You've set the first few steps of responsibly informing yourself about the mechanics of car insurance, the advantages of the different types of policies, the factors that affect premium rates, and the general application process for getting your vehicle insured. You may even have an automobile insurance company of your preference in mind. The next step now is to make sure that your investment will not turn out to be zilch before lodging your short term car insurance application form or all your efforts of becoming an informed and protected consumer will go to waste. There are numerous scams, tricks, and swindling schemes out there that may happen to even the most knowledgeable of clients. It will help if you always keep a sharp mind, and be aware of any dodgy terms of agreement when purchasing coverage for your vehicle.
The most advertised car insurance company may not necessarily be the most reliable. If you come to think of it, anyone can have advertisements and commercials made as long as they have the money for it. Companies that offer numerous discounts may not always be that trustworthy either. Of course there will be the occasional rare gem where you have an amazingly great deal on your short term car insurance but most of the time, offers will be too good to be true. Many consumers usually fall for the discount scheme and are lured into the arms of the dishonest insurance company. Initially it does come out like you're paying less but as the months go by, you'll notice that what you're paying for goes up. In other instances, the discount lies in the coverage and benefits.
Short term car insurance may also be low-balled. This is a common scam where illegitimate companies offer you great prices and deals on your premium. By the time the policy is in effect, the company sends you a bill of a much higher rate then merely explains that there was an error in the computation of the rates and that you actually owe them more than what has been agreed upon.
Beware of numerous agencies or individuals who pose as middlemen, agents, or representatives working for a car insurance company. Even if they have a storefront or proper office, bear in mind that anyone with the means and intentions can do that. Letterheads, business cards, signages, proof-of-insurance cards, and logos can easily be forged and manipulated just to trick you into purchasing your short term car insurance from them and run off with your money before realizing that they're phony and illegal. Never fall for free quotes or services in exchange for personal information; you can get your identity stolen.
