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Top Reasons a Winter Car Wash Is Good for Your Car

A car can become pretty unsightly in the winter, particularly when driving along snowy roads and after traversing any area covered in salt. If you drive in a cold-weather state you’ve likely seen the results: a messy exterior that is in need of a serious cleaning. Some obvious advantages of doing so include:

Rust Protection
Keeping Parts from Failing
A More Attractive Vehicle

But when temperatures hover around or below freezing, folks are not often keen to leave their homes and head out on the road again. You might even be concerned about the effects a car wash can have on a vehicle in extremely cold weather.

Should You Worry About a Car Wash in Freezing Weather?

When temperatures are frigid, should you even consider taking your car through a car wash? It can certainly be tempting to simply embrace that “winter look” until spring. But there are numerous benefits to washing off the salt and grime – sooner rather than later – on a regular basis.

Determining factors can also include:

The current temperature
Recent weather
Salt accumulation
Heated areas
Hand-dry services

Here are a few simple rules of thumb to help you sort out the best decision for your vehicle:

Reasons You Should Wash Your Car Regularly in Winter

Keeping your vehicle clean in wintertime will help protect it from rust caused by all that salt on the road, not to mention additional salty debris sprayed at you by other vehicles passing by. Rusty ice and grime can end up corroding the undercarriage and even get into the car if you’re not careful.

A good rule of thumb in wintery regions with more extreme weather is to get a car wash every one or two weeks. Naturally, you can make your own call. If you’re out on the road every day in horrible weather, it might be a good idea to go through a car wash more often. But if there hasn’t been any precipitation lately, another trip to the car wash might be unnecessary.

Just remember that after a very snowy day, those damaging elements will build up underneath your car, even if you don’t notice it happening.

When to Put off a Car Wash in Freezing Weather

Sometimes it’s best to exercise discretion before going to the car wash in the winter. For example, is there a heated area to park your vehicle? When it’s extremely cold outside, things can freeze up quickly. You may not be aware that water has accumulated in the locks or door jams of your vehicle. The last thing anyone needs is difficulty entering or exiting their car due to an effort to clean it on a wintry day.

If the temperatures are heading toward the low 30s or lower and there’s no heated space to wait in your vehicle, consider giving it a pass. And if worse comes to worst, a call to a few car washes near you might help determine which one is the safest. One that uses hand towels to dry off each vehicle can be the best option for drivers this time of year.

And as always, use common sense! If you haven’t been out on the road or it’s been an especially dry winter – with minimal road salt used – then yet another wash may not be worth your time and money.

Protect Yourself with Comprehensive Auto Insurance Coverage from AMIGO

There are other potential upsides to driving a vehicle that shines. It makes you more proud to be the owner, for one, and can eventually help boost the resale value. Another reason to put regular car washes on the calendar is that it can be very tempting to hunker down in the warmth of your home, even if your car desperately needs some attention.

Keep in mind that other protections are also important all year round. For most drivers this includes comprehensive insurance protection that matches their needs, as well as the other drivers who may need to use their vehicle.

Talk to an agent at Amigo Auto Insurance to make sure you’re getting the most appropriate insurance package today.

Top Trends in Auto Insurance You Should Know About

Developments in vehicle technology and efficiency are always exciting. But don’t overlook another area that can impact your ability to drive: your auto insurance. A lot is happening in this area, as well. And with so much other car news grabbing our attention, it pays to take a look at trends in the insurance industry that might impact you or even benefit you financially.

With that in mind, below are four major trends in the auto insurance industry that every driver should know about.

1. Pricey Auto Technology Has Impacted Overall Cost of Insurance

Inflation has had an impact on many things. But one factor that may surprise you: the cost of repairing even small, technically advanced systems in vehicles today. Technology is built into everything from engines to electronic sensors to dashboard features. This can make it more expensive to fix or replace parts after a minor collision. Even if your particular vehicle is older, your rates might still be affected by overall trends in auto accidents.

