The “Foremost Insurance Guy” works past some “technical diffculties” -;)

For instance, experts say that while most people anticipate the purchase price, taxes and registration fees associated with a vehicle, many forget that the insurance they need to protect their vehicle could come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, there are ways to keep insurance costs down while maintaining the type and amount of coverage a new car typically requires.

To help consumers control car costs—from sticker price to insurance premiums—The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies offers these tips:

Decide ahead of time how much money you can spend and what type of vehicle best suits your needs.

Research crash test and acci-dent data. You can see crash test video and analysis from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety online at progressive.com.

Check with several dealerships and get firm quotes in writing. Having quotes from several places can help you negotiate your best deal.

Shop around for financing. Rates vary between institutions.

Insurance Costs

Before you buy a car, you should check into how much it would cost to insure. Try talking with an independent insurance agent—it may save you some money. Unlike “captive” agents who represent only one company, independent agents and brokers offer products from many different insurance companies. That means more choice and more opportunities for you to find the best coverage and service at the right price.

Here are a few questions to ask an independent agent or broker.

Can I get any discounts for my car’s safety features? Your auto insurance premium is based in part on the car’s value, the cost to repair it, its overall safety record and the likelihood of theft. Many insurers offer discounts for safety features that reduce the risk of injuries or theft.

How does this insurance company handle claims? Price isn’t the only factor to consider. It’s a good idea to deal with a company that will be there for you when you need it around the clock.

What coverage do I need? Your specific needs may vary by the age of the car, your personal situation and other factors.

Select an agent or broker who takes the time to answer your questions and who can help you find the combination of price, service and coverages that you need.

Did You Know?

Unlike “captive” auto insurance agents who represent only one company, inde-pendent agents and brokers offer products from many different insurance companies. That means more opportunities to find the best coverage and service at the right price.

CALL US for help with Auto Insurance!

“Owners should think of ATVs the same way they think of motor-cycles,” said Rick Stern, product manager, The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies. “You’d never consider getting on a motor-cycle without the proper insurance, and you shouldn’t ride an ATV without the right coverage either.”

If you’re not sure what to do about your ATV insurance needs, here are a few things to consider:

Your homeowners policy might not be enough. Most likely, your homeowners policy only covers your ATV if trouble occurs on your property. Anywhere else and you’ll be exposed. Look for an affordable ATV insurance policy that offers coverage no mat-ter where you are. Trail riders should be aware that many states require ATV insurance for vehicles operated on state-owned land.

What about theft? ATVs are portable and can be easy targets for thieves. You should consider ATV insurance that provides cover-age for things such as theft, fire and vandalism—just like the kind you can get for a motorcycle. Theft, fire and vandalism are covered by Comprehensive coverage, an optional physical damage coverage.

Consider uninsured and underinsured coverage. You never know what can happen in the great outdoors. This relatively inexpensive coverage protects you if another rider causes damage to you and he or she lacks adequate coverage.

Keep your rates low. You can do a number of things to save money on your ATV insurance, including maintaining a clean driving record, staying free of claims or choosing a less “sporty” ATV. In addition, most insurers offer a discount if you insure more than one vehicle on your policy, or have more than one policy with the company. This could mean additional savings on your car, motorcycle, boat or RV insurance.