What information should I have available and what questions should I ask my insurance company/agent while shopping for insurance?

Be prepared to provide information about you and your vehicle, including, but not limited to:

• Home address, including the garaging address of your vehicle, if they differ
• Telephone number
• Driver license number
• Names of other people living in the household
• Vehicle identification number (VIN)
• Whether you use your vehicle to drive to and from work or just for pleasure
• Safety and security devices such as air bags and anti-lock brakes
• Driving history

You should also refer to the declarations page of your current auto insurance policy for your current coverage and limits. The declarations page is the page of your policy that lists your current coverages, limits, and deductibles, as well as the current premium you are paying. If you are uncomfortable releasing this information, you should be able to answer questions about your current coverage without providing a copy of your declarations page.

Be certain to ask for the coverage that meets your specific needs. When you are deciding on what coverages to purchase (such as collision or comprehensive), consider what your vehicle is worth, how much it would cost to replace it, and how much you can afford to spend for insurance.