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Research insurance options to get best deal
by Lori Ernst
When looking for the best deal in insurance, a good driving record can be an important asset.
Of five agents questioned about the most important thing when looking for insurance, all five immediately said the record of the driver was the most important factor in determining the deal they could get.
There are, however, a number of other steps that should be taken by people, especially students, who are in the market for insurance.
The first step should be to shop around and make sure that you find a qualified agent. Ernie Collyer, a farmer's Insurance agency, suggested looking through the Yellow Pages for management people who are listed under a company logo. Call and ask the regional or district manager for the names of their more experienced and professional people. The shoppers should seek these people out and discuss their needs with each. Also find someone who takes the time to explain things well.
Jim Toyne, an independent agent, suggests that people should always try to use a referral and get the name of someone who has proven he gives good service. Toyne also suggests physically checking the office.
"You don't want someone who is working out of a back room to insure you." Towne said.
Toyne also said that finding someone you feel comfortable with is a key factor.
"Avoid people who aren't service oriented." Toyne said. "Insurance is a personal thing—like choosing a doctor. A doctor might be qualified, but if you don't like his style or his manner, you'll probably switch. It should be the same with an insurance agent."
Another source of information when searching for insurance is an independent company called Best, which assigns ratings to companies based on their financial stability and their claims record. A rating of A+ denotes the top rating. This is a good way to differentiate between two companies if all other things are equal.
For most people, however, the rates are the deciding factor. The insurance business, unlike many others, is highly independent, and rates vary dramatically from company to company. The manpower involved, whether or not their claims office is local or out of town, and their willingness to pay out claims are all factors that determine rates.
The main factor that determines
rates, however, is the record of the driver. Anyone who has more than one ticket or one accident within the last three years cannot qualify for preferred rates. This automatically increases rates one half to four or five times.
Collyer suggests ordering a motor vehicle report from the police department to determine exactly what is on your record.
Other factors that can affect rates are if the driver is a non-smoker or a student maintaining a B average or better. Either will qualify the driver for discounts. In some cases the discount can mean as much as a 25% savings. Age also affects rate; the younger the driver the higher it will be.
Sex is another rate determinant. With exactly equal circumstances, the insurance for a male, 16-25, is about 50 percent higher, which usually means about $400 a year more. The city and zip code of the driver's residence, along with the type and age of the car, also affect the insurance rates.
"There are so many things that affect insurance, and many options for the driver policy-wise," Collyer said. "It is imperative that they shop around and get not only the best rate, but the best agent for them. Cheaper is not always better."
Budget auto expenses by Erica Yenni
Wendy Wilson is working her way through college. She works 25 hours a week at two different jobs to pay for dormitory costs, books and any extras.
Wilson, Overland Park junior, also pays for the taxes, insurance, gasoline and repairs for her 1984 Dodge Colt. How? She budgets.
John Romans, a junior staff member at KU's counseling center, said a student wanting to buy a car should first evaluate his budget to see what he can afford.
"Be plan-conscious instead of being emotionally swayed into thinking you have to have a certain car," he said. "Consider all costs—insurance, maintenance, upkeep and practicalities like parking fees before buying."
"Don't be surprised by the cost of insurance but check around for the best deal." Romans said. At some insurance companies, it is possible for a student to be on his parents' policy, and students should check this option out.
Wilson pays for her insurance by the month, which helps her budget.
"At first I had to pay for it every six months and that really hurt," she said.
She budgets for taxes and tags every year and $1 a week for gas. She doesn't budget any money for repairs, but luckily she doesn't need her car repaired often.
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Fox reasonably priced for students By Vince Long
A college student should look for a car that inspires confidence and enhances driving pleasure. The 1989 Volkswagen Fox combines a skillful mix of contemporary automobile technology to achieve this. The Fox is a resourceful, yet practical automobile that incorporates a combination of German engineering and basic economy.
The Fox is powered by an energetic four-cylinder, 1.8-liter engine, teamed up with fuel injection, and a fully synchronized four-speed transmission. The net result is an EPA mileage estimate of 30 MPG on the highway, and 25 MPG in the city.
The warranties available on the Fox demonstrate confidence in German engineering, known for great performance, handling and safety. The Fox is covered by a five year/50,000 mile Limited Powertrain Warranty in addition to a two year/20,000 Limited New Vehicle Warranty.
The standard interior of the automobile recumbing bucket seats with adjustable head rest, tweed upholstery, electric rear window defroster, intermittent wipers and tinted glass.
The Fox runs between $7,000 and $9,000. The Fox is available at Jim Clark Motors, Lawrence.
Daytona's sleek look backed by high performance by Julie Nall
If you're looking for quality and high performance, Dodge Daytona is the answer. The Daytona is as affordable as it is impressive, making it the perfect car for the KU student.
The Daytona offers every attribute that the serious driver demands in a sports car today. The sleek look and impressive handling make Daytona the right choice. The Daytona ES Turbo is equipped with standard 2-5 liter Turbo I engine. Its technology is shared with the Porsche 944 yet is still priced three times less.
The Daytona is roomy but not too big. The convenient hatchback makes it
great for trips home and weekend getaways, yet it is still small enough for around town driving and parking.
Daytona's impressive standard options include dual braking system, safety rim wheels, five speed close-speed overdrive transaxle, and a 2.5-liter single point electronic fuel-injected engine. There are other thoughtful options which will simply be taken for granted. Dodge also offers a wide array of optional packages including T-bar roof package, leather interior, and rear window sun louvers.
The Dodge Daytona can be found at Jim Clark Motors, 2121 W. 29th Street Terrace, Lawrence.
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