2. There Are Ways to Save Money on Auto Insurance

Fortunately, there are still numerous ways to potentially save money on auto insurance. Plans get priced differently based on a number of factors, such as whether you make payments monthly or annually and what deductible you choose. The Zebra, which tracks auto insurance trends, reported multiple ways drivers have saved on their auto insurance:

“Motorists with usage-based insurance (UBI) policies save about 3% on their car insurance premiums.”
“Raising your deductible from $500 to $1,000 saves an average of 13% on your total insurance rate for the year.”
“A driver who maintained 100/300 liability coverage for five years [might] save 15%.”

While these figures don’t apply to everyone, they are a reminder to ask about discounts, usage-based policies, and other possible ways to save dollars on your plan.

3. Commercial Drivers & Rideshares Like Uber and Lyft May Need Special Coverage

Do you drive as part of your job? More than a third of drivers in the U.S. use rideshare apps, and that number is growing. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have changed how we drive and who makes money using their personal vehicles. Whether you’re a Lyft driver or you use your pickup truck for work, it’s important to be sure you have the right type of coverage. Like other professions that require vehicle usage, your work habits can potentially affect the type of coverage you need.

If you sometimes transport people or goods for work, talk to an insurance agent about commercial insurance coverage to make sure you’re protected. Maybe what you already have is fine. But the last thing you want is to discover after an accident that your plan is insufficient to cover your financial needs.

4. It’s Important to Shop Around for the Most Competitive Insurance Rates

With so many insurance companies out there, it can be a little overwhelming to figure out which one is right for you. Many things – where you live, whether you’ve been in an accident, what car you drive and even your age – can play a role in determining what a company might charge you.

Insurance rates have gone up over the last decade along with other routine expenses. Since drivers are legally obligated to be insured, it makes sense to shop around and get the best coverage and rates for your needs. Once you get multiple quotes from an insurance agent you’ll have a better picture of the options available to you.

Ask About Getting the Best Auto Insurance Coverage at AMIGO This Year

It always feels good to kick off a new year on the right foot, and that includes getting the right insurance coverage to protect all the drivers in your household. An agent at Amigo Insurance will help you find the lowest rates while making sure the necessary bases are covered for you and your whole family. We provide coverage for drivers throughout the Midwest, in Texas, even in Mexico, and as we grow so do our coverage areas.

Contact Amigo Auto Insurance to find the best insurance quotes today.

A driver on the road. They are driving a large car.

Auto Shopping 101: What Add Ons Bump Up the Price of a New Car

Most people buying a new car end up paying more than the sticker price. But buyers should ultimately be in charge of what will bump up the price of a new car. Add-ons are a way to upsell buyers, in addition to providing features that drivers genuinely want.

So how do you avoid overpaying for your new car?

First, determine how much money is in your budget to cover the full cost of owning a new vehicle.
Then, become familiar with features that dealerships sell to car buyers for the model you are considering.
Finally, decide which add-ons are must haves for you – and which are not.

To become more educated on the subject, consider some of the most common ways that dealers bump up the prices of new cars.

Extended Warranties

The extended warranty is a highly common way that car dealers make thousands of extra dollars on sales. However, keep in mind that a warranty may already be included in the cost of a new vehicle. As Kelley Blue Book puts it: “There are reputable companies that offer reliable warranties that can protect you from the cost of unexpected repairs. But there are at least as many, if not more, scammers looking to sell you a virtually useless extended warranty.”

Roof Racks

Unless you plan to strap bicycles or luggage on top of your car before your next road trip, you may want to reconsider this add-on. For one thing, racks can easily be installed on a vehicle after the fact. You may decide that the rear is a more practical location for your bike rack and that you want to find the most appropriate option for your needs.

In addition, a roof rack will add a couple inches to the height of the vehicle. You never know when you’re going to face a tight squeeze when heading toward a tunnel.

Various Types of Protection

Dealerships will often offer options for different types of promotions that can be added to a vehicle after the fact. And in many cases, it is difficult to know how much of a benefit these features will truly provide. If you are new to car shopping, take these offers of better protection with a grain of salt.

