Questions And Answers

If you have a question about car insurance, we'd like to help you find the answer. Search through our database of already answered queries, and if you still haven't found what you're looking for, do not hesitate to ask us directly.

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Can I really get in trouble with my insurance company for stuff I put on Facebook?

Yes, anything you post online is up for grabs. The internet is not a private place and just about everything you post can be found by someone looking hard enough. It isn’t just insurance companies that can use the internet, but also law enforcement agents. If you post about how you eluded the ... [more]

Is Illinois doing something about handicapped parking abuse?

If the Secretary of State, Jesse White, has anything to do about it, it will. In a recent meeting of the Advisory Committee on Traffic Safety, the focus was on the abuse of the disabled parking system. They hope to fix the problem through tougher penalties and more enforcement. White recommended ... [more]

The New Jersey DMV is getting facial recognition technology, what does that mean?

You’re right; the New Jersey DMV is getting facial recognition technology soon. What that is going to mean is up for grabs. Some states have very elaborate rules for taking photographs using that technology. People can’t smile, have hats, and a number of other restrictions that result in your ... [more]

How do I know if my teenager is ready to drive?

It can be hard for the parents of teens to let go of the wheel and let the teens start driving. However, not all teens are ready for the responsibility of driving at the same time. Some may be ready at 16, while others aren’t at 18. Many Graduated Driver License (GDL) laws allow a parent to block ... [more]

Can my driver’s license in California be suspended for a BUI?

Boating Under the Influence (BUI) cannot cause the DMV in California to suspend your license. The California DMV recently settled a class-action lawsuit over this very issue. The DMV had been suspending the license of people who had BUIs, but the law didn’t allow for that. The law only allows ... [more]

Why does the Virginia DMV offer online services?

There are a couple reasons that the Virginia DMV has chosen to offer services online and they come down to customer satisfaction and money. By putting those services online, and there are now 31 transactions that can be done online, the DMV is able to get a portion of the population to avoid ... [more]

What are some things that can cause a big increase in my car insurance policy?

There are many things that happen and can increase the cost of your car insurance, but most of these are small adjustments. The following are the big whammies: • An at-fault car accident – unless you have some accident forgiveness, you’re looking at a sharp increase in your premium. ... [more]

What are some things my auto insurance covers that I’m not aware of?

Sometimes your car insurance will pick up the tab on some unlikely items. Some of them are: • Lawyers – your car insurance policy will help with legal defense if you are sued for an incident that is covered by your policy. • Toto – in an accident your pet might be injured if they’re in ... [more]

How old do kids have to be to sit in the front seat?

There are as many different rules and regulations on child seating as there are states. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that individuals under the age of 13 sit in the back seat and many states follow that. New York, for example, doesn’t have a restriction on ... [more]

Where can I get insurance codes used in New York State?

The New York Department of Financial Services (DFS) is in charge of insurance regulation in the state of New York. On their website, you can find the DMV insurance codes. The page will help you navigate through all the different numbers because it breaks it down into sections instead of hitting you ... [more]

Should I loan my car to a neighbor?

That’s going to depend on how much you trust that neighbor. A standard car insurance policy will cover someone driving your car if you gave them permission. So you don’t need to worry about your car not having coverage. However, you definitely don’t want to have your car involved in an ... [more]

What is the rule about riding an ATV on a paved road in West Virginia?

The basic rule when it comes to riding your ATV is that you are not allowed to ride on paved roadways. This law is in place to prevent accidents with passenger cars and trucks. There are some exceptions to the law, however. They are: • Two-lane paved roads • Paved roads with no center stripe ... [more]

Is it true that Virginia doesn’t require car insurance?

Absolutely untrue. Virginia does, in fact, have a minimum level of insurance that must be maintained. You must have: • Bodily injury per person - $25,000 • Bodily injury per accident - $50,000 • Property damage - $20,000 Your confusion may stem from the option that Virginia offers ... [more]

What are the penalties for underage drinking and driving in Texas?

Drinking and driving when you are under the age of 21 will land you in a heap of trouble in Texas. State law does not allow for any tolerance of alcohol in minors. You are not allowed to even purchase, attempt to purchase, consume, or possess an alcoholic beverage. Any amount of alcohol in your ... [more]

What is the speed limit on unmarked roads in South Carolina?

When you are driving on the road in South Carolina, you need to obey the speed limits that are posted. But what happens when there is no posted speed limit? In that case, you either guess and hope you aren’t wrong, or you arm yourself with foreknowledge of the speed limit on unposted roads. In ... [more]

What safety equipment does Oregon recommend for motorcyclists?

