Test driving a vehicle is suppose to be a fun experience where you learn whether you could see yourself owning a particular vehicle. However, it’s necessary to understand what happens in the unfortunate event that you get into an accident during the test drive. Like most questions regarding auto insurance and personal liability, it’s hard to get a specific answer without talking to a knowledgeable person. Oliver Insurance serves the Canby, OR area and is able to provide more precise answers based on where you live and the insurance coverage you have.

Most of the time, if you’re test driving a vehicle, the dealership should have an insurance policy that protects every vehicle on its car lot. This holds true whether you’re test driving a new or used automobile. Because a test drive is usually only a short distance trip, the chance of an accident is low, and the dealership doesn’t mind using its insurance to cover any damage that may result from an accident that you’re involved in. However, if the dealership believes that the accident was your fault, then the company may try to get your insurance provider to cover the damage. For example, if a dealership sees a driver come in to test drive a high-powered sports car and notices that the driver speeds off the lot, the dealership is much more likely to try to pursue reimbursement for the damage to its vehicle in the case of an accident, especially if the accident appears to be the driver’s fault.

In conclusion, you’re most likely safe if you get into an accident while test driving a dealership’s car. However, because each situation is different, you can get more accurate answers to any questions you may have by contacting Oliver Insurance, which serves the Canby, OR area. Many situations are slightly different depending on where you live, which is why it’s important to talk with someone who has specialized knowledge about the area you live in.

When it comes to buying auto insurance, many variables should be considered. Ideally, you want enough coverage if it’s needed, but not so much that you go broke paying for it. Additionally, it is important to ensure that you meet legal requirements.  

State Requirements

Almost every state in the U.S. now requires automobile liability insurance coverage; New Hampshire is the only state that does not make it mandatory. The State of Oregon requires minimum liability coverage in the amounts of $25,000/$50,000/$20,000. This means your Canby, OR policy includes coverage of $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident, and $20,000 per crash for property damage. Oregon law also mandates personal injury protection of $15,000 per person, and uninsured motorist’s coverage. 

What You Drive 

Aside from liability insurance, covering your vehicle in case of an accident or theft is prudent. The type of vehicle you drive should guide you to the proper coverage amounts. For instance, you don’t need as much insurance for a ten-year-old Buick as you would for a new Lexus.  Theft rates and collision repair costs are higher on newer vehicles and certain makes. You want to be sure you have adequate coverage in the event of a total loss.  Also, if your vehicle is financed or leased, GAP (loan-lease payoff) insurance is inexpensive, but a valuable add-on to your coverage.  

Resources 

Your personal resources are another consideration. If a car accident or theft would devastate your finances, carrying additional coverage, and keeping your deductibles low,  is wise. On the flip side, if you could absorb a loss of several thousand, raise your deductibles and pocket the money you save on premiums. Talk to the experts at Oliver Insurance in Canby, OR for guidance. 

There are some auto insurers out there who are allowing drivers to use telematics devices or auto trackers to possibly earn an auto insurance discount. The tracker can determine how many miles the car is driven, where the car is driven and if the driver is following safety laws, such as speed limits. If you are considering one of these devices to get a discount, here is some information you need to know.

Your Insurance Rate Can Actually Increase

One of the downsides, aside from giving up your privacy, is that your auto insurance rates can actually increase if you use one of these devices. If the insurance company sees that you frequently travel to an area with high car theft rates or accident rates or you are driving in what they view an unsafe manner, they have the right to increase your rate. So while you may be hoping for a decrease, you could actually end up with an increase.

Good Driver is an Arbitrary Term

Another downside is that good driver is an arbitrary term and only the insurance company knows exactly how they use the data to determine if you are a good driver and qualify for the discount. Some people may use the device only to find out that they don’t get any additional discount because the software doesn’t deem them a good driver.

If You Qualify, the Discounts Can be Substantial

While there are several downsides to using a tracker, there is a huge upside. If you qualify for the discount, the discount is often a substantial one. Some insurers will offer as much as 25 percent off your auto insurance rates if you use the tracker and use safe driving habits. If you are on a tight budget, this may make it a great deal for safe drivers.

If you are interested in learning more about telematics devices or are looking for alternative ways to possibly save on your auto insurance policy, contact Oliver Insurance, serving the greater Canby OR area. Stop by our office or call us to set up an appointment now.