Reasons Your Auto Policy Can Be Canceled and Where to Get Help to Get Coverage

It’s bad news when you get a notice that your auto policy has been canceled. At Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc., which serves Mount Prospect, IL, we can explain why, and we can also use our expertise to try to get you new coverage.

What is Cancellation?

Cancellation means notifying you before the expiration date that your policy will not be renewed or that your new policy will no longer be in effect. Your insurer has up to 60 days to cancel new policies.  For any reason other than non-payment, you must give written notice at least 30 days in advance. A missed payment requires a 10-day notice.

Reasons Insurers Cancel Auto Policies

Dishonesty in answering your insurer’s questions and having a history of insurance fraud are also cause for termination.  Some other reasons are drug or alcohol abuse, a felony and a history of traffic violations. A medical condition that may make you an unsafe driver is another reason. So too are a poor CBI credit score and possessing a motor vehicle wiith mechanical defects.

Help for High-Risk Drivers

At Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc., we partner with insurers that may be able to give you coverage. We also work with the Illinois Automobile Insurance Plan (ILAIP), a program for poor-risk drivers. To qualify for the program, you must:

  • Have tried to get insurance within the past 60 days
  • Possess a valid driver’s license or be eligible to get one
  • Owe no unpaid monies to other insurers over 36 months
  • Own a vehicle without mechanical defects

If you live in or near Mount Prospect, IL, contact us at Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc. We will do our best to get you auto coverage after cancellation.

Is State-required Auto Insurance Adequate?

As a car owner, you are always looking for creative ways to keep your vehicle ownership costs down. As a result, it’s not uncommon to buy the most basic auto insurance. But is the state-required auto insurance adequate? If you want to find out, keep scrolling as Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc. of Mount Prospect, IL explains whether minimum auto insurance covers you optimally.

State-required auto insurance in Illinois

If you drive your car on Illinois roads, the state requires you to have the below minimum coverages in your auto insurance. 

  • Liability coverage: Your auto insurance should have bodily injury liability to cover you against the physical harm you inflict on other people. Besides, you should have property damage liability to protect you when you are accused of causing property damage to third parties.
  • Uninsured motorist coverage: Since some drivers in Illinois don’t carry auto insurance, this coverage covers your medical costs and property damages caused to you by an uninsured motorist who is at the fault of the accident. 

If you fail to buy the required auto insurance, you are at risk of significant out-of-pocket expenses. Besides, you will receive the below fines and penalties for failure to provide proof of auto insurance ownership.

  • A minimum fine of $500
  • Licenses plate suspension of up to four months
  • Registration suspension that may attract a legal fine of up to $1,000

As you can see, driving without valid auto insurance is costly. But the good thing is that it’s avoidable with proper planning. 

Is state-required auto insurance adequate?

While adhering to the required auto insurance is superb, you need other auto insurance coverages for better protection. State minimums are just minimums. In case your car is damaged in an accident or stolen, your vehicle isn’t protected. Similarly, if you are injured in an auto accident, your medical expenses won’t be covered.

In light of this, please consider the below additional auto insurance coverages for maximum protection.

  • Comprehensive coverage
  • Collision coverage
  • Medical payments coverage/PIP
  • Roadside assistance
  • Gap coverage

Would you like to get more information on auto insurance? If you are in Mount Prospect, IL and its environs, please contact Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc. for all your auto insurance needs.

3 Tips for Buying Auto Insurance in Mount Prospect, IL

Having auto insurance in Mount Prospect, IL is mandatory. But do you have the right coverage? To find out, contact the team at Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc. Here is what you can expect.

1. Working with a Reputable Agent

Our reputable agents will answer all your questions and concerns about auto insurance. We want you to purchase the best policy for the best price and we’ll help you find that policy. To do that, we’ll ask you a few questions to determine which policies to compare.

2. Comparing Several Quotes

Next, we will compare several auto insurance quotes. We will be looking specifically at cost and coverage. We recommend having full coverage versus the state’s minimum requirement, even if you don’t have a loan on your vehicle. It’s always better to be overinsured than underinsured, especially if you’re in an at-fault accident or the other at-fault driver doesn’t have enough insurance to cover damages and/or injuries. We also recommend comparing at least three different auto insurance quotes from three different carriers to get a general overview of what is out there before making your decision.

3. Bundling Your Policies

There’s a good chance you already have other insurance policies, such as life or home insurance. Did you know you can bundle these with your new auto insurance policy to save on your premiums? A reputable insurance agent from our team will help you get this done. You can either stick with the insurance company you already use or switch to a new one. 

To learn more about purchasing a new auto insurance policy in Mount Prospect, IL, contact the team at Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc, serving this area. We are available right now to take your call and start comparing quotes. 

Safety precautions every new Mount Prospect, IL driver should know.

