It is sometimes stated that it is hard for a driver with a disability to obtain affordable Fredericksburg car insurance. Although there are some personal accounts of this occurring, due to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, it is against the law to deny anybody with a disability insurance or even to raise the cost of premiums. So why is it that some people with disabilities still find it hard to acquire an affordable auto insurance policy?
A lot of the time the cost of the policy is actually determined by the vehicle and not the driver. Most insurance companies raise the cost of a policy whenever there have been modifications made to a vehicle. These modifications are usually made by individuals who take part in street racing or simply add to the automobile due to personal style preferences. However, because it has never really been stipulated as to what modifications should see an increase in insurance premium costs, some insurers see the addition of any modification as a reason to raise prices. With this being the case, even though modifications made are a wheelchair ramp, a device for easier steering, or hand controls, they are still charged for them.
All is not lost however. You, as a disabled driver are at liberty to point out that changes made to your vehicle are due to your disability and nothing else. Any reputable insurer should acknowledge this and thus not charge extra.
The cost of a policy can also be kept down by,
- Not purchasing an expensive vehicle. The more expensive the vehicle the more expensive the car insurance policy.
- Keeping a clean driving record, as tickets or a history of accidents warrant an increase in insurance costs.
- Highlighting to insurers that you live in a suburban or rural community. Accidents and the chance of your vehicle being stolen are less likely to happen if you live in such an area.
- Belonging to an organization that may warrant you receiving a discount. For instance, any senior citizen organization or military organization.
There are ways that an individual with a disability can obtain lower costing auto insurance. However, remember that if your disability occurs after you have bought your policy, it is vital that you make your agent aware of this. The omission of not having done so will have an effect on any claim that you may make after the fact.
It is against the law for anyone with a disability to be denied auto insurance or be charged a higher premium due to the disability. If you would like any further information on the Americans with Disabilities Act in regards to auto insurance, or simply weigh up your options in regards to affordable policies, give Tabitha E Walker Insurance Agency a call at 540-657-5633. We will be more than willing to help.