As more and more Americans decide to vacation away from home, the question about insurance coverage and rental cars is bound to come up. When you rent a car online, you are only a few steps into the process when the matter of what type and how much insurance you want to take out on the rental vehicle. No one wants to pay for auto insurance they don’t need. At Senn Insurance Agency in  O’Fallon, MO, our experienced team is here to make sure you know the coverage that you have and don’t overpay. 

One answer is not sufficient for every person. A lot depends on the amount and type of auto insurance that you carry. If you have basic auto coverage, which is liability only, you will not have adequate coverage with a rental car. While that will protect you from being sued, it will not cover the rental car itself and if you have an accident, you could be left holding the bag for the entire repair or replacement cost for the rental car. 

If you are comfortable with the amount of liability coverage that you have on your personal auto policy, it should be right for a rental car. If however, you don’t have a new car, your collision and comprehensive coverage may not be enough for the car you are renting. Talking to your independent insurance agent about the limits of your personal coverage will put your mind at rest. 

Rental car companies offer collision damage waiver insurance which relieves you of responsibility in the event that you have an accident. If you can afford it, it takes the stress out of driving a rental vehicle. Cost versus stress, you have to decide what makes you more comfortable. 

Contact the Senn Insurance Agency in O’Fallon, MO for all your auto insurance needs. 

There comes the day when your child becomes a teenager and starts to drive. Though you may not be prepared for your little one to grow up, you must be ready and prepared for their driving experiences in O’Fallon, MO. Protect yourself and your child by ensuring they have insurance coverage under your auto insurance policy. If you are unsure of what type of coverage you need for your teen, reach out to our specialists at Senn Insurance Agency for assistance in answering your auto insurance questions. 

Teenage Driver Coverage

Auto insurance policies provide coverage for your vehicles when operated by a covered driver. Under some circumstances, insurance companies will extend coverage to unlisted drivers when the policyholder permits them to use their car. However, if the driver lives with you, they must be included in the policy because they are not included under the provision to allow others to operate your vehicle. Some insurance companies provide coverage for teen drivers who do not yet have their driver’s licenses. 

Driver Exclusion

When your teenager receives their license, your insurance company may automatically charge for their coverage. If you do not want your teen listed as a driver in your home, you may have to sign a driver exclusion form. Just know if you choose this option, your teen may not be covered to drive your vehicle. 

Shop Around

Ensuring you and your child are protected while driving is essential for your financial protection. After checking your policy, contact your insurance company for your coverage options and costs. If necessary, you may need to shop around and find a new insurance company that offers you the coverage you need at an affordable price. 

When your teen starts to drive, check your auto insurance policy to verify they are covered to drive in O’Fallon, MO. Call our team of professionals at Senn Insurance Agency for help adjusting your policy or to sign up for a new policy to cover your newly-licensed teen driver. 

You need your vehicle to get back and forth to work, the grocery store, doctor appointments, and a multitude of other places, so you will need to ensure it is protected. The auto insurance agents at the Senn Insurance Agency in O’Fallon, MO understand the importance of auto insurance.

In Missouri, all drivers must have at least a liability insurance policy in place through an insurance agent, proof of financial responsibility filed with the Department of Revenue, or a certificate of self-insurance to legally drive. Basically, all drivers must have the minimum amount of insurance that is required.

It is also a good idea to have uninsured motorist coverage in conjunction with underinsured motorist coverage. This will protect you and your vehicle, along with your passengers, if there is an accident that is deemed to be the other driver’s fault. That person does not have any insurance or does not have enough to cover the damages and injuries.

Collision Insurance

A collision auto insurance policy will pay for damages to your vehicle if you collide with another vehicle or an object. For example, if you back into a building and cause damage to your vehicle and the building, your collision policy will cover damages to both.

Comprehensive Insurance

Comprehensive insurance will cover your vehicle if it needs to be repaired or replaced due to a fire, vandalism, natural disaster, or stolen.

To obtain the right amount of auto insurance for you and your situation, it is best to contact an auto insurance agent with the experience. In Missouri, you can contact the auto insurance agents at the Senn Insurance Agency in O’Fallon, MO to obtain a quote or get your auto insurance policy started right away.

While there is no mistaking that driving a vehicle ignites independence, it is also dangerous – particularly for new drivers. As a new driver, here’s what you can do to ensure your safety while on the road.

1. Put Your Phone Away

Driving is the time to limit distractions so that you can keep your eyes on the road. Don’t even tempt yourself with the ability to look at your phone by placing it in the glove box or in the seat behind you. If you have to make a phone call, use Bluetooth or a system like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto – all three of which are now found in many newer vehicles. 

2. Watch Your Speed

Maintain the speed limit and be mindful of other drivers around you. Stay in the far right lane as much as possible and allow vehicles traveling faster the opportunity to pass you on the left.

3. Adjust the Mirrors and More

Since it is likely that a new driver is sharing a vehicle that may be used by another person of a different height or body style, it is important to always check the mirrors and adjust the seat prior to putting the car in gear. 

4. Follow the Signs

Pay attention to your surroundings and recognize the speed limit on the same road may vary. Furthermore, everything from hazards to blind spots are identified on road signs so it is important to always look at them.

5. Know the Car

Take the time to review your vehicle’s manual so that you know everything from where the headlights are located to how to change the air conditioning temperature.

When it comes to first time drivers, quality auto insurance with excess liability coverage is a must. Contact the team at Senn Insurance Agency in O’Fallon, MO to learn more about our auto insurance options.