Here are some of the added protections, both inside and out, that might bump up the cost of a new car:

Leather protection
Tire and wheel protection
Paint (dent and ding) protection
Fabric protection

Ask About Dealer-Installed Accessories That Are Optional

From the latest in cool auto technology to stolen vehicle recovery, you may find out that certain accessories have already been installed in the vehicle you want to purchase. Take your time to go through the list and determine the cost of any dealer-installed accessories and whether you want to keep them.

Buyers should never feel pressured into buying these items. Salespeople can be skilled at convincing consumers that they need a particular add-on and that the cost is worth it. At the end of the day, you get to decide whether these items are in your budget and what you want included in the final sale.

Talk to an Auto Insurance Agent to Find the Best Deals for You

Add-ons aren’t the only thing that can boost the cost of owning a car. Routine maintenance and repairs, auto insurance, and gas should also be figured into the long-term cost of auto ownership.

Speak with an agent at Amigo Insurance to determine which insurance package is best for your needs. You may even want to have this conversation before buying your new car so you’re aware of what your monthly payments are going to be. Ask about premium options, annual price hikes, and anything else that might help you make a choice that is best for you.

Call Amigo to get a free quote from one of our agents today.

A parked blue car. The car appears to be new and clean.

Best Midwestern Road Trips to Take This Fall

Don’t let summer road trips get all the attention. Tourists and Midwesterners alike should make plans each fall to experience the region’s many scenic, winding roads, nature preserves, and, of course, the changing colors of the radiant fall leaves. The area is rich in history as well as beautiful local routes if you’re looking for a fun autumn drive with friends.

As long as your car is in good shape and you’re fully protected with comprehensive car insurance, then hitting the road for a day or more is an ideal way to experience a whole spectrum of spectacular autumn landscapes.

We have a few ideas on where to get started.

Explore National Scenic Byways in Wisconsin and Beyond

National Scenic Byways offer a variety of attractions, from charming farms and villages to lakes and forest preserves. Some of the most popular byways run from the Upper Peninsula to the Lower Peninsula in Wisconsin. Three to consider include:

U.S. Route 16
Highway 12
Highway 20

What makes these roads special is that they give travelers an opportunity off the beaten path to explore the natural beauty and sites from the comfort of their vehicle. Some wind through forests, past rivers, and over tall bluffs. Others lead through farmland and small historic towns.

The landscape of Wisconsin is known for offering motorists a variety of views, from rolling hills to picturesque villages, particularly this time of year. Whether you are looking for a quiet drive or a challenging adventure, Wisconsin has something for everyone.

Ohio River Scenic Byway

Some of the best drives take place where the roads are winding and intersections are few. But ones like the Ohio River Scenic Byway are known for their historic value as well as the great views. This popular route consists of hundreds of miles of road that traverse through southern Indiana and past amazing views of the Ohio River’s serene shoreline.

In addition to its interesting history, the area features caves to explore, vibrant hillsides, and even limestone bluffs so visitors can get out of their cars, stretch, and do a little hiking.

Take a Beautiful Fall Drive from Indiana to Illinois

Naturally, the Land of Lincoln has many historic spots related to the former president. But while Indiana is known for many things, it sometimes gets overlooked when it comes to autumn beauty. In fact, the state is rich in history and its own unique scenic routes that are worth visiting if you’re looking for something different. Its country roads will take you through the countryside to hilly villages, or through gravel back roads if that’s your style.

In addition, the Midwest is known for its historic bridges, many of which are still in use today. Check out the Tulip Viaduct (Or Tulip Trestle), a historic railroad bridge in Indiana that is one of the longest of its kind in the world.

No matter where you go, miles of beautiful trees will be changing color. Bring friends and family so you can enjoy other activities the area has to offer, from ones out in nature (like hiking, camping, horseback riding and off-road biking) to local food, crafts, and live entertainment.

