At Nest Insurance Agency in Amarillo, TX, we understand that insurance terminology can be a bit tricky at times, so we are here to take the guesswork out of your insurance policy. Many have asked us what an auto insurance deductible is and how it works.
Simply put, your auto insurance deductible is the amount you agree to pay out of pocket for a covered loss before your insurance company pays a claim. Typically, you will see deductibles on comprehensive and collision coverages on your auto policy. Therefore, if you are in a collision with another car and are found liable for damages, you will be responsible for paying a deductible. Then, the insurance agency will pay for the rest of the repairs.
For example, in this scenario, you have $4000 in damages to your car after a covered accident and a $500 deductible on collision coverage. In that case, you would pay $500 to the repair shop, and the insurance company would pay the other $3500.
Anytime you purchase an auto policy with comprehensive and collision coverages on it, you will choose a deductible you are willing to pay if you have either type of claim. Most companies offer deductibles in $250 increments so that you can have deductibles of $250 up to $1000 or more. However, $500 is standard. It is also important to note that if you are financing your vehicle, the finance company may not only require you to carry comprehensive and collision on your auto policies but may limit the amount of your deductible by recommending you not select a deductible over $1000, for instance.
It’s also essential to note that the higher the deductible you have on your policy, the lower your premium payments will be. On the contrary, the lower your auto deductible, the higher your insurance premiums will be. So, choose your deductible carefully.
We are here to help!
At Nest Insurance Agency in Amarillo, TX, we understand that deciding on the right deductible for your auto insurance can be challenging, especially in this economy. However, we are experts and are more than happy to help you make the best decision to protect you and your family for years to come. Call us at (806) 476-2580.