Metzler Bros: FAQ

FAQ: AUTO

Do red vehicles cost more to insure than other vehicles?
No, Your insurance company does not consider the color of your vehicle when calculating your insurance premium. Factors that insurers consider include your age, the kind of vehicle you drive, your claims history, and your driving record.

Do I need to purchase insurance before I buy a car?
If this is your first car, yes, you'll have to buy auto insurance before you drive your new car off the dealer's lot. However, if you already have an auto policy, that will generally cover your new automobile for a period of up to 30 days after you buy it. Once that 30 day period is up, you'll have to talk with your agent to insure that new vehicle.

I've just been in an accident. How will the insurer issue the check to repair my car?
It depends on whether or not you're in a first-party or third-party claim situation. In a first-party situation, your insurer will likely make the check out to you and the body shop. In a third-party situation, it's likely that the at-fault party's insurer will make the check payable to you alone.

What can I do to protect myself from uninsured drivers?
Purchasing uninsured/underinsured motorists (UM/UIM) coverage can protect you against uninsured or underinsured drivers. In many states, UM/UIM coverage is required by law. UM/UIM coverage will pay for medical bills and pain and suffering if you are hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver. In some states, UM property-damage coverage is available. If your car is damaged by an uninsured driver and you have UM property-damage coverage, you'll be able to get your car fixed under this coverage, rather than using your collision coverage. UM property-damage coverage is not available to Kansas and Missouri policyholders at this time.

Which coverages pay for damages to my vehicle?
Depending on what kind of damage your car suffers, one of your physical damage coverages-comprehensive or collision insurance-will pay for the damages. If your car is hit by a deer or other animal, stolen, catches on fire, or is vandalized, your comprehensive coverage would apply. If you crash into something and crunch your car, your collision coverage would apply. Both of these coverages are optional and, of course, adding them to your policy will raise your insurance premium.

Can I demand original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts in the repair of my vehicle?
Yes, you can always request original equipment manufacturer parts after you've had an accident. Currently, however, some insurance companies might make you pay extra for OEM parts.

Do I have to use my insurer's body shop for repairs?
That depends on your policy. Sometimes, you and the insurance company agree on a predetermined course of action after you're involved in an accident. That often includes the use of an insurance company-chosen auto repair facility. If your policy does not have such a stipulation, you can then choose the body shop that repairs your vehicle.

I'm moving to another state temporarily. Do I need to purchase coverage in that state?
If you are moving for more than six months, the proper procedure is to purchase coverage in your new state. That way, you can avoid any potential questionable coverage issues. Keep in mind, however, that your current insurance policy says you are covered in all 50 states.