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August 25, 2010

7 Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina Auto Insurance


Q: If I’m traveling to other states will my policy protect me and meet the requirements of liability coverage outside of North Carolina?
Yes, your policy automatically satisfies the minimum requirements of other states while traveling outside of North Carolina.

Q: Does my auto insurance policy also provide me with adequate coverage in Mexico and/or Canada?
Your policy will NOT provide coverage for you in Mexico. You can purchase Mexican liability policies before you cross the border if you feel it necessary. Some insurance companies in states that border Mexico such as Texas, Arizona and California specialize in these policies. When embarking on international travel, always check with the appropriate authorities prior to your departure since regulations and other requirements are subject to change any time and without notice.

Q: I just bought a new car; is it automatically insured and covered under my current policy?
You must notify your insurance provider within thirty (30) days of the purchase or acquisition of your new vehicle. The broadest coverage included within your policy for any listed vehicle will apply to any additional automobile. If you fail to notify your insurance provider within the thirty (30) day period, the new vehicle will not be covered. You must provide your insurer with proper notification of sale or acquisition for automatic coverage to be applied.

Q: I’m in the military and currently stationed in North Carolina. Will my policy still cover me if I’m relocated and stationed in another state?
Your policy will cover you during the coverage period in which you are relocated to another state. When your coverage period ends and it’s time to renew your policy, your provider as well as the state in which you are stationed, may require you to purchase a policy in your new state of residence.

Q: Why am I having trouble getting auto insurance because drivers in my household have bad driving records?
Insurance companies consider bad drivers increased risks. In North Carolina, Liability coverage applies to any family member; family members are considered anyone residing in your household. Therefore, since any family member is considered insured under your policy and anyone driving your insured vehicle with your permission is also considered insured, their bad driving records are factored into the risk calculations during your insurance provider’s underwriting process.

Q: How long does it take for my claim to be settled?
An insurance company has thirty (30) days to pay the claim, deny the claim, make an offer of settlement, or notify and advise you that your claim is still under investigation. Once a claim is settled, loss and claim payments should be delivered within ten (10) business days.

Q: If my claim is denied will I receive an explanation as to why?
Certainly; Insurance companies must provide you with an explanation of why your claim was denied in connection with your auto policy language and/or any law(s) that may be applicable.

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