Hitting the road for the first time as a driver can be exciting and adventurous. However, there are many other things to worry about, particularly your driving skills, insurance, and road safety. Every year, thousands of people lose their lives due to road accidents in Mount Prospect, IL, and across America. That is why Com-Co insurance Agency Inc emphasizes the value of paying attention to the road, whether you are an experienced driver or not. Here are a few road safety tips we thought you should know if you are a new driver.

Avoid road rage

Never take the driver seat when you are upset or angry. In such a state, you are not in good control of yourself, and you may speed or make irrational road decisions such as careless overtaking, which can lead to accidents. Negative emotions or over-excitement can affect your ability to focus. If you have to get somewhere in a bad mood, call a friend to drive, or take a break and cool off.

Check the weather

If you plan to visit a remote area, it is almost evident that the weather will come into play. Before you leave, check the updates and keep checking just in case the weather changes. Take with you extra supplies such as an emergency kit, water, food, blankets, and flashlights in case things change in the middle of your journey. Make sure your spare tire is in good condition, and if you are driving in foggy conditions, use fog lights.

Plan your itinerary

As a new driver, you have a lot to learn when it comes to driving across Mount Prospect, IL. You might need Google maps to help you get around. If you visit another country, search for road safety tips in that country and learn the laws along your route. Be cautious when driving over uneven terrain or hills. 

For more information about safety on the roads, feel free to contact us at Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc today.

How To Choose The Right Coverage For Your Car

Buying car insurance is the best way to protect yourself as a driver and your vehicle. Moreover, it is important to know that any vehicle registered in the state of Illinois must have proper car insurance. Since many people make a common mistake and buy the first insurance they see, Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc located in Mount Prospect, IL prepared a brief guide that will help you to choose the right policy for your car. 

Choose The Right Deductible

By choosing a higher deductible, you reduce the cost of insurance. However, you should keep in mind that in case of an accident, you will have to pay a lot out of pocket. Can you handle high deductibles? If your answer is no, then it is better to pick the plan with a higher premium. 

Review Your Mileage

The amount of miles you drive on average annually is one of the main factors used to calculate the cost of insurance. If you drive less than an average driver, you may be qualified for a low-mileage discount. 

Do Thorough Research

When choosing an insurance policy for your car, it is important not to rush. Take your time to compare the available options and insurance companies to make an informed decision. It is also a good idea to call several companies to discuss the options to make sure you have all the necessary information. 

Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc is more than just an insurance company – it is a team of professionals serving the residents of Illinois and helping them to get the best car insurance based on their needs and budget. If you are a car owner from Mount Prospect, IL and you are shopping for insurance for your vehicle, give us a call today to receive help in choosing the right policy. 

Vehicle Maintenance for Older Cars

In order to avoid costly expenses, it’s critical to maintain your vehicle, especially for older models. If you’re willing to care for your car, you’ll be rewarded with a car that can last more than 100,000 miles. Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc in Mount Prospect, IL has independent insurance agents with expert knowledge regarding caring for your vehicle starting with auto insurance.

Follow the Manufacturer’s Recommendations

Each vehicle comes with an owner’s manual that contains maintenance recommendations. Generally, the guidelines for new vehicles state that you should change the oil every three months or 5,000 miles. As your car ages, you’ll need more specified routines that include changing the spark plugs, replacing the fluids, and rotating the tires at specific intervals.

The First 100,000 Miles

After the first 100,000 miles, it’s important for the timing belt to be changed. The timing belt helps to rotate the crankshaft and camshaft in the engine so that the valves will open and close properly. When the timing belt is not functioning in the correct manner then your vehicle could experience severe shaking while idling, oil pan could leak, and the engine could begin to smoke.

You’ll also want to flush the coolant system. Coolant keeps your engine from overheating and helps prevent corrosion. It is recommended to flush the system every three years after 100,000 miles. 

Changing or replacing shocks, struts, oxygen sensors, belts, and hoses is also recommended after 100,000 miles. 

As long as you follow the guidelines for your vehicle, you should be in good shape when your car gets older. Consult with your insurance agents at Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc in Mount Prospect, IL to get started with auto insurance. Our agents can also help you secure home, life, commercial, and umbrella insurance as well.

Safety Tips to Avoid an Accident

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), 32,000 people are killed in car crashes every year. To prevent yourself from becoming a statistic, there are a few tips you can use. In Mount Prospect, IL, Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc. has agents that are available to help and advise you on your auto insurance needs as well as information on avoiding auto accidents.

