Auto insurance protects you against financial loss if you have an accident. It is a contract between you and the insurance company. You agree to pay the premium and the insurance company agrees to pay your losses as defined in your policy.

Auto insurance provides property, liability and medical coverage:

- Property coverage pays for damage to or theft of your car.

- Liability coverage pays for your legal responsibility to others for bodily injury or property damage.

- Medical coverage pays for the cost of treating injuries, rehabilitation and sometimes lost wages and funeral expenses.

It's really all about protecting yourself financially.

- If you're in an accident or your car is stolen, it costs money, often a lot of money, to fix or replace it.

- If you or any passengers are injured in an accident, medical costs can be extremely expensive.

- If you or your car is responsible for damage or injury to others, you may be sued for much more than you're worth.

Not only is having insurance a prudent financial decision, many states require you to have at least some coverage.

We are an Independent Agent, an advocate for finding auto insurance that meets your specific needs. Here are a few things to consider as you prepare for the discussion:

- How much can you afford to pay if you get in an accident? (To keep premiums low you may want to have a higher deductible and be willing to pay more for repairs.)

- What is the insurance company's level of service and ability to pay claims?

- What discounts are available? (Ask about good driver, multiple policy and student discounts.)