Learning More About Car Insurance in Bedford
The rich history of Bedford dates back thousands of years, making it a tourist destination for history buffs and anyone who enjoys the beauty of the district. For both residents and visitors, safety on the road is important. While the average number of collisions per 100,000 people in the region has dropped by about 22 over the last five years, it's still too much at 163.8 collisions per 100,000 people. As a driver, you need to review your Bedford car insurance policy to ensure protection if you worry about becoming part of that statistic.
One reason proper car insurance is essential in Bedford is the unpredictable weather. Wind gusts have been known to reach 58 km/h, with the average at 29.7 km/h. This puts your car at risk of damage. With a wet, humid climate and temperatures that often drop below freezing during the winter, road conditions can get dangerous.
Another danger on the road in Bedford is distraction. Approximately 80% of reported accidents could have been avoided if the driver did not pay attention to distractions such as their phones, the radio, their passengers or their lunch. Around 27% of fatalities could have been avoided if the individuals wore seatbelts. Another 30% of fatal accidents could have been dodged if the drivers went the speed limit.
Understanding Required Bedford Car Insurance Coverage
In Bedford, you are required to have minimum coverage. Not only does it protect other drivers and their property, but you avoid the expensive costs of lawsuits that could be the result of your negligent driving. Requirements in Bedford include:
- $500,000 liability for third parties
- $50,000 or four years of coverage for accident benefits
- Uninsured/underinsured coverage
Knowing What Your Options Are
Once you have the minimum coverage, you can opt for more. Your insurance agent can explain the different types of insurance to you, but the following gives you a basic breakdown.
Roadside Assistance Coverage
It can get expensive to get a flat tire or run out of gas on the highway. You have to either pay for a tow truck and a repair shop or someone to assist you on the road. Either way, roadside assistance coverage can help cover those costs.
Comprehensive Coverage
There are all kinds of risks associated with owning a vehicle, and comprehensive coverage takes into consideration many of those. For example, if someone attempts to break into your car and damages it in the process, comprehensive typically pays for the repairs. Weather-related damages are often covered with comprehensive Bedford car insurance, as are many other risks that do not involve a collision.
Collision Coverage
Most collisions your car is involved in will be covered by this type of insurance. If you are involved in a hit-and-run, this should cover the cost. If you run into a guardrail, this should cover the cost.
All Perils Coverage
If you want to cover all your bases, all perils coverage is a good option. It takes comprehensive and collision coverage, rolls them together and adds theft protection to it. Many drivers in Bedford opt for all perils for the most complete coverage.
Specified Peril Coverage
Some risks need to be specified in your policy if you want them covered. This could include earthquake or explosion damage. It could also include damage from a riot or a tow truck. If these seemingly random risks are a concern to you, speaking with an insurance agent will help you decide what to include in the policy.