auto insurance | Amigo Insurance

5 Ways to Lower the Cost of Car Ownership That Work

There are various effective ways to lower the cost of car ownership, some of which might get lost in the weeds if you’re too focused on a single approach. At-home workers in places like Chicago who drive minimally may need to make different changes to lower their costs than someone who’s job takes them on the road.

Are there strategies you haven’t explored recently?

1. Lower Your Auto Insurance Premiums

One of the easiest ways to cut down your car costs is to shop around for cheaper car insurance. Overall rates dipped recently, and the cost can vary significantly between insurers, so don’t just auto-renew every year. Get quotes from at least three companies, including multiple estimates per company based on these variables:

Raising your deductible while making sure you can cover the difference in case of an accident
Bundling policies like home and auto or other discounts
Lower rates for safe drivers, students with good grades, or those who take defensive driving courses

To clarify your options, ask the insurance provider what changes you can make that will reduce the company’s risk or demonstrate that you’re a responsible driver, and reward you with better rates.

2. Drive for Optimal Fuel Efficiency

Gas adds up fast, but small changes in driving habits and maintenance can make a noticeable difference. Anything that reduces the strain on your engine should make the vehicle operate more efficiently, causing your car to use less fuel and your gas dollars go further.

Keep your tires properly inflated, since underinflated ones can reduce fuel economy by up to 3%.
Drive smoothly, avoid rapid acceleration and heavy braking, and use cruise control on highways to maintain consistent speed.
Remove excess weight from your car, like unused roof racks or heavy gear in the trunk.

3. Consider Refinancing Your Auto Loan

If your credit score has improved or interest rates have dropped since you bought your car, refinancing your auto loan could save you a lot of money. By switching to a new loan with a lower interest rate, you should be able to cut your monthly payments and reduce the total amount you pay over time, since less interest will accumulate over the life of the loan. Even shaving off 1-2% could translate into hundreds of dollars saved. Just check for any prepayment penalties on your current loan before making the switch.

4. Address Other Wasteful Driving Habits

If you already have the best loan and insurance rates and fuel-efficient habits, the next best solution may be simply to drive less, at least for now. Is it necessary to drive to run all of your errands? Try combining tasks so you’re making fewer trips in your vehicle. If you commute every day, choose one day a week to use public transportation. If you have been carting the kids around to all their extracurriculars, see if they can carpool with their friends or go by other means.

Other tactics worth trying:

Focus on safety to avoid accidents and limit wear and tear on your vehicle.
Avoid going over 60 mph, at which point AAA says most vehicle’s fuel efficiency peaks.
Lease a cheaper, less flashy vehicle if you habitually lease costly models.
Trade in your gas guzzler for a smaller, less expensive ride.

5. Do Maintenance and Repairs in a Cost-Effective Manner

Preventative maintenance might feel like a chore, but it’s a major money-saver in the long run. Stick to your car’s service schedule for things like oil changes, brake checks, and fluid replacements. Catching problems early helps avoid big, expensive breakdowns. Perhaps you could learn to do simple fixes yourself – like changing the air filters, wiper blades, or spark plugs.

When repairs do come up, always get a second quote. Being proactive keeps your car in good shape longer, which means fewer costly surprises and a better resale value down the line.

Get a Free Quote from AMIGO Insurance to Lower Your Auto Rates

At Amigo, we know that the cost to fix or replace a vehicle can add up quickly. That’s why we help drivers access low-cost auto insurance that can still protect them financially.

Get a FREE QUOTE today and find out how much you could be saving ASAP!

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.

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.

Commercial Auto Insurance 101

Are you launching a delivery business or some other enterprise that requires a lot of driving? The need for commercial auto insurance is on the rise due to a growing number of commercial vehicles throughout the U.S. You, too, will likely need an auto policy that provides insurance coverage specifically designed for business use.

Commercial and personal auto insurance have similarities, but there are significant differences. Generally, commercial auto policies are tax-deductible and have higher liability limits since business vehicles tend to need more protection. They also can cover vehicles not owned by the company, like if an employee drives their own car for work. However, whether to expand your personal plan or get a commercial one will depend on the kind of driving you do and several other factors.

Why Get Commercial Auto Insurance?

You may need a commercial policy if you:

Transport people or goods for cash.
Accrue lots of miles for work, whether by delivering food, driving clients or visiting job sites.
Transport tools, equipment or other items for professional reasons.