  • Wear a seatbelt – Seatbelts have been proven to save lives. Even the impact of a fender-bender can be a jolt to your body. It can lead to severe back and neck injuries. Without a seatbelt in place, it can push you into the steering wheel or even cause you to hitting the windshield.
  • Don’t drive impaired – Even one drink or smoke can cause you to be impaired. Medical marijuana is legal in most states, but driving while you are impaired is not. Get a driver who has not been drinking or take a car service.
  • Monitor the weather – The weather can make a difference in how you drive. In the rain or snow, you have to be more cautious when the road is slicker. Make sure that your wipers are clean to keep your visual field free. Check the tread on your tires to prevent unnecessary slides.
  • Stay off your phone – Having a cell phone is a convenient way to keep in contact with your friends and family. Many people also use it as a GPS. To stay safe on the road, keep your phone hands-free. Get a cell phone holder and use the voice-to-talk feature that is available with most cell phones. If your phone does not have this feature, then you can download it from the app store.

If you need to know more or you are just interested in auto insurance, come to Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc. in Mount Prospect, IL to get a quote and have your questions answered.

 

Does Auto Insurance Cover Costs Even if You are At Fault?

Auto insurance is a must if you want to be able to drive on the road legally. Auto insurance does a great deal to help make sure that if there is an accident, no one is going to be responsible for all the costs of the accident and for the costs of repair. For those that live in the Mount Prospect, IL area, the agents with Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc can help you to find the auto policy that works for you.

For the most part, when you are in an accident fault is established to do a few different things. First, it helps to provide information to the insurance companies and it helps the police to fill out paperwork should there be any sort of legal filing made in regards to the accident. In some states, there is an on fault clause which means there is no fault established. No matter if your state is a no-fault state or not, your insurance is still going to pay out, even if you are found to be at fault for the accident.

In most cases, an insurance company is going to pay out, even if you are at fault, as long as you have been paying your premiums and your policy is current. It is important to note that if you have not paid your premiums up, your policy is not going to pay out. Though your insurance company may not seek to establish fault, the size of the claim is likely going to affect if your insurance company is going to keep insuring you after the accident. In many cases, your insurance company will keep insuring you but will increase your premiums. For those that live in the Mount Prospect, IL area, the agents with Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc can help you to find the best policy for you.  

Auto Insurance: Beyond Minimum Coverage

First-time car owners are usually first-time auto insurance purchasers too. While simply buying the state minimum coverage might seem to be the simplest solution, it also means missing out on necessary coverage. Read on to learn the different sections of a complete auto insurance policy from Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc of Mount Prospect, IL and why you should go beyond the state minimum requirements for liability and property damage.

Bodily Injury Liability

The coverage referred to as bodily injury liability pays the medical bills of those you cause injury to in an accident who are traveling in another vehicle or are pedestrians. This coverage applies to the driver(s) specifically named on the policy.

Medical Payments

Also referred to as personal injury protection (PIP), medical payments insurance pays the medical bills of the driver and their passengers. It can also provide lost wages payments or the cost of replacing the services provided by an injured party. In some cases, it covers funeral costs.

Property Damage Liability

Property damage liability pays for damage a driver named in the policy causes to another person’s property. It includes vehicles, fences, mailboxes, etc.

Collision

You’ll need collision coverage to pay for repairs to your own vehicle. While deer collisions are covered by comprehensive, collision handles the repair costs if your vehicle collides with another vehicle and it is your fault.

Comprehensive

Comprehensive coverage covers repairs due to other items besides another vehicle or stationary object, such as birds or deer. It covers catastrophic events like earthquakes, explosions, falling objects, fire, flood, hail, missiles, riot, vandalism, and windstorms.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage pays for your damages if you’re hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver. It also covers your injuries if you’re struck as a pedestrian or the victim of a hit-and-run.

Contact Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc of Mount Prospect, IL to learn more about how the right auto insurance coverage can protect your vehicle and you. With the right policy, you’ll have peace of mind knowing everything that could go wrong is covered.

Why is Auto Insurance Required by Law?

Auto insurance is something that is required by law in almost every state in the United States. Each state has its own requirement when it comes to the basic coverage that you have to have to comply with insurance laws. There are also federal regulations that have to be followed for a car to be considered legal to be driven on the streets. For those in the Mount Prospect, IL area, the agents with Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc. can help you find the policy that is going to work for you.

Why is auto insurance required by law?

For starters, it is necessary so that other drivers are covered if they are in an accident with you that is not their fault. This is the main reason that you have to have auto insurance. Without it, the fault and payment of bills and insurance premiums to have cars replaced and repaired would fall to the people that were in the accident even if it was not their fault.

Insurance that is required by law is put in place to protect other drivers so that the cost of medical bills does not fall solely to the injured to pay. It is important that you take the time to make sure you comply with insurance law so that you can be sure you are not going to be in violation if you are pulled over by police or should you be in an accident. Each state has a liability threshold that your policy must meet which is usually around $10,000. This means that if there is an accident, there is $10,000 coverage for medical bills for the other driver.

For those in the Mount Prospect, IL area, Com-Co Insurance Agency Inc. can help. Reach out to our Illinois offices to speak with an agent and learn how you can get started on a policy.