Get Comprehensive Auto Insurance & A Tuneup Before Your Next Road Trip

Amigo Insurance is located in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Texas, and Mexico, all of which provide beautiful scenery for you and your fellow passengers to enjoy on your next road trip. Speak to an agent so you know you have just what your family needs but aren’t overpaying for unnecessary services.

And don’t forget to give your car some TLC, as well. As lovely as autumn road trips can be, those leaves and debris can break down and make their way into your car if you’re not vigilant about cleaning and routine maintenance. So be sure to give your car a tuneup before and after any major road trips so you know your vehicle is in tip top shape.

At Amigo, one of our agents will provide you with a free quote on the most appropriate coverage for your needs. Ask about the best auto insurance protection to have while on the road.

A parked car surrounded by trees and orange leaves.

What to Know About the Gears in Your Vehicle

Drivers tend to use the same few gears in parts of the country where hills are few and far between. But those other gears do serve a purpose, and it is important for drivers to know what the differences are, both for safety reasons and practical ones.

The typical gear selector in an automatic car includes:

P (Park)
R (Reverse)
N (Neutral)
D (Drive)
S (Sport)
L (Low – sometimes D1, D2, etc.)

In case these weren’t all covered in Drivers Ed, here’s how they might come in handy next time you’re behind the wheel.

When to Use Lower Gears

People who drive on flat, even terrain tend to stick to Drive, the default gear for flat, straight roads. You can shift into L, which puts your car in a lower gear, if you have extra weight in your vehicle or are being towed.

When on steep inclines or declines, automatic cars usually shift to a lower gear for you. Still, shifting into L, D1 or D2 (depending on the vehicle) can help out in hilly areas, or should you venture into mountainous territory. It’s best not to ride your brakes when driving downhill, and being in a lower gear takes the burden off of your brake system. In some cars, D3 exists to add control when roads are wet and slippery or in certain off-road situations.

Check your manufacturer’s manual to find out more about the low gears included in your model.

What About the Sport Gear?

While not necessary, some cars allow you to shift into Sport (S) for a more dynamic feel when driving. This leaves the car in gear for longer periods of time between shifts. Doing so can give you a feel of more power on winding roads when coming out of those turns.

When Should You Put Your Car in Neutral?

Neutral means you are unable to accelerate or reverse but are released from the park position. Shifting to neutral enables your car to move slowly backwards or forwards, which it might do if it is on an incline or because it is being pushed. This gear is usually used when the car is unable to be driven – for example, if it is stuck in snow or needs to be pushed out of mud and back onto a drivable surface. Having the vehicle in neutral protects it from jumping forward in these types of situations, putting you or someone else in danger.

The Left Button and Other Things to Consider When Shifting Gears

Not all gears shift precisely the same way in every car. Many current models have a button on the left that needs to be pushed inwards any time you’re shifting out of park. This is included for safety reasons. Similarly, the button must be pressed to shift from drive into reverse. However, it isn’t intended for shifting between gears that are used when moving forward.

Modern automatic vehicles tend to shift smoothly and seamlessly, with little effort. But the process is quicker on some models than others. You may even notice a slight delay when putting your car in reverse. Drivers should wait a moment after shifting into Reverse or Drive before accelerating to be sure they are fully in the proper gear, and then proceed cautiously.

There’s a reason you don’t want to be too rough on your gear shift. Impatient drivers put more wear and tear on their gears, brakes and other parts of their car, and eventually these parts may need to be replaced. Treating your gear shift with care will help you get a little more mileage out of your vehicle.

Be Sure to Learn the Gears on Your Specific Vehicle

The gear shifts don’t appear the same on every model. A Prius, for instance, shifts gears when you rotate a gear ring near your dashboard. Whether you use a manual stick shift or drive an older automatic model, be sure you know your way around the gear shift. Getting a feel for the gear shifts is also a consideration when shopping around for a new car.

Talk to an Auto Insurance Agent to Get the Best Deal Available

For other important safety questions, talk to an auto insurance agent about getting the most appropriate coverage for your situation. It’s vital to ensure you have all of your bases covered when it comes to car insurance, and an agent at Amigo can help you get the best deal available.

