Internet Safety Tips

Online Auto Insurance Quotes - What to know before buying auto insurance Online!

Shopping the Internet to buy auto insurance is quickly becoming the norm. Today, large insurance companies, brokers and agents are staking-out online territory to compete for your business.

Most companies offer free rate quotes, which used to your advantage, allows you to compare different auto insurance quotes, side by side. If you find a quote you like you may opt to buy the policy online. Once issued you may also be able to manage your policy online, which inlcudes making changes, payments, getting policy information or placing inquiries.


We spoke with a representative at USAA and found that mainly younger consumers were using the Internet to buy auto insurance policies.

However, auto insurance is a complicated product. Before buying (or even comparing quotes online), take the time to learn about the different coverages. Determine ahead of time, which ones you need, how much to buy, and so forth. You want to be an educated consumer.

Your top concerns when buying online?

  • Buying from a reputable insurance company
  • Site Security
  • Being prepared to answer questions
  • Understanding auto insurance & what coverages you need

Safety Tip # 1- Screen your Auto Insurance Company

If you don't know the insurance company you are considering, check them out! Only deal with licensed agents and brokers on the Web. Also, make sure they are licensed to sell automobile insurance in your state.

How to check? Visit your state's Department of Insurance website. For example, in the state of California you can do this by searching under the catagory: "Insurance Company Profiles," but this search will likely be different with each state's Department of Insurance website. You can also contact the insurance company (or agent) directly. Request their license number.

Another thing to do: Review the "Consumer Complaint Ratio" published on many of the state Department of Insurance websites. This ratio is based upon the amount of complaints a car insurance company received per 1,000 auto insurance claims filed. It gives you a better idea about who to stay away from, and who to consider.

Edmonds.com suggests consumers first make a list of car insurance companies with the lowest premium quotes. Then, make a list of companies with the lowest (best) "complaint ratios." Afterwards compare the two. The companies that rank the best, deserve the strongest consideration.


Safety Tip # 2 - Pay Attention to Online Security

According to a survey that leverages 2 million online consumers, the smaller percentage: 35%, said they would not purchase an auto insurance policy online due to the concern of submitting their personal information to a website.

However, of those same people, 60% said that they would consider purchasing online, if site-security were guaranteed.



What to look for on your auto insurer's website:

  • Does the company have a secure site? The site should state it's secure.

    When you are doing anything on the site that involves entering or viewing your sensitive data you should see a small padlock on the bottom right hand corner of your browser.

    Also, the url should change to start with 'https'.
  • Don't use your account number, social security or birthdate as a login i.d. The company should allow you to choose a random username and password.
  • Choose a secure password. Pick something that includes both letters and numbers and has at least 8 characters. And, change your password from time to time. If at any time your find a virus or trojan on your computer, change your password.
  • Many sites now have additional security questions, before personal data can be accessed. These may include your PIN number, site key or security questions. Beware if these measures are in place and you don't see them when you log-in. It may mean that someone is redirecting you to a website, and 'spoofing' the company's site.


Safety Tip # 3 - Understand your Coverages

Educate yourself about the types and amount of coverage you want to buy.

Do this by reading our auto insurance report, researching further, talking to insurance experts, friends, family members and colleagues.


Safety Tip # 4 - Be Prepared

You may not remember a past accident or ticket but having this information at your finger tips will make the process more efficient as well as accurate.

Have your policy's declaration page available (if you have one) for vehicle information such as model, year, make, and VIN Number.

If you're looking to get a more accurate online quote be prepared to answer all question honestly. Know that insurance companies share information and you don't want to be denied a policy or have your policy cancelled for not disclosing requested information.


Want to compare auto insurance quotes online?

  • Check out Net Quotes
  • FYI: NetQuote works with over 100 of the nation's top insurers