated – like Comprehensive and Collision. If you did not already have those coverages, adding them can raise your premium regardless of the company you insure with.
Always keep in mind that your driving history is one of the most critical factors that determine the price you pay for insurance. If you recently got a speeding ticket on your way to work, or you caused an accident, your price will probably increase at your next renewal. You may be able to offset that increase to some extent by taking a state-approved defensive driving course. At Plymouth Rock, we are proud to offer discounts to drivers who successfully complete one of these classes. Ask us for a list of approved courses.
Recently married? New driver in your house? Did you move to a different city or town? All of these changes can affect your rates. Newlyweds who combined their insurance or parents who’ve recently added a young driver will certainly see changes to their overall premium. If you’re in the first camp, think about bundling your policies once you get back from your honeymoon – adding a renters or homeowners policy with the same company can help you save. Parents: if your child is a good student (B or better average), all you need to do is send us a copy of their latest report card for a discount!
The list goes on. If you’re wondering why your premium has gone up, start thinking about recent life changes or other events. There could be something there that explains your situation.
Coming up empty? Your local agent or Plymouth Rock insurance professional will be more than happy to help you re-evaluate your coverage to help you save money. Give us a call.
Are You Comparing Apples to Oranges?
If you’re shopping around, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting exactly the same coverage. Look sharp when you’re quoting – many companies will set default coverage levels that may not be the same (or even lower) than what you have now.
It’s entirely possible the new insurance you just quoted is for much less coverage. So, are you really saving if you have to pay more later? Read more about comparing policies, or learn more about lowering your insurance costs.
You’ll also want to consider all of the benefits you have right now, which are baked into your coverage at no extra cost and can make your life significantly easier. They include:
- Get Home Safe® taxi ride reimbursement
- Door to Door Valet Claims Service®
- Guaranteed repairs
- Crashbusters® mobile claims service
Call Us to Cancel Your Insurance
As always, if you'd like to chat about why you're unhappy with your current policy or rates (if you are) – whether it's our policy or another company's – or if you'd like to see if there are any additional ways to save money, we encourage you to give us a call at Plymouth Rock today. You'll find no "hard sell" from us. We just want to make sure you have all the information you need to make the best possible decision.
If, at the end of our conversation and full review of your account, you'd still like to proceed with cancelation of your Plymouth Rock policy – don't worry, we'll take care of that as well. We'll be sorry to see you go, and hope you'll consider us again in the future.
