lowest auto insurance: April 2010

Automobile coverage in CA can become complex depending on a person’s specific needs and is often misunderstood by consumers which may leave them with the wrong type of policy and/or underinsured. The Golden State requires that motorists follow the Financial Responsibility law in order to register and operate a vehicle; what this means is that motorists must have compensation in place in the event that they cause injury or property damage to a third party while operating their automobile.

Complying with the state’s Financial Responsibility law can be done in a few different ways; a vehicle owner can make a cash deposit of $35,000 with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), obtain a surety bond in the same amount from an insurer licensed to do business in the state or use the most common method of obtaining a California auto insurance policy from a licensed carrier. Californians who choose to purchase policies must obtain minimum limits of liability in the amount of $15,000 for bodily injury to one person, $30,000 for bodily injury to two or more people and $5,000 for property damage; motorists should be aware that this coverage does not cover any property damage or injuries that are sustained by the insured.

Additional Info About CA Car Insurance

A large number of individuals who choose to purchase an auto insurance policy often buy policies with the lowest limits that the state allows; this is usually because it is most likely the most affordable coverage since it offers the least protection. Unfortunately what many do not realize is that California has some of the lowest requirements in the nation and purchasing these low limits can leave motorists liable for the cost of injuries or damages that exceed what is covered by the policy. For example, if a motorist strikes a high end vehicle and causes damages in the amount of $12,500; if the minimum is carried for property damage then the insurer will only pay $5,000 toward the damage and the policyholder could be held responsible for the remaining $7,500.

Many industry professionals and consumer guides suggest that motorists purchase policies with limits of $100,000/$300,000/$50,000 to help avoid facing financial hardships in the event that a third party is seriously injured or substantial property damage is caused by the policyholder. Although these limits may be much higher than what is required and can become expensive for some individuals, it may be wise to buy limits as high as can be afforded. In addition, motorists should be aware that the state requirements will not pay for injuries or damages sustained by the insured and additional coverage must be purchased to cover expenses if this were to occur. The California Department of Insurance Information Guide explains the optional types of coverage such comprehensive and collision which will help pay to repair or replace an insured’s vehicle.

By selecting MetLife Auto & Home’s group insurance program through your employer, you will receive special savings, outstanding service and a wide range of policies to suit your needs. You’ll save time and money with our hassle-free payment options. You’ll get access to knowledgeable insurance consultants whose only goal is to give you great customer service. It’s purchasing insurance made easier!

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Group customers get more!

In addition to the many discounts and features available on our standard policies, find out why group customers get more:

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Payroll deduction. Premium payments are automatically deducted from your paychecks. Paying your premiums has never been so easy, or so smart. There are no interest charges or service fees. Plus, you could save as much as 10% on your premiums.
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Special group rates. Group discount available just for purchasing your coverage through your employer. Saving money just got more convenient.
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Tenure discount. Employee longevity can qualify you for additional discounts! The longer you’re a member of your group, the larger your discount — up to 20%!
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Garaging discount. If you park your car in a garage, you may save up to 20%.
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One-call service. Our 24/7/365 claim reporting and customer service professionals are all available through one toll-free number—1 800 GET-MET 8 (1-800-438-6388).

Are you eligible for our group program?

If you’re not sure if your company or group offers access to MetLife Auto & Home’s program, ask your human resources or employee benefits representative.

Your peace of mind is guaranteed

Between a job, family, and upkeep of your house and autos, we know that life can get very busy. The last thing you want to add to your to-do list is researching insurance companies and policies for the best coverages and rates. You'll have no worries with your insurance from MetLife Auto & Home®.

Call our insurance experts and they will find the right coverage that best suits your needs, as well as talk through any questions you have. It goes beyond our best-in-class coverage; most importantly, we'll be here when you really need us, after an accident or other disaster.

Get a free quote today

It’s simple to apply in the group insurance program or receive a free, no-obligation insurance quote.

* Auto quotes. Click Instant Auto Quote and enter the requested information OR call toll-free at 1 800 GET-MET 8 (1-800-438-6388) for all of your insurance needs
* Find a Group Agent near you

Are you an employer or broker?