At Amigo, our insurance agents can give you a free quote on the best insurance for your needs today!

Top Reasons People Use Roadside Service

No one gets behind the wheel in the morning thinking this will be the day that car trouble leaves them and their family stuck on the side of the road. Yet some form of malfunction is a highly common reality of being a driver in this country. There are roughly 69 million vehicle breakdowns on roads in the U.S. each year, according to Investopedia. That translates to about a third of all drivers.

The fact is that there are many things that can cause a need for you to pull over and get help. Better to consider the possibility in advance – and be prepared when it comes – then to be caught off guard. Below are some of the main culprits to consider.

Flat Tires

Anyone who has done a lot of driving in their time has likely come across this nuisance at some point. A flat tire is certainly one of the most common, if not the most common, sources of roadside problems. A nail or other sharp object in the road is often the culprit, but there are other causes of flat tires. It can be difficult to navigate around small pieces of debris, making it difficult to avoid the problem.

Oftentimes the tire has a leak that goes undetected until forcing the driver to pull over and get help. Naturally, it helps to know how to change a flat tire. However, it is generally important to have the tire inspected so that it can be repaired or replaced.

Getting Locked Out of Your Vehicle

You may be surprised how many people accidentally lock themselves out of their vehicle. Fortunately, with roadside assistance, this problem can be remedied quickly so you can get back out on the road.

These days, services such as AAA have quick and simple ways of unlocking cars. They have equipment that can bypass a vehicle’s locking system and can even make a copy of a car key in less than an hour. Check out the growing range of security coverage available to drivers today.

Engine Trouble and Other Car Problems

If you suspect there is a problem with your car, it is crucial that you get to the root of the problem as soon as possible. Sometimes a check engine light will force the driver to pull over. If the car is still drivable you can opt to drive to the nearest garage and have it checked out. But an overheated engine or another serious issue can make driving dangerous. Roadside services are often called to tow cars that are experiencing problems that need to be addressed urgently.

To Jumpstart a Dead Battery

Dead or malfunctioning batteries are another common source of calls for roadside help. A car that struggles to start can be the sign of a low-voltage or corroded battery. But drivers often don’t know their battery is on the verge of dying. If you’re stranded somewhere due to battery issues, you’ll want assistance from a nearby service that can provide prompt assistance – either by jump-starting the battery or towing your vehicle somewhere it can be replaced.

Speak to an Auto Insurance Agent to Get Roadside Coverage with Your Plan

While there are still other reasons that drivers use roadside assistance, not everyone needs to opt for a special plan or membership. The decision is up to you. It may depend on how much you drive and your comfort level in handling mechanical issues with your vehicle.

Still, it’s always good to be sure what your insurance plan covers. Ask an auto insurance agent if you’re already covered for roadside assistance. Doing so may give you the peace of mind knowing that you won’t be left stranded somewhere without any options. You may also want to look into membership clubs for drivers to see what other benefits there are out there that you can enjoy.

Contact Amigo insurance to get quotes on the best insurance options, as well as to find out more about roadside assistance coverage. Our agents are ready to answer your questions today!

A woman checking the engine of her car. She is also on the phone.

The Latest in Cool Auto Technology

Technology is always improving in modern vehicles. So much so that it can be hard to keep up with all the lights, symbols and buttons in a new car. Some are designed to protect you and your vehicle – and some are just plain fun.

You may not want all the latest technology in your next vehicle. But it doesn’t hurt to find out what’s available. Modern inventions can be cool or simply beautiful to look at, and some of them also provide convenience, safety, and solutions to people’s driving needs.

Check out the latest technologies that are commonly found in vehicles today:

Ambient Lighting Throughout Your Vehicle’s Interior

Nothing says you love hanging out in your car like cool ambient lights that change colors. Motor Trend explains that these interior (sometimes LED) lights have been mounted around the cabin to enhance different design features. Subtle illumination inside of the car can even be soothing for the driver and passengers. Where might you find these attractive enhancements?

