When shopping for a new vehicle, you should also be shopping for auto insurance to help protect your new asset. For many people, buying coverage before driving off the lot with your new car is the wisest decision.

How Soon Do I Need Insurance After Buying a Car?

You may be eager to hit the road with your new car, but driving without insurance is risky business. It's usually best to insure your vehicle before driving it home.

Accidents can happen at any time. Even a short drive from the dealership to your home is enough time for the worse to happen.

If you have auto insurance on another vehicle, you may not have to buy a plan before driving off the lot. Many insurance companies and states offer a grace period for new vehicles. During this time, your existing policy's coverage will also cover a new car during the grace period (usually somewhere between 7 and 30 days). This is not always the case though, so it's important you check the details of your policy or speak with your insurance agent to find out what your policy includes.

Also keep in mind that dealerships and/or lenders may require proof of insurance before they let you take the car home, so you may be contractually obligated to buy an auto insurance policy before driving off.

If you're buying your vehicle from a private seller, they may not ask about your auto insurance. However, it's illegal not to have auto insurance, and driving without it can become costly and land you in legal trouble.

Where Is My Proof of Insurance?

The insurance company or your agent should be able to get you proof of insurance rather quickly. Many companies can quote online and write a policy within a day or less.

Looking for auto insurance? We compare quotes from our trusted partners and can help you secure a policy to fit your needs and budget quickly. Complete our simple form to get started.

Do I Need Full Coverage?

Required coverage levels depend on many factors - including your state's legal requirements and any contractual obligations you may have with a lender.

Here are different types of auto insurance coverages you may need to consider:

• Liability Insurance is often required by law and covers damages you cause to other people or property.
• Collision Coverage pays for damage to your car in an accident, regardless of who is at fault.
• Comprehensive Coverage covers non-collision related incidents, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disaster.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage protects you if you're in an accident with someone who doesn't have enough insurance.

Your state will dictate what type of insurance is minimally required. Full coverage is a general term used to describe a combination of coverage types. It often includes all the above coverages and may also include things such as personal injury protection, Gap (or guaranteed asset protection) insurance, or even roadside assistance.

Financed cars may be required to have full coverage as a condition of the loan. Make sure to speak with the dealership and/or lender so you understand exactly what coverages you need to meet their requirements.

How to Add a New Car to Your Auto Insurance Policy

If you plan to stay with the same auto insurance company, you need to contact them or your agent about buying a new car. They will most likely ask for the vehicle identification number and purchase price. Many companies let you do this directly from their app or with a quick phone call.

If you're shopping around for a new company or haven't bought auto insurance before, speaking with a licensed agent can be helpful. They can help you better understand insurance and help you figure out what is the best coverage for your situation. Give our licensed agents a call at (844) 358-5605 today or complete our form to get started.

Tips for Managing Car Insurance

Once you have auto insurance, it's important to stay current with your premium payments and manage your policy. Here are some quick tips that may benefit you.

• Bundle Policies: If you have other policies such as home or renters, consider bundling them with the same carrier. Discounts for bundling may be available.
• Ask About Discounts: Make sure to ask about discounts that may apply to you. Many companies offer discounts for good driving records, safety features in the car, student drivers and more!
• Review Your Coverage Annually: As your circumstances change, so might your insurance needs. Review your coverage at least once a year to ensure it still fits your situation.

There can be costly consequences to driving your vehicle uninsured. Having auto insurance in place before driving your new vehicle is best case scenario. While technically you don't have to have car insurance before buying a car, it's highly advisable to plan for it. Coverage can help protect your investment and offer you peace of mind.

By researching your options, obtaining quotes, and understanding coverage needs, you can make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle and budget.

Remember, purchasing a car is not just about the vehicle itself. It's also about ensuring you're protected on the road. Happy car and insurance shopping!

About InsureOnline.com

InsureOnline.com is a digital insurance agency that provides affordable insurance to consumers who want to shop and purchase insurance online while still having the option to work with an agent if they wish. The agency offers auto, home, life, health, and commercial as well as other specialty lines of insurance. Our goal is to provide an easy, fast, convenient, and safe online shopping experience for consumers looking for the best price by utilizing all the latest and greatest technology. Based in Bedford Park, Illinois, we are licensed to write business in many states and have a multilingual staff licensed and certified in a variety of insurance lines. We partner with many highly rated insurance companies to provide the best insurance solutions to meet your individual needs and your budget. Buy insurance online or talk to a licensed insurance agent! It's your choice.

For information and quotes on insurance coverage, please visit InsureOnline.com or call (844) 358-5605.

The general and educational information here supports the sales, marketing, or service of insurance policies. Individuals should seek advice from their own qualified and duly licensed independent tax or legal advisors based upon their own particular circumstances.