Due to the high number of miles on the road, the accident rate for commercial fleets is roughly 20 percent. Year after year, the likelihood of an accident adds up. That figure alone should convince businesses to make sure their vehicles have sufficient coverage. A solid plan might include liability, collision and comprehensive, medical payments (or personal injury protection) and coverage for uninsured motorists.

Sometimes the smaller details can determine not just whether you need commercial insurance, but what types of coverage should be in your plan. When you speak to an insurer, be prepared to answer questions about how you use business-related vehicles, who will be driving them, and whether you plan to drive your own car for business purposes.

What Liability Protection Does Commercial Auto Insurance Usually Provide?

Commercial auto insurance can offer a broad range of liability protection – which covers you for claims filed due to injuries and damage to people, property or both. A policy typically includes:

Liability coverage – Bodily injury and property damage liability, to pay for injuries, deaths, or property damage if a driver causes an accident while working. It may also pay for legal fees.
Medical payments – To cover the medical expenses of the driver and any passengers in case of an accident, regardless of fault.
Comprehensive and collision coverage – In case of vehicle damage from theft, vandalism, damage if your vehicle is hit by an object or another car, and other potential sources of damage.
Uninsured motorist coverage – To cover the cost of treating injuries and/or repairing property damage caused by an uninsured or hit-and-run driver. It may also cover you if the insurance of the at-fault driver is insufficient to cover all expenses.

Get the Commercial Auto Policy That Matches Your Specific Role

Getting the right policy for your job can be a little more involved than selecting a personal policy. There are often other kinds of protection to consider that take into account the details of your work role. To be sure you have the appropriate coverage, it may help to find out what other people in your field typically carry. Other options include:

Products-completed operations – Liability protection (damages and legal expenses up to your policy’s limit) if an injury results from something your company made or service your company provided
Products liability – To protect your company against lawsuits from product-related injury or accidents
Contractual liability – To cover any liability you might assume by entering into contracts with other entities
Miscellaneous coverage – For anything else that may be required, from borrowed equipment, liquor liability, and non-owned vehicles (such as watercraft) to legal defense costs and advertising injury

Do any of your workers use their business vehicles in their personal life? The name of the business should appear on the policy as the “principal insured” rather than your name. This will avoid possible confusion if you need to file a claim or a claim is filed against you.

What About Insurance for Rideshares?

If you plan to drive for a rideshare – or a similar business – check with the specific company to find out what coverage rules are required. The message to drivers on Uber’s website, for instance, is that the company maintains commercial auto insurance on drivers’ behalf, but also that “expanding your personal auto insurance to include rideshare and delivery insurance coverage could help protect you even more.” In other words, you may still need additional protection.

But personal auto insurance carriers offer additional rideshare/delivery coverage options for certain lines of work, so commercial auto insurance isn’t necessarily required. Ask your insurance agent to explain all the differences and options.

At Amigo, we have additional information about the different options for commercial auto policies.  Get a free quote here today or call us at 773-847-9000, where our agents are ready to help.

A driver holding a paper bag out of their car window.

6 Ways to Lower Your Car Insurance Costs

These days, it seems like everything is getting more and more expensive; cars included. Due to rising vehicle costs, insurance rates often follow suit. And while it doesn’t seem like this trend will end soon, there are many different things you can do to help lower your rates and help you save.

Compare Costs Before Purchasing your Vehicle

Before you buy that shiny, new 2018 model, look into insurance costs. Premiums are partially based on your vehicle’s price, how much it costs to repair or replace it, and safety. For example, did you know that vehicles with high crash test scores ~usually~ get lower rates? Be sure to consider all these elements when it comes to deciding which vehicle to get. However, if you do go for that newer model, know that your insurance costs might land on the higher side.

Shop Around (We can help with that!)

Once you’ve found the perfect vehicle, it’s time to shop around and find the right company. This can be a little intimidating, especially if you’re not familiar with fancy insurance terminology. Luckily, there are companies that can do all the work for you. At Amigo Insurance, for example, our specialized agents can help you find the right policy for the right price. All you have to do is Call Us, Quote Online, or Visit an Office to get a personalized search.

