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.

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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:

  1. 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.
  2. Others will make a noise to let you know you may be out of your lane.
  3. A rear cross-traffic alert uses radar units and noise alerts to let drivers know if someone is approaching.
  4. 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!

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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:

  1. It shows you are a licensed driver
  2. Designates which class of vehicles you may legally operate
  3. Allows you to drive in any state and even out of the country
  4. Functions as a form of proper documentation and identification for many purposes
  5. Indicates a sense of personal responsibility
  6. 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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Most Common Misconceptions about Electric Vehicles (EVs)

You’ve probably heard a lot about electric vehicles (EVs) lately – and have likely seen one or two of them on the road. Yet there are still a lot of misconceptions about EVs that can make it hard to know whether buying one is even feasible, let alone a good decision for you and your family.

Car shopping always requires a bit of research, especially as automakers introduce more battery cars and plug-in hybrid options. Below, check out some of the most common myths about EVs. In most cases, what you’ll find is that the truth is nuanced, and public perceptions may still be catching up with lower costs and advancements in technology.

Myth 1: EVs Are Too Expensive to Buy and Maintain.

There is no denying that buying an EV can be a hefty investment up front. But they are often cheaper to maintain than traditional gas-powered cars over time. This is because electric cars:

  • Don’t require oil changes
  • Won’t need exhaust system work
  • Lack a need for other repairs associated with gas-powered cars
  • Are immune to rises in gas prices

The battery may need to be replaced eventually, but this cost should be far less than what you would pay for regular maintenance on a gas-powered vehicle over the years.

Best of all, many states offer tax incentives and discounts when it comes to purchasing an EV. Take a look at the Qualified Plug-In Electric-Drive Motor Vehicle Tax Credit to see how much you can save. Also, find out what aid is available in your area to see if it will bring down the price of a car enough for it to be affordable for you.

Myth 2: Charging Takes Too Long and Is Inconvenient.

When it comes to charging your EV, you can choose between plugging it into a home charger or using public charging stations. Home chargers usually provide power faster than public charging stations, which can take 30 minutes or more depending on the needs of your particular vehicle.

However, most people don’t need to charge their cars all the way before taking off – just enough for their daily commute. So if you’re only going out for errands or small trips throughout the day, then charging won’t be as big of an issue as you think! This is one area where developments are continuously making the situation easier and more accessible for EV drivers.

Myth 3: EVs Aren’t as Powerful as Gas-Powered Engines.

Ever heard of Formula E, an all-electric auto race? Times are changing. This myth has been somewhat debunked, since electric sports cars began outperforming some of their competitors in terms of speed and acceleration.

If you’re looking for power, you may still end up with a traditional gas guzzler. But many electric cars now come with just as much torque as their gasoline counterparts.

True: Electric and Hybrid Cars Are Getting Easier to Purchase and Own

The good news is that EVs are becoming more affordable each year. For example, according to Car and Driver, a 2022 all-electric Nissan Leaf costs $28,495, well below what a similar car would have cost a decade ago. It’s one reason more drivers than ever are seriously considering buying or leasing a hybrid or electric vehicle. They are particularly popular among people who want better performance without sacrificing power or efficiency.

Talk to an AMIGO Insurance Agent About Getting Low-Cost Coverage for Your Car

Advancements in technology are making EVs increasingly powerful, even when compared to traditional gas-powered engines. As more folks demand solutions that are better for our environment, they are turning toward a growing list of efficient yet reliable EVs.

If there have been any changes in your family’s driving circumstances, contact an auto insurance agent as soon as possible to ensure you have all the protection you need.

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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How to Protect Your Vehicle Throughout the Winter

Winter is a challenging time for any vehicle in most parts of the country, from New England to San Francisco, but especially where the temperatures can dip below freezing. To protect your car from the harsh winter elements, it is important to take proactive steps that will help you stay safe throughout the months ahead.

Some steps you can take will help ensure that your battery and engine remain strong if left outside in the cold. No one wants to be stranded on the side of the road, especially in wintertime. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that all auto fluids are able to function properly. You may have to change your oil if you haven’t done so in recent months, and getting a good winter grade oil can come in handy in colder parts of the country.

Why Driving in the Cold Is Hard on Cars – and What to Keep in Your Vehicle for Extra Protection Against the Elements

Driving in cold, harsh weather can cause wear and tear to your car and, if left unchecked, could result in costly repairs. Because tires can skid on icy roads, it’s especially vital to keep an eye on your tires this time of year. Fortunately, there are fairly simple steps you can take to help your vehicle stand the test of winter weather. For example, keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure and check their treading for any wear and tear. If they need to be rotated or replaced, now is a good time to get that done. Additionally, it is important to check your oil levels regularly and make sure the windshield wipers are functioning correctly.

Protecting your vehicle from winter damage can be an ongoing challenge. To be on the safe side, drivers in colder regions should keep a winter emergency kit in the car with items such as a first aid kit, flashlights, candles, blankets, water, and non-perishable food. A professional mechanic will be able to take a look at your vehicle to see if there is any routine maintenance needed to keep your car in tip-top condition before heading out into the snow.

What Are the Best Proactive Measures for Drivers in Cold, Icy Weather?

With winter already upon us, here is a checklist to help you determine whether your vehicle is fully prepared for the snowy season. While it may not be comprehensive, it is still a good place to start.

1. Most Common Auto Winterization

Let’s start with the basics. Winterizing begins with keeping up with your car’s maintenance schedule. This includes:

  • Making sure that the battery is in good condition
  • Checking the antifreeze levels
  • Ensuring that all the lights are working properly

Depending on where you live, investing in some snow tires may help provide better traction if the roads tend to get icy and dangerous. Finally, it is important to check your vehicle’s antifreeze levels routinely, as antifreeze helps keep your engine from freezing when it is cold outside.

2. Avoid Costly Repairs and Replacements

Another reason it is important to prepare your vehicle for the winter months is to avoid costly repairs or replacements. One way to do this is to make sure your vehicle’s tires are properly inflated and have a good tread. Checking the fluid levels, including oil and antifreeze, and adding extra antifreeze if necessary, can also help keep your car in good condition during the colder months.

3. What Else to Check

One of the most important steps to protecting your vehicle from the elements is to check your brakes, tires and lights. Checking your brakes helps ensure that your vehicle functions properly and safely on icy and wet roads. Additionally, checking the tire pressure regularly during winter months is important for maintaining efficient driving and avoiding getting stuck in the snow.

Finally, it is important to wash your vehicle regularly to remove road salt that can cause damaging rust and corrode the undercarriage. Inspect the body to make sure there are no rust spots that could cause problems if they are not treated or patched up.

Be Protected by Comprehensive Auto Insurance Coverage at AMIGO

Each year, it is essential to take precautionary measures to protect your vehicle, no matter where you live. And having the right kind of auto insurance coverage should be part of your winter maintenance plan. Make sure you have comprehensive auto coverage for you and your family, including liability insurance and other appropriate coverage, to ensure all your needs are met. That way, if there is an accident or unforeseen event involving your vehicle, you can rest assured knowing the costs of any repairs will be covered.

This winter, be sure you have an excellent insurance plan that covers all your driving needs! Contact Amigo Auto Insurance today to speak with an agent who can help you compare quotes and find the best deal for you today.

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