If you own a vehicle (or vehicles), you know the added costs that go with ownership: gas, maintenance, and repairs are just par for the course and what you need to pay to have the convenience and freedom of your own transportation. Another important aspect of owning a vehicle is having it properly insured. Depending on your needs and unique circumstances, this can be a minor expense or a more costly one. 

Here is how to choose the right car insurance VA for your vehicle and situation.

First, Understand the Different Types of Coverage 

Before you make a decision on which car insurance VA policy to buy, you should first understand the different types of coverage. They are:

• Liability coverage. Most states require you to carry liability coverage on your vehicle whether you have it paid off or you are making payments on it. Liability coverage pays for damage to other vehicles or injuries to others involved in an accident if the accident was your fault. 
• Collision coverage. This type of coverage will cover damage to your own vehicle if you are involved in an accident. You will likely be required to have this type of coverage if you have a loan on your vehicle and do not have it paid off. 
• Comprehensive coverage. This will cover non-accident related damage to your car such as damage done from the weather or vandalism or if your car is stolen. 
• MedPay insurance. This type of coverage will help cover medical expenses for passengers as well as you, the driver, in the event of an accident regardless of who was at fault.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This type of insurance will help cover your repair costs should you be involved in an accident with another motorist who is at fault for the accident and who is underinsured or not insured at all.

Choosing the Right Car Insurance VA Policy: What to Consider

Now that you know the different types of insurance, you can make an informed decision on the best policy for you. Some considerations include:

• If you own your vehicle outright. If you pay out-of-pocket for your vehicle or if you’ve paid off the loan, you can opt to have liability only coverage. However, if you have a loan on your car or if you lease it, most banks will require you to have comprehensive and collision insurance.
• The age and value of your car. If you have an older vehicle that is low on the value side, you may end up paying more for a comprehensive insurance package than you would have paid to replace your car. However, if your car is newer and its value is high, it’s almost always a good plan to carry multiple types of insurance.
• The deductible. You will have a deductible on your insurance policy that will determine how much you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in. The higher your deductible, the more affordable your policy. 

Work with an Experience Car Insurance VA Provider 

Not sure what type of coverage is best for your vehicle? When you work with an experienced local car insurance VA agent, you can ask questions, learn more about the policies offered, and have a pro by your side when deciding which plan is best for you.