Sifting through the maze of auto insurance coverage requirements for active duty military servicemen can be confusing. Making sure you are getting the lowest price on your insurance is also import. Getting several car insurance quotes is the best way to make sure that you are getting the best deal possible. Knowing exactly what coverage you need while on active duty is your responsibility. Staying on top of the coverage you have can both save you money and make sure that you are complaint under the particular laws of the state or country for which you reside.
If you are new to the military or perhaps even a seasoned veteran, sometimes it is hard to know where you are waking up little less what the auto insurance laws are for wherever you have been stationed. Many times our military and their families are asked to relocate frequently. With each state having their laws about auto insurance, keeping track of what your needs are and making sure that you are always compliant is just an additional hassle. Most states have a compulsory auto insurance laws that requires the citizens residing in their state to carry at minimum collision insurance. Collision insurance is the protection that covers both physical damage and bodily injury if you should ever be in an auto accident. Each state has different limits on liability insurance and their own stipulations on the exact minimums that must be carried.
If you are residing in the United States, each time that you relocate, it is your responsibility to check with local authorities and the laws of the state to make sure that you are compliant with their auto laws. If you are not, you are opening yourself up to not only the potential that you won’t be covered in the case of an accident but also that you can be charged legally for not complying with the law. Finding the right insurance has become even easier. All you have to do is input your zip code into comparison auto insurance or a carrier’s direct site to find out what your state’s required minimum is. If you chose to stay with your current carrier, you need just update your policy address online or you can contact them directly. If driving in the United States, you will almost always need coverage for yourself and for your family.
If you know that your duties will require you to store your car for more than 30 days, some insurance companies will agree to suspend your coverage over that period of time. Not having to pay the monthly payment or paying it at a much lower rate can save you substantially. If you know that you won’t be driving for a while, contact your carrier and see what they have to offer for active duty servicemen. Putting your policy on suspension is much easier and better for your overall premium. Those people, who take out new policies on a continual basis even if it is through no fault of their own, may miss out on loyalty and other discounts. Putting a policy on hold is always preferable to taking out a new one all together.
If you are being stationed overseas, that is completely different. Depending on the country for which you will be stationed, you will have to comply with the laws that they require. Many other countries have similar compulsory auto insurance laws that must be followed. In most cases, your American auto insurance will not be good when traveling overseas, so making sure that you have the correct coverage will be your responsibility. When in foreign countries they don’t give special allowance to those who are from overseas so relying on your badge will get you nowhere. In fact, it can really get you into some substantial trouble between governments.
In countries like Japan, they have insurance that you must carry to operate a motor vehicle. Very similar to the compulsory laws within many of our states, they have what is called the Japanese Compulsory Insurance and liability. Making sure to always check with and be in compliance with the host country is very important when serving in the military. Although there should be people to help you sort out the details, the ultimate responsibility is yours, so doing your own investigating is the best way to make sure you are following the laws.
While you are away overseas, there are times when you need to leave your family back home in the states. Although it is costly to carry two auto insurance policies, you must make sure that you are covered and your family back at home is as well. They will be able to maintain the same policy without any problems. Now, paying two insurance policies can be an extra expense that can create a hardship.
There are discounts that are available for Military personnel. Different insurance companies will offer significantly different rates of discount. Unfortunately, it is up to you to investigate and shop for the best possible rate available. The amount of the discount will vary so comparison shopping several companies is the best way to get the lowest price possible. When shopping online, many sites will ask you right up front whether you are in the Military to supply you with the discount automatically. It is always best to check with their individual site or to contact them directly to see what is available.
Auto insurance can be an extra expense that is hard to afford especially if you are being required to take out two separate policies. Making sure to shop around and to maximize the benefit of military discounts available can make a significant dent in the amount you will be paying every month. Don’t assume that your insurance is taken care of the ultimate responsibility to be compliant within the law is up to you. Make sure that you are getting the lowest price possible by starting now. If you are wondering whether you are overpaying for your auto insurance, don’t wonder anymore. Fill out your zip code at the top of the page and see what you can potentially save on your premium. Within minutes you will receive a free rate quote allowing you to make an informed decision about your auto insurance costs. Simply input your zip code and receive free car insurance quotes now.