Auto Insurance

The right auto insurance coverage can help protect you from paying significant out-of-pocket costs following a covered incident. Gerhart, Hartman & Ritner is here to help you navigate your auto insurance needs and build a policy that provides ample coverage at an affordable price. Contact us today to get started.  

How Does a Car Insurance Policy Work? 

 

Auto insurance is a contract between you and an insurance company where you pay a premium in exchange for financial protection in case of damage, loss or liability related to your vehicle. Auto insurance helps safeguard you against unexpected costs and legal liabilities associated with owning and operating a vehicle. You can typically choose what coverages to add to your policy. However, in Pennsylvania, you must carry minimum amounts of medical payments coverage, bodily injury liability and property damage liability. Other optional coverages include collision, comprehensive and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, each with specific limits and deductibles.  

If an accident occurs during your policy term, you can file a claim against your policy, providing the relevant information and documentation. The insurance company will assess the claim to determine the coverage amount. Depending on the incident and type of claim you’ve filed, you may need to pay a deductible, and the insurance company covers the remaining expenses up to the policy limits.  

What Does Comprehensive Auto Insurance Cover? 

 

In general, comprehensive coverage is a type of auto insurance that provides protection for your vehicle in case of damage caused by incidents other than collisions. It offers financial assistance for costly repairs or replacements resulting from various events, such as theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, falling objects and animal collisions. Comprehensive coverage ensures you’re covered for various noncollision-related risks, giving you peace of mind and helping you manage unforeseen expenses. 

What Factors Determine the Cost of Auto Insurance? 

 

There are a variety of factors that may be considered when an underwriter is determining your auto insurance premium. Some of these factors, such as where you live, your age, inflation and market conditions, may be out of your control. But others, such as driving history, make, model and value of your vehicle, past claims history and marital status, may also used to determine your costs.  

How Can I Lower My Car Insurance Premiums? 

 

If you’re trying to keep costs down, consider the following strategies for lowering your car insurance premiums: 

• Maintain a clean driving record
• Ask about discounts (e.g., multipolicy or good driver discounts)
• Adjust deductibles (e.g., raise a deductible to lower your premium) 

How to Get Auto Insurance 

 

Pennsylvania drivers can trust Gerhart, Hartman & Ritner to help them find a quality auto insurance policy that meets their needs and fits within their budget. Contact us today for your free policy quote.