In the foot wells
Near the door and dash trim
Cupholders
Climate control vents
Speaker surrounds

Some options allow you to customize the color of the lighting and even set it to pulsate in time with your audio system. At the very least, it might make it easier to find your cup holder and dashboard controls when driving at night.

Zoned Climate Control Features

Don’t you hate driving with someone who is always cold or hot? Perhaps what you need is a multi-zone climate control feature that addresses the needs of individuals in different parts of the car. They provide different temperature settings for the left and right sides of the car, and possibly also for the front and rear.

The latest climate control features might be just what you need to survive in the unforgiving summer heat.

Blind Spot and Cross Traffic Alerts

More technology is being designed to alert drivers who may be straying out of their lanes and into danger. Here are four crucial things to know about these capabilities:

In newer vehicles, sensors can detect if there is a car or motorcycle in your blind spot and will alert the driver on the side mirrors.
Others will make a noise to let you know you may be out of your lane.
A rear cross-traffic alert uses radar units and noise alerts to let drivers know if someone is approaching.
Meanwhile, a front cross-traffic alert can be helpful if you’re moving out of a blind spot like an alley by alerting you that someone is in your path.

Mobile Apps for Your Car

There’s an app for everything these days, and the same goes for your vehicle. Some of the most popular smartphone apps that drivers use can display key maintenance features and handle a whole range of needs:

Remotely lock and unlock car doors
Check the status of fuel level
Check your tire pressure
Remotely start the vehicle
Tell you how much gas you have left
Alert the remaining range in an EV

Speaking of phones, your next vehicle may offer both wireless connectivity as well as charging for all of your family’s devices.

360-Degree Camera

Want something that could help your teen driver reduce damage to your car?

Some cars today come with cameras on each side of the vehicle. This feature enables the driver to see a near-complete virtual image of their surroundings while driving. This technology can be helpful in any environment where it’s difficult to see what is coming from the right or the left behind you and is particularly helpful when parking a large vehicle. According to Kelley Blue Book, it may also reduce insurance claims from low-speed crashes.

Cool Electric Vehicle (EV) Technology

Your next electric vehicle (EV) may contain yet more cool new features. Some systems enable you to preheat (or pre-cool) your car while it is plugged in and charging. And you might even be able to use some of that battery power to connect to appliances using an adapter.

Be Sure to Protect Your Vehicle with the Best Car Insurance Around

When it comes to insuring your car, there are many options. An agent at AMIGO can help ensure that you have the best plan to protect your whole family. By taking the time to care for your car and get the proper insurance coverage, you can experience a safe and enjoyable driving experience all year long.

Want to find out more about protecting and insuring your vehicle? Call AMIGO Insurance for a FREE quote today!

Heading Out of Town? Here Are Some of the Country’s Best Known Roads

For many people, summer is the time to pack your bags and hit the road with friends, family or solo. As for where to go, the options are endless. The United States is blessed with an impressive network of roads and byways that offer unique opportunities for exploring the country’s natural beauty.

Getting a tuneup and investing in the proper auto insurance coverage are just two ways to prepare for your road trip. You also need a solid plan that your fellow travelers will appreciate! So, whether you’re trekking from California to New York or from Las Vegas to Miami, learn about some of the most popular roads to add to your itinerary that will make your summer road trip memorable and enjoyable for everyone.

Road Tripping in the U.S.: Popular Byways and Routes to Take by Car

Ready to explore the beauty and vastness of an unfamiliar part of the country? Would you rather visit rocky mountains, sandy beaches, or something in between? It’s always wise to do a bit of research beforehand so you know what the road conditions are like, what weather to expect, where to fill up the tank and so forth.

Below are just five of the countless must-visit roads and byways that have the potential to make for a perfect summer road trip:

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California

Regarded as one of the most scenic highways in America, the Pacific Coast highway offers a jaw-dropping view of the Pacific Ocean as you make your way from San Francisco to San Diego. This route will take you through rugged sea cliffs, sandy beaches and small towns that offer incredible opportunities for sightseeing.