If you’d like to find out how the MetLife Auto & Home’s group insurance program could benefit your employees or corporate customers, send us an email at GPAutoHome@MetLifeservice.com or call Voluntary Benefits Sales at 1-800-570-0560.
FAQ

Group Insurance Program
Check out these frequently asked questions for explanations about MetLife Auto & Home®'s group insurance programs for auto and home insurance and more.

What makes MetLife Auto & Home's group program different from policies provided outside this program?

Because your employer/association has arranged to provide you access to this program as a company benefit, we are able to provide discounted rates and special other “perks” because you are part of a participating group. Your employer may also provide the option of payroll deduction as a payment method – making it so easy and convenient, you will never have to think about writing another check.

You can be sure to expect the same best-in-class coverage, unique features and superior service that comes with every MetLife Auto & Home policy.

How can I get insurance quotes or participate in the group insurance program?

Our Insurance Sales Center is ready to answer all your questions. For group customers, our consultants are available Monday through Saturday. We have extended weekday evening hours to give you more accessible, convenient service.

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Auto quotes. Click Instant Auto Quote and enter the requested information.
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OR call toll-free at 1-800-GET-MET8 (1-800-438-6388) to speak with a licensed consultant.
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Application and general insurance questions. Call 1-800-GET-MET8 (1-800-438-6388) during operating hours (Eastern Standard Time) Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.; Friday, 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and Saturday, 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Or email your questions anytime to: GpAutoHome@MetLifeservice.com.
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Or you can locate one of our local Group-specific agents for an in-person consultation.

What are my payment options?

MetLife Auto & Home's group insurance program offers you many payment options so you can choose what's easy and convenient for your lifestyle. With most options, your premium payments are divided equally throughout the policy term (in some cases a down payment is required). Your options may include:

* Payroll deduction makes paying your premium easy and convenient
* Monthly recurring credit card
* ExpressIT®, which makes automatic deductions from your personal bank account
* Traditional home billing
* Mortgagee billing for home and condo insurance customers

What happens to my insurance policies if I retire or leave my company?

No worries! You could continue your MetLife Auto & Home coverage without interruption. (Subject to applicable law, individual qualification and local availability. If you moved interstate upon your termination, not all policies are available in all states.) Although payroll deduction will obviously not be available if you retire or leave your company, you may be able to pay your insurance premiums through our ExpressIT® our bank account deduction option, or by credit card, home billing, or, in some cases, pension deduction.

What happens if I go on short-term disability, such as maternity leave, and my premium is deducted from my paycheck?

Your MetLife Auto & Home insurance coverage will stay in effect throughout your leave, subject to policy terms. However, if you were on payroll deduction and you're not receiving a regular paycheck from your employer, you will receive a bill directly from MetLife Auto & Home. When you return to regular employment, your payroll deduction can restart with a simple phone call to 1-800-GET-MET8 (1-800-438-6388).

Is the claims service any different for group customers?
No, claims can be reported 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Just call 1-800-854-6011.

Instant Auto Quote

Get an instant auto quote today and start saving! See how affordable it is to start really protecting yourself. With MetLife Auto & Home®, if you are part of a of a participating group, you could get unique advantages that you generally won't find with other carriers - all at no additional charge:

* Special rates and discounts as part of an employer or association benefits program
* Payroll Deduction payment option (where available)
* Replacement Cost for Total Losses3
* Deductible Savings Benefit2
* Identity Theft Resolution Solutions1
* Replacement Cost for Special Parts3
* Enhanced Rental Car Damage Coverage3

Call 1 800 GET-MET-8 (1-800-438-6388)5 and speak directly with someone who can guide you in choosing the right policy for you and your family.

* Get an Auto Quote Now
* Retrieve my Saved Quote
* Find a Group Agent

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1. Identity Theft Resolution Service automatically provided to auto, RV, mobile home (NY only), motorcycle, home, renters, condo, GrandProtect®, PAK II, and Platinum customers. Not available to auto customers in NC and NH, nor to home customers in NC.

2. Not available in all states. In NY, a state-required minimum deductible is required before using this benefit.

3. Subject to deductible and state availability. See policy for restrictions. Not available in MA or NC; special parts coverage not available in TX.

*Telephone quotes are not available in all states.

MetLife Auto & Home is a brand of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company and its Affiliates, Warwick, RI