Being a motorcyclist involves a more severe risk of injury than being a regular motorist. Rather than being surrounded by a comforting cushion of leather and steel, along with a healthy dose of safety devices, your body is open to the elements and the road. Failure to wear the right gear can mean ... [more]

What are the point values of traffic violations in North Dakota?

Like many states, North Dakota has chosen to abstract your traffic violations into a point system so that they may more easily track them. If you accumulate too many points, your license to drive will be suspended. Some violations and their point values are: • Failure to display a license plate ... [more]

Did New Mexico ban the use of handheld cell phones while driving?

While many states have chosen to ban texting while driving, far fewer have chosen to ban the use of handheld cell phones while driving. Using a handheld cell phone drastically increases your chance of being in an accident. New Mexico is one of the states that have chosen to ban the use of handheld ... [more]

Does Nevada require vehicle inspections?

When you are registering your vehicle for the first time, you are required by Nevada to get an emissions inspection if you live in Clark or Washoe Counties. You will also need to have your vehicle’s emissions inspected when you renew your registration. Failure to have your vehicle tested will ... [more]

What should I study for the Missouri motorcycle knowledge test?

If you want to get your motorcycle license in Missouri, you’d best be prepared to pass the motorcycle knowledge test. This test will cover your knowledge of various aspects of being motorcyclists, such as: • Crash avoidance • Knowledge of your motorcycle’s parts • How to handle riding ... [more]

What happens if I don’t pay my Driver Responsibility fees in Michigan?

The Driver Responsibility program is designed to penalize those drivers who have accumulated either seven or more points on their driver’s license or have committed a category two offense. Category two offenses are sufficient in and of themselves to warrant a Driver Responsibility fee and rather ... [more]

Do I have to register my moped in Maine?

Mopeds are increasingly popular devices for getting around with the high price of gasoline. Some can get as many as 100 miles per gallon. Mopeds are often in a separate class when it comes to licensing and registration. Maine defines a moped as a two or three-wheeled vehicle with wheels under 10 ... [more]

What is the penalty for a third DUI in Kansas?

If you are convicted of a third-time DUI in Kansas, you’ll be considered a felon and must deal with the fallout associated with that status. You’ll also face the following penalties from the state of Kansas: • Jail – 180 days to 1 year: o Must serve 144 consecutive hours before work ... [more]

What actions can result in a license revocation in Illinois?

When you’ve committed an offense that Illinois considers unworthy of a person holding a license, they will revoke your license and require that you undergo the licensing process to get it back. Your license can be revoked in Illinois for the following offenses: • Aggravated DUI • Aggravated ... [more]

Can you explain the parts of an automobile insurance declaration sheet (part 4)?

The first part of this explanation covered the various parties involved in the insurance policy, the second covered the vehicle, and the third part listed the coverages. The fourth part of the automobile insurance declaration sheet, or dec, covers any credits or surcharges. This is where you’ll ... [more]

I got into an accident and we checked each other’s cars. There was no damage. Should I still report it?

Since there was no damage or injuries, there is really nothing to report. In fact, in most states there must be at least $500 work of damage to report the accident to the ... [more]

How do I get my moped license in Minnesota?

If you currently hold a driver’s license, you do not need a special license to drive a moped. If you do not currently have a license, you can get a Moped Operator Permit. You need to go to your local DMV. To get your permit you must: Be at least 15 years old. Present proper ... [more]

How long does it take to get a license in California?

Because of the new driver’s licenses and IDs being issued by California the wait is still six weeks. You can find out more about the delay and the new cards ... [more]

I lost my title in Virginia, how do I replace it?

You can request a replacement in one of three ways: Online Over the phone (1-888-337-4782) In person at a DMV office You’ll need to have: Your registration Your driver’s license A completed “Application for Supplemental Lien and Transfer Liens or Replacement and Substitute ... [more]

What does it cost to replace my lost Texas driver’s license?

It costs $25 to replace your license in Texas if you are between the ages of 18 and 65. If you are under the age of 18 the cost will be $16. For those over the age of 65 the cost will only be ... [more]

How long do I have to title a vehicle I purchased in Arizona?

You have 15 business days from the time of purchase to apply for a title. You can do that at any MVD ... [more]

What does it cost to transfer a Texas license to Florida?

Because you have a valid Texas driver’s license, you won’t need to take the written or road test to get your Florida license. Therefore, you’ll need to pay $48 to get a new Florida ... [more]

If I just got 3 moving violations in Illinois, will they suspend my license?

It is possible that they will suspend your license if you are convicted of all 3 or if you are convicted of 2 and are under the age of 21. Three convictions in a 12-month period for anyone over the age of 21 can result in suspension. Two convictions in a 24-month period for anyone under the age ... [more]

What do I need to do to get a license in Illinois if I’m 15?

