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Just got a Prius III tonight. What Car insurance?

Discussion in 'Newbie Forum' started by Mailmandolin, Dec 29, 2009.

  1. Mailmandolin

    Mailmandolin Junior Member

    Joined:
    Dec 29, 2009
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    Location:
    Santa Rosa CA
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    III
    Well I just bought a Prius III. No Navigation. I am tired now and ready for bed. I research the prices and the salesman finally took my offer. Now to find a good car insurance. Any suggestions for me? I don't know where to start 1st on how to use the car. What do you suggest I should do 1st. The book or the DVD?

    Thanks all.
     
  2. Faraday

    Faraday New Member

    Joined:
    Sep 1, 2009
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    Location:
    Tempe, AZ
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    V
    USAA if you have ever served honorably in the US military - great company, been with them for over 50 years!
     
  3. Rhino

    Rhino New Member

    Joined:
    Oct 5, 2009
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    Location:
    U.S.A.
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    III
    Around 1990 or so, I think consumer reports rated car insurance companies and AMICA was considered very good. I signed up with AMICA then and have been happy ever since. Of course, things have changed and maybe they are not the best now. But I've had no complaints.

    I don't think Consumer Reports rate insurance companies anymore. Just sharing.

    You better get your car insurance ASAP. My new Prius is in the shop - hit and run in a parking lot. 3 weeks old. I was not there. $1800++ damage. And I have not even made the first payment yet so I feel bad.

    I do have a tip. My out of pocket expense would have been $500 + rental if it were treated as a property loss - meaning the same as someone broke into your car and stole the radio type situation.

    Because I reported it to the police, got a police report and all. It is now treated as an uninsured motorist event. My deductible is now $200 and free rental. So reporting to the police saved me $500.

    Of course, your policy may differ. I am also not an insurance specialist so don't rely on my info. I am just sharing my situation.
     
  4. PriusLewis

    PriusLewis Management Scientist

    Joined:
    Feb 25, 2009
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    Location:
    Denver Metro
    Vehicle:
    Other Non-Hybrid
    Model:
    N/A
    Welcome to the Forum! And congrats on the new Prius!

    Insurance is about like politics or religions - everyone has their own beliefs and there are certainly enough to go around. I've been with State Farm for 43 years and have had excellent service - never once had them raise a rate for an accident (but that is with very few accidents). I understand they are not the cheapest, especially for new customers. I guess the best way to shop is based on price, coverage, and customer satisfaction. I doubt I'd bother to change to save a few bucks, but if I were just starting out I doubt I would start with State Farm, interestingly enough.
     
  5. ksstathead

    ksstathead Active Member

    Joined:
    May 1, 2007
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    Location:
    Kansas
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    III
    Just got our III w/ NAV 10 days ago. I've read the entire manual and watched the DVD. Start with the DVD. It is a little goofy, but helpful and easy. Then just enjoy the car and read the manual as time permits.
     
  6. kgall

    kgall Active Member

    Joined:
    May 3, 2009
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    Location:
    Olympic Peninsula, WA
    Vehicle:
    Other Hybrid
    Model:
    N/A
    I don't have a specific recommendation but, whoever you go with, ask about discounts that might be specifically applicable to the Prius.

    Some insurers offer discounts for security systems like the SKS system, because the car won't go as long as you take the keyfob with you.

    There may be some Hybrid discounts out there, possibly on the theory that hybrid drivers might be slower and more careful than others.