Reader’s Question:

Could you please tell me where I could get my auto insurance history?

Jane

Baltimore MD

It depends on what type of auto insurance history you want to get.

If you are moving to a different state and would like to show your car insurance company your auto insurance history to get lower car insurance premium, then you can contact your current insurance company and ask if you can get a print out of your auto insurance history.

You may also contact your Department of Motor Vehicle if what you want to get is the name of your previous car insurance company. You can also get a copy of your motor vehicle record from DMV if you need it.

If you need proof of car insurance to show the court or for any other reasons, I suggest that you contact your current auto insurance company regarding that. They can provide you documentation of insurance policy and coverage. If you have any more questions regarding your auto insurance history, you can contact your state insurance regulatory body to determine your state’s insurance law and other information on your auto insurance history.

Reader’s Question:

My car insurance rates have increased after my friend crashed my car. Where can I get the cheapest auto insurance after an accident?

Ian

Rockford, IL

Although it may seem unfair, but will have to pay for your friend’s dreadful driving, too. This is also the case when family members borrow your car and get into an unfortunate accident. This is because the insurance that will kick in to pay for the damages your friend or relative may cause will be the auto owner’s insurance, which in this case is yours. Unless you are able to prove that the car was taken without your permission, then you can expect an increase of as much as 50% in your auto insurance premiums.

However, if this is the first ever accident in your auto insurance record, then you can appeal to your insurer. In most cases, auto insurance companies will be willing forgive the first accident and not raise the auto owner’s premiums. You will need to ask about this matter from your local auto insurance broker, though, as companies have varying rating systems. Other auto insurance companies may forego the first time accident, while some insurers may not. Since your rates have increased, you should shop around for the cheapest auto insurance from different companies that cater to clients who may be considered high risk because they have records of traffic accidents before.