Horn-McGowan Insurance Agency

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Frequently-Asked Questions about Auto Insurance

What information do I need to have handy when applying for a new auto policy?
We will ask you a few questions that will help to determine the cost of your policy. These include your name, address, age, sex, recent accidents, year, make and model of your vehicle. You can take a look at our auto quote request form to learn more.

What factors influence the cost of my auto insurance?
The main factors are:

  • vehicle's value - Policy premium depends on the value and age of the insured vehicle. The newest models are higher-priced and require full coverage policies.

  • age, sex and marital status - Insurance companies charge more for the young and inexperienced drivers. The young male drivers are rated higher than the young female drivers.

  • driving record/experience - Insurance companies evaluate their premiums based on the prior driving experience. Drivers with a clean driving record pay less premium money.

  • requested coverage - Increased limits of coverage cost more and provide a higher degree of protection. A policy with a higher deductible on comprehensive and collision is less expensive than the one with a lower deductible.

How can I lower the cost of my auto insurance?
You can do a couple of things to lower the cost of auto insurance. If you are a young driver consider purchasing an older vehicle that is not high in value. When looking for insurance ask for discounts for which you may qualify, like multi-car discount or driver education class discount. Also increasing your deductible will lower your premium. Our office is equipped with a comparative rater and we will be able to offer you the best coverage at the least expensive premium. Finally, shop for insurance like for anything else. Make sure that you compare the same coverage limits.

My car is very old... do I need to insure it?
Yes, the minimum liability auto insurance became mandatory in the State of Illinois as of January 1, 1991. There is no need to insure the diminished value of the car.

Are my friends covered when driving my vehicle?
Yes, if they do not live in your household, and use the car occasionally with your permission. The best advice is to list all drivers on the policy.

When should I consider purchasing a full coverage policy?
Buy a full coverage policy to protect a high in value vehicle. The new cars are expensive and in case of accident the repair will be costly.

What is full coverage policy?
Full coverage = liability + physical damage

The physical damage consists of comprehensive and collision coverage, both subject to deductibles stated on your policy. The comprehensive covers fire, vandalism, and theft. The collision covers vehicular accidents.

What is a non-owner policy?
If you do not own a car but you need an insurance policy you can purchase a non-owner policy. It entitles you to drive any vehicle that is not owned by your household members. The coverage is liability only. No protection for damage to the car.

Why would I need a non-owner policy?
The Secretary of State of Illinois requires you to have an auto insurance policy to reinstate your driver's license. If you do not own a car and you need your license reinstated, you will need to purchase the non-owner SR-22 policy.

What is a SR-22 policy?
The SR-22 Financial Responsibility Filing Form is a proof of insurance for the Secretary of State. The SR-22 form is attached to your auto policy. Any kind of activity on your policy (like changes, cancellations or reinstatements) will generate an updated SR-22 form which will be automatically mailed to the Secretary of State. The SR-22 policy is written for 12 months, and if it cancels, your driver's license will be suspended again.

How long do I need to keep the SR-22 on my policy?
Usually for a full three (3) years, but it depends on the reason for the suspension of your driver's license.