How long do tickets stay on my record?
All minor traffic convictions and accidents remain on your driving record for three years. Alcohol related major violations remain on your driving record for ten years. Points for traffic convictions and chargeable accidents are added and removed at the renewal of your policy. There is no change to the policy during your policy period to add or delete points.
What should I do if I have an accident?
First, make sure you, your passengers and others are not injured. If there are injuries call 911 immediately. Second, in most states the police should be notified. Third, you should give your information to the other driver(s). Provide your name, address, and telephone number. Also let them know your auto insurance coverage is through Big Savings Insurance. Then get this same information from the other driver(s). Finally, contact your insurance carrier at your first opportunity. Contact information may be found on your insurance identification card. If you have any questions or need help, please feel free to contact us.
How does Big Savings Insurance have great rates for all types of drivers?
When you contact us for an insurance quote, we shop dozens of insurance companies to find the most appropriate coverage at a great price. Some of our insurance carriers specialize in good drivers, while others write mostly high-risk drivers. No matter what your situation, Big Savings Insurance can place you with an auto insurance company that’s right for you at a very competitive price.
What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Even though liability coverage is advisable and often required, there are many people who do not buy insurance. If an uninsured motorist causes an accident you may not be able to recover any damages that you sustain. If you purchase Uninsured Motorist Coverage, your auto insurance company will pay you for the property damage and bodily injury caused by an uninsured motorist. It will cover you, any family member, and anyone occupying a covered automobile. The limits for this coverage are usually the same limits that you selected for liability, although you can choose lower limits. There are also times when a person who causes an accident has liability insurance but your damages exceed the limits of that person’s coverage. In some states Underinsured Motorist Coverage is included in your Uninsured Motorist Coverage. In other states, you can purchase underinsured motorist insurance, which covers your excess losses up to the limit set forth in the policy.
How much Liability Coverage do I need?
Most state laws require that you carry a minimum amount of liability insurance, which pays for the injuries or damages you cause to someone else. While some people need only the minimum level of protection, others have assets that they need to protect. If you are unsure about how much liability insurance you need, consult an Big Savings Insurance insurance professional. We can tailor a program to provide the right amount of protection for you and your family.
When will I receive my insurance policy and first bill?
Typically, you will receive your policy within 4 to 6 weeks. The due date of your first installment will vary depending on the pay plan you have chosen. For Bristol, your first payment may be due within 14 days. The first installment for the Mercury “3 pay” plan is due within 43 days. For most “monthly pay” plans, the due date is 30 days after inception. Review all of the material you receive carefully; your first installment bill may be included with your copy of your policy, or it may be mailed separately. Ask your sales representative or customer service representative for details of your specific pay plan.
I have a question about a payment or bill. Who do I contact?
Many of the Big Savings Insurance insurance carriers enable you to pay your premium online.
Please note that Big Savings Insurance does not accept payments – they must be made directly to your insurance carrier.
If you have any questions, please email us or call (916) 830-9200 to speak with a customer service representative, Monday through Friday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
How do I contact your customer service department?
Visit our Customer Service Department or dial (916) 830-9200 and follow the prompts of our automated customer service menu. Our customer service representatives are licensed professionals who can help you with a variety of issues. Please have your policy number ready for expedited service.
Please Note: We experience heavy call volume on Mondays, Tuesdays and on the day following a holiday. If your request is not time sensitive, you may wish to call us Wednesday through Friday for fastest service.
Does Big Savings Insurance offer Mexico Vehicle Insurance?
Yes, Big Savings Insurance does offer Mexico Vehicle Insurance. Mexico Vehicle Insurance is a necessary coverage for driving in Mexico as the Mexican government does not recognize U.S. insurance policies.
If I am involved in an accident that is not my fault, should I still report the claim to my insurance company?
Yes, all accidents should be reported to your insurance carrier regardless of fault. By reporting it, you assure the prompt handling of your claim and avoid possible problems in the future should you be held liable for the claim. Please visit Carrier Claim Contacts to find how to contact your carrier.
