Auto insurance is a necessary expense for families who own multiple vehicles and have drivers of varying ages. In Mesquite, Texas, the Smith family is a perfect example of this. John and Sarah Smith are a married couple with three children, each at different driving ages. They own four vehicles, each with their own insurance coverage and monthly payments.
The Smith family’s oldest child, Emily, is 17 years old and just got her driver’s license. She drives a 2015 Honda Civic, which is insured under a full coverage policy. The monthly premium for Emily’s vehicle is $150, which includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. John and Sarah understand the importance of having comprehensive coverage for a new driver like Emily, as she is more likely to be involved in an accident.
Their second child, Michael, is 19 years old and drives a 2012 Toyota Camry. Michael has been driving for two years and has a clean driving record so far. His vehicle is insured under a liability-only policy, which costs $80 per month. John and Sarah opted for liability coverage for Michael’s car because it is older and has a lower value.
The youngest child, Lily, is 15 years old and will be getting her learner’s permit soon. She will eventually drive the family’s 2018 Ford Escape, which is insured under a full coverage policy. The monthly premium for Lily’s future vehicle is $180, as it is a newer car and requires more comprehensive coverage.
Lastly, John and Sarah share a 2010 Chevrolet Silverado for their everyday errands and family outings. The truck is insured under a liability-only policy, which costs $70 per month. They decided on liability coverage for their truck because it is older and has a lower value compared to their other vehicles.
Over the years, the Smith family has experienced a few driving infractions that have resulted in increased auto insurance rates. These infractions include speeding tickets, at-fault accidents, driving under the influence, driving without insurance, and reckless driving. Each of these infractions can cause auto insurance rates to increase significantly, depending on the severity of the offense.
For example, a speeding ticket can raise auto insurance rates by an average of 20%, while a DUI conviction can cause rates to skyrocket by up to 80%. At-fault accidents can also lead to a 30% increase in insurance premiums, as insurance companies view these drivers as high-risk individuals. Driving without insurance can result in a 25% increase in rates, as it shows a lack of responsibility on the part of the driver. Lastly, reckless driving can cause rates to increase by 50%, as it demonstrates a disregard for traffic laws and safety.
When it comes to auto insurance in Mesquite, Texas, there are several common questions that residents may have. Here are 12 frequently asked questions about auto insurance in Mesquite, along with their answers:
1. What is the minimum auto insurance coverage required in Mesquite, Texas?
In Mesquite, drivers are required to have liability insurance with at least $30,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $60,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident, and $25,000 in property damage coverage.
2. How can I lower my auto insurance rates in Mesquite?
Drivers in Mesquite can lower their auto insurance rates by maintaining a clean driving record, bundling their policies, taking defensive driving courses, and comparing quotes from multiple insurance companies.
3. Can I insure multiple vehicles under the same policy in Mesquite?
Yes, drivers in Mesquite can insure multiple vehicles under the same policy, which can result in discounts and savings on their premiums.
4. What factors affect auto insurance rates in Mesquite?
Several factors can affect auto insurance rates in Mesquite, including the driver’s age, driving record, credit score, type of vehicle, and location.
5. Are there any discounts available for auto insurance in Mesquite?
Yes, there are several discounts available for auto insurance in Mesquite, including multi-policy discounts, safe driver discounts, and discounts for installing anti-theft devices in your vehicle.
6. Do I need uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage in Mesquite?
While uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is not required in Mesquite, it is highly recommended to protect yourself in case you are involved in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance or enough coverage.
7. What is the average cost of auto insurance in Mesquite?
The average cost of auto insurance in Mesquite varies depending on several factors, but residents can expect to pay around $1,200 per year for a full coverage policy.
8. Can I change my auto insurance coverage at any time in Mesquite?
Yes, drivers in Mesquite can change their auto insurance coverage at any time, but it is recommended to do so before your current policy expires to avoid any lapses in coverage.
9. What should I do if I am involved in an accident in Mesquite?
If you are involved in an accident in Mesquite, you should first ensure that everyone is safe and call the police to report the incident. You should then exchange insurance information with the other driver and contact your insurance company to file a claim.
10. How can I file a claim with my auto insurance company in Mesquite?
To file a claim with your auto insurance company in Mesquite, you should contact your agent or insurance company as soon as possible and provide them with all the necessary information, including the details of the accident and any relevant documentation.
11. Can I get a discount for driving a hybrid or electric vehicle in Mesquite?
Yes, drivers in Mesquite can qualify for discounts on their auto insurance premiums for driving a hybrid or electric vehicle, as these vehicles are considered safer and more environmentally friendly.
12. Is roadside assistance included in auto insurance policies in Mesquite?
Some auto insurance companies in Mesquite offer roadside assistance as an optional add-on to their policies, which can provide drivers with peace of mind in case of emergencies on the road.
Overall, auto insurance is an essential investment for families like the Smiths in Mesquite, Texas, as it provides financial protection in case of accidents and other unforeseen events. By understanding the different types of coverage available and taking steps to lower their rates, drivers can ensure that they have the necessary coverage at an affordable price.