We had a first-time client approach us the other week without coverage for a quote. They had not driven their car for a couple of weeks and had let their insurance lapse. It was an eye-opening experience for them.
Continuous coverage is important for auto insurance for several reasons:
Gaps cost money: If you let your auto insurance coverage lapse, even for a short period, it can result in a coverage gap. A coverage gap means that there is no insurance in place during that time. Insurance companies may view coverage gaps unfavorably, resulting in higher premiums when you reinstate your policy or even difficulty in obtaining coverage in the future. With the hard market, insurance companies are less likely to accept a driver with a gap in coverage.
Legal Requirement: In Washington State, having auto insurance liability is mandatory by law. Continuous coverage ensures that you meet this legal requirement and avoid any penalties or fines that may be imposed for driving without insurance.
Personal Protection: Auto insurance provides liability coverage for injuries or damage caused to others in an accident. Continuous coverage ensures that you have this protection in place consistently, minimizing the risk of facing a significant financial burden due to an unforeseen event.
Financial Protection: An important question to ask is how much you want to pay out of pocket before the insurance company starts to pay. When you move beyond liability coverage, auto insurance provides financial protection against potential losses and damage resulting from accidents, theft, vandalism, or other covered events. It is why we recommend talking with an agent so that you understand the coverage in an insurance policy prior to purchasing.
Uninterrupted Benefits: Some auto insurance companies offer additional benefits or discounts based on continuous coverage. These benefits can include lower premiums, loyalty rewards, accident forgiveness, or coverage extensions. By maintaining continuous coverage, you can take advantage of these benefits over time.
It’s important to note that the specific requirements and benefits of continuous coverage may vary depending on your insurance provider, local regulations, and the terms of your policy. It’s always recommended to review your insurance policy and consult with your insurance agent to understand the details of continuous coverage in your specific situation.
As an independent insurance agency in Central Washington when policies come up for renewal, we like to review and shop for lower rates. Time is your friend in this case as we are able to find new carriers as you have established continuous liability with your auto insurance