2. Route 66, Illinois to California

There’s a lot to say about this iconic route that runs from Illinois to California:

Encompasses over 2,400 miles of America’s heartland
Offers breathtaking views of towering mountains, quaint towns, and open skies
Is full of quirky roadside attractions
Leads to diners, motels, and gas stations that harken back to a bygone era

3. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina, and Virginia

If you are a nature lover, then the Blue Ridge Parkway is the perfect road for you. Running 469 miles through the Blue Ridge Mountains, the parkway offers scenic vistas of the Appalachian Mountains, as well as rivers and wildlife. Take a break and hike one of the many trails that offer awe-inspiring views of the countryside.

4. The Great River Road, Mississippi River

Want to enjoy the scenic views of the Mississippi river? If so, head to the Great River Road. A designated National Scenic Byway, this famous road passes through ten states and offers panoramic views of the Mississippi River, waterfalls, and the rolling hills of America’s heartland.

5. The Loneliest Road, Nevada

Get ready for a unique desert experience that will take you through a journey of geology, history, and rugged beauty!

The Loneliest Road has a special appeal for folks in search of adventure. Running through the vast and barren high desert of Nevada, this multi-day road trip passes through ghost towns, sand dunes, and geothermal pools.

Get Proper Auto Insurance Coverage: Talk to an Agent Before Driving Out of State (or in Another Country)

Be sure to review your insurance policy with your insurance agent to ensure that you have the appropriate coverage for your needs. Generally, the basic components of any auto insurance plan will include these four coverage areas:

Liability Insurance
Collision Coverage
Comprehensive Coverage
Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Where specifically will you be driving? States typically require motorists to carry proper auto insurance coverage, but the rules might differ from place to place – particularly if you’re headed to another country. Wherever you go, you want to be protected should an unexpected incident occur. A qualified insurance agent will let you know if there is any need to update or alter your coverage before leaving.

Once all your bases are covered, you can get behind the wheel and let the adventure begin!

At Amigo, our agents can help you compare quotes and find the best deal before hitting the road. They will guide you toward an excellent auto insurance plan that covers all your needs, no matter where you’ll be. Give us a call today to find out more!

A long road in the desert. The sky is blue with clouds, and the surrounding dry landscape is orange.

Most Important Types of Coverage for Your Vehicle

As the owner of a vehicle, you are probably aware that investing in auto insurance coverage is important. Not only does having the right coverage protect you and your vehicle in case of an accident or unexpected incident, but different coverages can provide many other types of assistance.

However, with so many types of insurance coverage available, it can be difficult to know which options are the most important to include in your plan. In order to make an informed decision, it helps to become familiar with the many forms of coverage that are available on the market. To get you started, here are five of the most important types of insurance coverage you may need for your vehicle.

1. Liability Insurance

Liability insurance is a type of insurance that covers the cost of damage or injury that you may cause to another party while driving your vehicle. This may include damage to their vehicle or property, as well as reimbursement for any medical expenses that might result from an accident.

Almost every state requires some form of liability insurance, so it is important to have this coverage to ensure that you are legally covered. When researching different plans, look for one that covers medical expenses in case of an accident, regardless of fault.

2. Collision Coverage

Collision coverage is another important type of insurance coverage for your vehicle. This type of coverage is designed to help cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it is damaged in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. While this coverage is not required by law, it is important to have if you want to protect your investment in your vehicle.

3. Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage is similar to collision coverage in that it is designed to help cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it is damaged in an incident. However, comprehensive coverage also includes coverage for other incidents, such as:

Theft
Vandalism
And natural disasters

This type of coverage is not typically required by law, but it can still provide valuable protection for your vehicle.

4. Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Unfortunately, not everyone on the road has insurance coverage, which can make it difficult to get compensation if you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist. Uninsured and/or underinsured motorist coverage is designed to help cover the cost of damages and injuries in case you are in an accident with someone who has no or insufficient coverage.

