Category: Auto Insurance

Car insurance is both a necessity and a luxury. Drivers in every state are required to carry auto liability insurance. However, aside from state laws, some drivers must have more coverage in addition to liability insurance. For example, anyone financing their vehicle must carry auto liability insurance plus other forms of auto insurance. Our Foley, AL team at Southern Risk Associates is committed to helping drivers get the coverage they need to suit their unique situations.

What are the minimum insurance requirements needed to drive in Alabama?

Alabama’s drivers must carry at least $25K in auto bodily injury liability coverage per person and $50K for two or more people. Drivers must also have $25K in property damage coverage. Of course, drivers can invest in more coverage, but these are the state-required minimum amounts.

I just paid off my car. Do I still need full auto insurance coverage?

Once you’ve paid your auto loan in full, you are no longer required to have anything more than the state minimum auto liability coverage. However, there are circumstances when it’s best to maintain full coverage. The amount of insurance you carry should be directly related to your car’s value. Once your premium exceeds the value of your car, you should eliminate full coverage auto insurance. Your car’s value will likely depreciate if you’re in a car accident. This means that your car will be "totaled" or considered a total loss. Newer cars benefit from full insurance coverage because their value often exceeds their insurance premiums. If you have questions about auto insurance, call us. We’d be happy to help you explore your options.

If you live in Foley, AL and you’re ever involved in an auto accident, you’re likely to be shaken if not completely distraught. Despite this fact, you need to keep in mind that there are several things that you shouldn’t do following a car accident.

Here is an overview so you will know exactly what to refrain from doing:

Leave the scene

You should never, ever leave the scene of an accident, regardless of who is at fault. Even if you accidentally hit a parked car and the owner of the vehicle is nowhere around, you should call the police and wait for them to arrive. You should also wait for the owner of the vehicle, if feasible. If you leave the scene of an accident, you could be charged with a hit and run, especially if you were at fault. 

Admit Fault

Even if you’re absolutely sure that an accident was a result of your negligence, you should never admit fault to the police, the other driver, or any bystanders. It might be discovered that you weren’t at fault, but if you admit fault on the scene, then you could be charged. The police could give you a ticket, and the other driver could sue you. 

Argue or Threaten the Other Driver 

Regardless of how angry you might be at the other driver, you should always refrain from threatening anyone on the scene or starting an argument. Any emotions that you’re experiencing are likely normal, but it isn’t normal to allow a volatile temper to get the best of you. You need to remain as calm as possible as you speak with the police, as you don’t want to end up getting arrested.

Southern Risk Associates Is Here To Help

As you can see, there are certain things that you should refrain from doing if you’re ever involved in an accident in Foley, AL or any place else. If you need a new insurer for your car or truck, then we at Southern Risk Associates can provide you with a quote in case you’re interested in starting a policy. We go above and beyond to ensure all our customers are treated fairly and provided with high-quality coverage and customer service. 

If you live in the Foley, AL area, you know the roads can be unpredictable. From severe weather to construction and everything in between, it’s crucial to have full coverage car insurance.

Here’s why:

Liability Protection

If you cause an accident, the full car insurance coverage will protect you from paying out of pocket for the damages. Whether it’s property damage or bodily injury, your insurance will cover the costs up to your policy limit. Also, the full car insurance coverage will help pay for your legal fees if you’re sued.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Protection

Unfortunately, not everyone has car insurance. If you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver, you could be stuck footing the bill for the damages. Full coverage car insurance will protect you in this situation, as well as if you’re in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have enough insurance to cover the damage.

A Southern Risk Associates representative can help you determine the right amount of coverage for your needs.

Collision Coverage

If you’re in an accident, collision coverage will help pay to repair your car regardless of who is at fault. This protection is significant if you have a loan or lease on your vehicle.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage helps pay to repair or replace your car if it’s damaged in an incident that’s not a collision. This can include damage from severe weather, theft, vandalism, or hitting an animal.

Contact Us Today

Full coverage car insurance is a must if you live in the Foley, AL area. Contact Southern Risk Associates today for a free quote. We’ll make sure you’re properly protected on the road.