Maintain a Good Credit Score

Maintaining a good credit score should be a no-brainer. Not only does a good credit score affect credit applications, but insurers often use this information when pricing your auto policy. To maintain a good score, be sure to pay your bills on time, keep your credit balances low, and don’t take out any more than you absolutely need.

Purchase your Homeowners and Car Insurance from the Same Company

In some instances, insurers may cut you some slack if you buy more than one policy with them. Similarly, if you insure two or more vehicles with the same company, you may also see a reduction. Be sure to ask your agent about this to confirm it can be applied to your case.

Opt for Higher Deductibles

Deductibles are the amount you have to pay before an insurance policy kicks in. When purchasing your insurance, you can always ask for a higher deductible in order to save down the line. As Investopedia puts it, “the lower the deductible, the higher your annual premium. Conversely, the higher the deductible, the lower the premium”. Ask your agent about this option and see if this is something you could benefit from doing.

Get those Discounts!

Oftentimes companies can offer discounts to policyholders who haven’t been in an accident or have had a violation in a certain number of years. In addition, by taking a defensive driving course, insurers can also offer a discount – but if your reason for taking a course is solely for that discount, make sure to ask your agent/company if this is something that’s available.

Planning Your Cross Country Trip: Update Your Auto Insurance

When it comes to getting ready for a long road trip, there are many things vehicle owners need to think about. This is a good time to get the car tuned up, and the oil changed. It is also a good time to discuss the needs for new tires.

Aside from this, it also pays to invest some time into updating your auto insurance. The simple step of calling your car insurance agent and adjusting your policy may be able to provide you with exceptional benefits and lots of protection.

What You Need to Consider

Before a long trip, speak to your auto insurance agent about your current coverage. Here are a few things to talk about first.

Contact your auto insurer. Inquire about added protection your car may benefit from when you travel out of state. Discuss any concerns you may have.
Do you have enough insurance to cover your vehicle from collisions, storm damage, theft and vandalism? Now is a good time to invest in comprehensive and collision insurance. These types of coverage can help you
You may wish to up your liability insurance. Having the bare minimum insurance is not always enough for high risk driving like this.

Your agent may make suggestions to you as well. The key here is to be sure you have a considerable amount of protection against the most likely risks.

Think About the Extras, Too

There are various ways to customize your auto insurance to better meet your needs. For example, you may wish to choose insurance that also adds towing coverage. That way, you do not have to worry about an accident that leaves you stranded in an area that you are not familiar with.

Discuss the options for added protection for your belongings, too. For example, you may be carrying a great deal of belongings with you. This might include your electronics. It may also include any valuables you purchase on the road. The thing is, your car insurance might not cover these items. You might have to turn to your homeowner’s or renters insurance for protection. Ask your agent how to handle such claims should damage to belongings occur.

Every driver needs to make wise decisions before hitting the road. With auto insurance, it usually takes just a phone call to your agent. He or she will work with you to better understand your needs and goals. You will see just how easy it can be to modify your policy to better fit your goals and the current risks. Call us today for a Chicago auto insurance quote.

1. Lower Your Auto Insurance Premiums

2. Drive for Optimal Fuel Efficiency

3. Consider Refinancing Your Auto Loan

4. Address Other Wasteful Driving Habits

5. Do Maintenance and Repairs in a Cost-Effective Manner

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1. Pricey Auto Technology Has Impacted Overall Cost of Insurance

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

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Roof Racks

Various Types of Protection

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Flat Tires

Getting Locked Out of Your Vehicle

Engine Trouble and Other Car Problems

To Jumpstart a Dead Battery

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

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Ambient Lighting Throughout Your Vehicle’s Interior

Zoned Climate Control Features

Blind Spot and Cross Traffic Alerts

Mobile Apps for Your Car

360-Degree Camera

Cool Electric Vehicle (EV) Technology

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

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

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California

2. Route 66, Illinois to California

3. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina, and Virginia

4. The Great River Road, Mississippi River

5. The Loneliest Road, Nevada

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

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What Liability Protection Does Commercial Auto Insurance Usually Provide?

Get the Commercial Auto Policy That Matches Your Specific Role

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Compare Costs Before Purchasing your Vehicle

Shop Around (We can help with that!)

Maintain a Good Credit Score

Purchase your Homeowners and Car Insurance from the Same Company

Opt for Higher Deductibles

Get those Discounts!

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