5. Depending on Your Situation, Specialty Coverage Such as Commercial Insurance

Do you frequently drive for work? If so, you may need commercial auto insurance. Talk to an agent about your professional circumstances to find out what you need to be fully covered. There are various criteria that might necessitate a commercial policy, such as:

Driving often for work
Driving people or goods as part of your job
Transporting equipment for professional reasons

Find Out What Auto Insurance Coverage Your State Requires

Investing in these types of insurance coverage for your vehicle can provide you with valuable protection and peace of mind while on the road. Be sure to review your insurance policy and speak with your insurance agent to ensure that you have the appropriate coverage for your needs.

Generally speaking, states require every driver to carry proper auto insurance coverage. Driving without it can cause the driver to face stiff penalties. Speak to an insurance agent in your state if you are in need of insurance or may need to update your coverage.

At Amigo, our agents are ready to help you compare quotes and find the best deal available! They will help you find an excellent insurance plan that covers all your auto needs.

A stressed woman sitting on the ground next to her parked car.

4 Things You Need to Drive Legally

The number of drivers is increasing in the U.S., making it more important than ever for the general public to take steps to operate their vehicle legally and safely. Nearly 90 percent of adults in the country carry a driver’s license, showing just how much we depend on driving to get around.

But you need more than a valid driver’s license to be able to legally operate a vehicle in this country. As the steps – and the timing – for staying up to date with the laws vary state to state, it’s vital to know what the rules are in your area. This knowledge not only keeps drivers from getting penalized and owing fines, but it protects the quality of cars on the road, as well as the environment as a whole.

Take a look at the top four things nearly every driver will need before getting behind the wheel.

1. Getting a Valid Driver’s License – and Keeping it Up to Date

States generally require people to have a valid and current driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle. Driving without one can have serious consequences that may include paying a hefty fine, being arrested and having the infraction on your record. The requirement for carrying a license has multiple purposes:

It shows you are a licensed driver
Designates which class of vehicles you may legally operate
Allows you to drive in any state and even out of the country
Functions as a form of proper documentation and identification for many purposes
Indicates a sense of personal responsibility
Enables you to drive at some point in the future

In some states, driving without a valid license is considered a misdemeanor. Depending on where you live, that might be punishable by jail, and your car could even be impounded. Your driving privileges may also be suspended.

2. Some States Require Passing Vehicle Safety Inspections

Find out what local requirements exist in your area. Certain states require cars to pass auto safety inspections to show that they are in good condition for safe driving. Find out what regulations are mandated in your area and what steps you need to take to pass the inspection. Your car may be tested to:

Ensure driving/operational safety
Ensure proper emissions
Verify your vehicle identification number(VIN)

3. Passing a Routine Emissions Test for Your Car

Most if not all states require that vehicles pass routine emissions tests to indicate they don’t have problems that could harm air quality, and therefore the environment. If you have undergone emissions testing then you are aware it is a quick and easy process that assesses your car for pollutant emissions. If your vehicle fails the emissions, it indicates that one of several problems may be at fault:

Faulty injectors
A problem with the oxygen sensors
An issue with something else that affects vehicle emissions

This test may only be required once every two years, and failing it can be a good thing. As a driver, you want to know if something in your car is not functioning properly. A test will generally outline the reason it failed, allowing you to make the necessary changes and schedule another car inspection.

4. Carrying Proper Auto Insurance Coverage

As a general rule, states require every driver to carry proper auto insurance coverage. Driving

without it can cause individuals to face penalties if they are caught and even cause their license to be suspended. Speak to an insurance agent if you are in need of insurance or may need to update your coverage.

Some drivers avoid carrying insurance out of a fear of making the payments. If this is the case, speak to a professional to find out if there is a low-cost alternative that is within your budget. Keep in mind that failing to carry auto insurance might save you money upfront, but it could end up costing you more in the long run and probably isn’t worth the risk.

At Amigo, our agents are ready to help you compare quotes and find the best deal available! They will help you find an excellent insurance plan that covers all your auto needs.

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