When To Call Your Car Insurance Agent

Just because the check is signed to close the deal on a car insurance policy, doesn't mean the relationship with the company or its agents should end. On the contrary, keeping in touch with the insurance company either through an agent or directly if the policy has been purchased that way, is very important under a whole host of circumstances.

There are, in fact, many instances where it's vital to know who to call at the company and when. Little changes in life can impact a policy and even its validity, so keep that agent's number handy or know how to make changes with the insurance company directly.

The following circumstances should prompt a call to your insurance company:
* Change of vehicles. This should be a no-brainer, but sometimes in the rush of buying a new car, the call is forgotten. Don't let this be the case. You might find yourself with a brand new car and no insurance to call its own.
* Change of address. This is very important not only to make sure your policy remains valid, but also to possibly take advantage of lower rates a new ZIP code might come with. This, of course, can work out in the other direction, but that's not always the case.
* Addition/subtraction of drivers. If a new driver moves into your home, or a family member reaches driving age, it's important to call the company and let them know. This is something that can create big problems down the road if you're not upfront and honest with the agency.
* An accident. This is the one time you absolutely don't want to forget to call. Even if you're not at fault, it's important to contact your agent or company to make sure you get the coverage you deserve. If the authorities are involved in any way, the company will find out eventually, so save yourself the hassle and just make the call.
* Occasional feeler call for policy rate reductions. If your personal status has changed, you've gone back to school or you've joined an organization that provides discounts, you'll find these little call can save big money on the insurance bottom line.

Just because the ink's dried on the check doesn't mean your dealings with the insurance agency are over. It's important to remember to call your agent or company when a lot of life's little changes crop up. Don't hesitate to call them when something changes.