The first step towards getting your license will be to get your instruction permit. To get an Illinois instruction permit you will need to do or get the following: Parent/guardian consent is required to obtain an instruction permit. You must be enrolled in an approved driver education ... [more]

How long does a 12-point suspension in Ohio last?

Your license will be suspended for six months. To reinstate your license you’ll need to do the following: You must successfully complete a remedial driving instruction course given by an accredited remedial school. If you are 18 years of age or younger you may complete the juvenile driver ... [more]

I just moved to Maryland, what do I need to do to register and title my vehicle?

You can apply for a Maryland title and registration at any the MVA’s full service branch offices, or you can mail the documents to: MVA’s Out-of-State Title Unit 6601 Ritchie Highway Glen Burnie, MD 21062 Typically, you will need to submit the following forms to obtain a title for ... [more]

Can I drive in Illinois with my Missouri driver’s permit?

Yes, Illinois law allows a person with a valid instruction permit issued in another state to drive a vehicle when traveling through the state. You must be driving within the parameters of the permit and have the permit in your immediate ... [more]

Should I feel rushed about getting my first license?

Never. When you get a license is up to you. If you don’t feel ready, then you probably aren’t. All states require some kind of driver’s education if you are under 18, and some require it for applicants beyond that. This would be a good first step for you. Take the course and ... [more]

I lost my license and tried to apply for a replacement license online but it requires your license number and I don’t know it; what should I do?

Your local DMV may give you this information over the phone if you are able to provide some other identity information, but it is unlikely. The simplest route is to just go to the DMV and provide the information and fees that are required by your ... [more]

How do I check my points in Wyoming?

Wyoming doesn’t have a formal point system like most states. They track the number of violations you receive instead. If you get four moving violations in one year, you will have your license suspended. The penalties for infractions are set by counties so there are a large variety of ... [more]

My mom wants to transfer her car to me, but she lost the title. She lives in California and I live in Arizona; what do we need to do?

Because this is a transfer between parent and child, California will classify it as a family transfer. For a family transfer you will need to follow the following steps: You must record this transfer of ownership within 10 days from the date you take possession. Because the title is lost, ... [more]

What does it cost to renew a license in New York?

The fee schedule for license renewal is as follows: Class A, Class B or Class C - $164.50/$180.50 - Valid for eight years Class E - $112.50/$128.50 - Valid for eight years Class D or Class DJ - $64.50/$80.50 - Valid for eight years Class M or Class MJ - $72.50/$88.50 - Valid for eight ... [more]

What does it cost to transfer the title of a car my brother gave me in California?

The title transfer fee is $18. If you are planning to use the vehicle at all, you will also need to register it for $34. Because your brother has given you the vehicle, you are exempt from smog recertification and the use tax. However, you’ll need to fill out a Statement of Facts Form in ... [more]

If I have a permit, can I go to another state to get my license?

You can only get a license for the state in which you live. So, if you live in Florida and have a Florida permit, you must get your license in Florida. There is no way to shortcut the driver’s licensing system. If you mean that you have moved from one state to another then it depends. ... [more]

How much do 30-day tags cost in Ohio?

Temporary tags, often called 30-day tags, cost $18.50. For a list of other fees, check out the Ohio BMV ... [more]

What happens if I drop my collision and comprehensive coverage in Michigan?

Michigan is considered the “model” no fault state. In fact, they are a pure no-fault state. If you do not carry comp and collision and you get into an accident with another vehicle where the other vehicle is at fault, they will not pay out for any collision damage for you. The most that will ... [more]

I let my car insurance expire on 12-31-10. However, I got into an accident on the 28th and did not report it until January 10th. Am I still covered?

Yes. As long as you can prove that the accident occurred on that date (by an accident report or witness testimony, etc.), you will be covered for that accident since it occurred during the policy period. It does not matter that you reported it past the date of the policy ... [more]

I notice car insurance policies have all of these parts. Why?

Insurance policies represent a sum of many coverage sections. They contain language and rating calculations around the following coverage types, if applicable: Bodily injury liability Property damage liability Collision Comprehensive (Other than collision) Towing Medical ... [more]

My son got into an accident driving my vehicle, on which the insurance had expired. The other driver submitted a claim to the old insurance company and received a denial. Will they come after me?

Yes. The uninsured motorist portion of the policy will pay for the damages on the other driver’s car. What will probably happen next is that the insurance company will come after you for the damages. They may be willing to set up a payment plan with ... [more]

Can you cancel an insurance claim that you have made?

It is not called cancelling a claim. In most cases, you will be able to ask the adjuster to close a claim. You will probably be questioned, so make sure you have a good reason for wanting to close the ... [more]