Getting the right answers about insurance starts with asking the right questions, but navigating the complexities of a policy can be tough if you don't know what to ask. How important is it to be protected against uninsured drivers? What about state minimums? Who needs life insurance and what type of policy do they need? What exactly am I paying for when I get car insurance?

If you don't know where to start, let Direct Auto Insurance be your guide! Here are eight questions you should consider when getting an insurance quote.

Before Buying Car Insurance

If you were hit by an uninsured driver, could you pay out-of-pocket for repairs to your car?

Let's say you get rear-ended by a driver without auto insurance. There is serious damage to your bumper, your brake lights, and the trunk of your car. Would you be able to pay out of your own pocket to fix your car? If you're hit by an uninsured driver, you might have to. If you wouldn't be able to pay for these repairs yourself, consider car insurance coverage like Uninsured Motorist. (Note that laws about uninsured motorist insurance can vary by state.)

How old is your car?

You may consider your vehicle to be an investment you've worked hard for, especially if it is a newer model. If you have a newer car, think about options like Comprehensive and Collision Coverage, which would help pay for your car to be repaired or replaced in the event of a vehicle accident, thus protecting your investment.

Do your kids drive?

Usually, a teen with a learner's permit is automatically covered by your car insurance policy. However, once your child gets a license and starts to drive on their own, you need to consider whether it's better to add him/her to your policy or, if eligible, get your child a policy of his or her own. All drivers, including your kids, need to meet the state minimum requirements for car insurance. ( All drivers, including your kids, need to meet the state minimum requirements for car insurance Check here.)

Are you prepared to deal with roadside emergencies?

A breakdown in the middle of the highway could be more than just inconvenient. If you are worried about dealing with breakdowns, dead batteries, and other car-related emergencies, think about getting Roadside Assistance. A Roadside Assistance program like Direct Auto's can speed up the process of getting you back on the road and cover services like mechanical help, lockout service, gas delivery, and 24-hour emergency towing.

If you were in a serious accident, would you have the means to pay for the resulting medical expenses?

A result of a serious accident might include an extended hospital stay, leaving you unable to work for a while. If your family is financially dependent on you, they might have difficulty paying for everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and rent. Plus, if you have kids, you may need someone to look after them while you are not at home. If you are worried about being able to pay for things like this, MedPay Insurance, Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage, Uninsured Motorist Property Damage Coverage, and an Emergency Protection Plan are all options you should explore.

Before Buying Life Insurance

Is your family financially dependent on you?

When considering life insurance, think about the people who depend on you financially. This might include your kids, a spouse, siblings, and/or aging parents. Leaving financial burdens behind can be difficult for the people you love. Affordable term-life insurance can help pay for things like funeral expenses, rent or mortgage payments, medical bills, small daily living expenses that can add up, and/or school bills.

Are you or your family in debt?

Dealing with debt after the passing of a loved one can be difficult, especially when that debt applies to something crucial like a car, a mortgage, or a credit loan. A term-life insurance policy could help pay for some of these expenses.

Do you have expenses that will need to be paid in the future?

The immediate repercussions of the death of a loved one are not the only issues a family may face as they move forward. If you have children or family members who may someday go to college, buy a car, or take on debt, a term-life insurance policy could help your loved ones achieve goals associated with these expenses.

More Help Choosing Insurance from Direct Auto

For more help choosing insurance call 1-877-GO-DIRECT or find a store near you to talk to a friendly Direct Auto Insurance agent.

For additional details and disclaimers, please see our Terms of Use.