Does my auto insurance company send proof of auto insurance electronically to the DMV?
Yes, most of our companies comply with this DMV regulation. Auto insurance companies have 30 days to notify the DMV.
I am moving out of California, does Big Savings Insurance provide insurance in any other state?
Yes, our National Personal Lines unit can take care of your insurance needs nationwide. Please call (916) 830-9200 for a quote.
Do I have a grace period on my renewal?
No, renewals are due on the date specified. However, some companies offer a period of time when the policy can be renewed with a lapse in coverage without having to rewrite the policy.
I purchased a new vehicle and the dealer advised me that I had 30 days to add it to my auto insurance policy, it this correct?
No, you should request the addition of your new vehicle as soon as possible. Each policy has different requirements for adding a vehicle and depending on what coverages you request, a shorter period of time is given. Also, by adding a new vehicle as soon as possible, you can avoid a delay to your claim settlement in case of an early loss.
Why am I paying a higher insurance premium than my neighbor?
Not all insurance policies are the same. You may have higher limits or more coverage than your neighbor. There are a number of other factors that can affect the cost of your auto insurance, such as, driving record and experience, usage, and discounts.
My sister is visiting from out of town, will my auto insurance policy apply if she drives my car?
Some companies do extend coverage to permissive drivers, however, certain restrictions may apply. If permissive use is allowed by your carrier, it allows limited coverage to any individual who is not listed as an excluded driver on the policy and had the express or implied permission of the named insured, to use the vehicle that is covered on the policy without charging premium. For more information email us.
How soon will my requested changes be made?
You choose your own effective date later on in this process. We will send confirmation when changes are made to your policy. Your change cannot be effective earlier than the date and time you request it.
How does Big Savings Insurance keep my information secure?
Please review the Big Savings Insurance privacy policy page located at the footer of our homepage . We do not sell any of your information or share it with third parties, except as needed to service your account. You can be sure that we use every precaution to keep your personal information 100% secure.
How long will it take to submit a change online?
Most requests can be completed within 5 minutes.
What information do I need to add a driver?
You will need the drivers license number, date of birth and employment/school information.
What information do I need to add a vehicle?
You will need the year, make, model and vehicle identification number. You will also need the purchase price and current odometer reading.
Do my coverage limits need to be the same on each vehicle?
Your liability limits must be the same for all vehicles on the policy. Physical damage coverage can vary from vehicle to vehicle.
Will DMV be notified automatically that my vehicle is insured?
Most of our carriers will file your proof of insurance electronically with the DMV. To be safe, you should always carry an ID card in your vehicle.
Is there a discount for full-time students?
Unmarried full-time students with a 3.0 (B average) or better may be eligible for a discount. Please feel free to contact us to find out about that, and other discounts we offer.
Do I need to obtain insurance for a Sea-Doo or Jet Ski?
You should obtain proper coverage for liability. You may also want to add physical damage coverage as well.
Do I need an Condominium policy if my Home Owners Association has a Master Policy?
The master association policy often times does not include coverage for your personal property in the home, your personal liability, or interior structural items such as carpeting, cabinets, etc.
Can I add my property manager/landlord to a Renters policy as an Additional Insured?
We do offer some carriers who will allow this option.
Does a Homeowners policy cover my jewelry?
Jewelry is usually covered on a Homeowners policy, but is subject to the carrier’s underlying limit, a sublimit that is typically lower than the limit of coverage for all of your property. If additional coverage is needed beyond this amount, most carriers will allow you to schedule the item for an additional premium, based on the appraisal value.
What is mechanical breakdown coverage?
Mechanical Breakdown coverage, depending on the level of coverage, can protect virtually all mechanical and electrical components of your vehicle. Coverage is available for both new and pre-owned vehicles. What makes it even better for you is if you sell your vehicle the coverage is transferrable and adds resale value.
Will Big Savings Insurance call me before my change is made?
We may need to contact you depending on the change request. We will always send confirmation once the changes have been made to your policy.
How do I email documents to Big Savings Insurance?
You may email documents to custserv@bigsavingsins.com.