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Why Do Car Insurance Companies Check Your Credit?
When people think about their credit score, they usually associate it with qualifying for a mortgage, a car loan, or a credit card. However, your credit score can also influence how much you pay for car insurance. Many drivers are surprised to learn that insurers use credit-based insurance scores when determining premiums—often with a significant impact on the final price. Why Do Car Insurance Companies Check Your Credit? Insurance providers use a variety of factors to assess how much risk you pose as a policyholder. These factors typically include your driving history, age, vehicle type, location, and, yes, your credit score. The reasoning behind this is statistical: studies have shown…
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Understanding Car Insurance in Central Oregon: What Drivers Need to Know
Navigating the landscape of car insurance in Central Oregon can be complex, especially with the region’s unique driving conditions and diverse communities. Whether you’re commuting through Bend, cruising the scenic highways near Redmond, or living on the quieter roads of Prineville, having the right Central Oregon car insurance policy is essential for peace of mind and financial protection. Why Car Insurance is Crucial in Central Oregon Central Oregon’s roads can vary dramatically depending on the season. Harsh winter weather, icy highways, and rural backroads all present different risks. That’s why choosing an insurance policy tailored to the area’s challenges is vital. The state of Oregon mandates liability insurance, but many…
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Smart Summer Savings: The Best Ways to Save Money on Car Insurance This Summer
As the summer months roll in, many drivers hit the road for vacations, trips, and weekend getaways. While the season brings sunshine and adventure, it can also get an unexpected rise in expenses—from gas prices to vehicle maintenance. One area where savvy consumers can find real savings is car insurance. You can reduce your premiums by taking a few proactive steps without sacrificing coverage. Here’s how to save money on car insurance during the summer months. 1. Review and Adjust Your Coverage Summer is a great time to re-evaluate your current auto insurance policy. Many people carry more coverage than they need, especially on older vehicles. For example, suppose your…
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10 Ways to Save Money on Gas During the Summer
With summer road trips, vacations, and higher car gas prices often hitting simultaneously, many drivers feel the pinch at the pump. Fortunately, there are several easy and effective ways to stretch your fuel dollars during the hotter months. Here are 10 practical tips to help you save money on gas this summer. 1. Drive Smoothly and Avoid Rapid Acceleration Sudden starts and hard braking waste fuel. Accelerate gradually and try to anticipate traffic conditions to avoid unnecessary stops. Smooth driving can improve fuel efficiency by as much as 30% on the highway and 10% in city traffic. 2. Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, requiring your…
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What to Do After a Fender Bender: Car Insurance Tips to Keep in Mind
Even the most cautious drivers can find themselves in a fender bender. While minor accidents might not result in serious injuries, they can still be stressful and confusing, especially when handling insurance. Knowing what steps to take immediately after a minor collision can make a big difference in ensuring your safety, protecting your rights, and speeding up the claims process. Here are essential tips on what to do after a fender bender. 1. Stay Calm and Check for Injuries after a fender bender First and foremost, stay calm. Take a deep breath and assess the situation. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately.…
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What Happens When You Have a Lapse in Car Insurance?
A lapse in car insurance occurs when there is a period of time—whether it’s a day or several months—during which your auto insurance coverage is not active. This gap in coverage can have serious legal, financial, and personal consequences, depending on the duration and the circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of what happens when your car insurance lapses and why it’s important to avoid it. Legal Consequences Most states in the U.S. require drivers to carry a minimum amount of car insurance coverage, typically liability insurance. If your insurance policy lapses and you are caught driving without coverage, you could face penalties such as fines, license suspension, and vehicle registration revocation.…
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Is It Safe to Drive a Compact Car?
Thinking of buying a compact car? Compact cars are popular for their affordability, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability, especially in urban environments. However, one common concern among drivers is whether compact cars are as safe as larger vehicles. The answer depends on multiple factors, including crash safety ratings, modern safety features, and driving conditions. Compact Car – Crash Safety and Size Considerations One of the main safety concerns with compact cars is their smaller size and lighter weight. In collisions with larger vehicles, compact cars may be disadvantaged due to physics—larger vehicles typically absorb impact better and provide more crumple space. However, modern compact cars have significantly improved in crashworthiness. Many…
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Car fires – Does car insurance cover them?
Car fires are rare but devastating, causing significant damage or total loss. If your car catches fire, you may wonder whether your car insurance will cover the damage. The answer depends on the type of insurance coverage you have and the cause of the fire. Car Fires And Care Insurance Comprehensive Coverage If you have comprehensive insurance, your car is covered against fire damage, regardless of how the fire started. Comprehensive insurance is optional but is typically required if you have a loan or lease on your car. It covers a variety of non-collision incidents, including theft, vandalism, natural disasters, and fires. Collision Coverage Collision insurance covers damages to your…
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5 Factors That Influence the Cost of Car Repairs
Car repairs are one of those unavoidable expenses that can catch you off guard. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a more serious accident, the cost to fix your vehicle can vary widely. So, what actually determines how much you’ll pay when your car is in the shop? Here are five key factors that impact the cost of car repairs: 1. Make and Model of the Vehicle One of the biggest determinants is the type of car you drive. Luxury brands like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz tend to have higher repair costs because they often require specialized parts and expert technicians. Even within the same brand, newer or more…
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Does Central Oregon Car Insurance Cover Medical Expenses?
Does car insurance also cover medical expenses? This is a top question that every driver has. It’s an essential safeguard for drivers in Central Oregon, but many people are unclear about whether their policy covers medical expenses in the event of an accident. The answer depends on your coverage type, Oregon’s insurance laws, and the specifics of your policy. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about your auto insurance coverage and ensure you’re adequately protected in an accident. Understanding Personal Injury Protection (PIP) in Oregon Oregon is a fault-based state for car accidents, meaning that the driver responsible for the accident is typically required to pay for…
