4 Reasons for Using a Broker/Agent vs Going Directly to an Insurance Carrier
Ohioans may feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of options for insurance coverage. Choosing between going directly to an insurance carrier and using a broker or agent can be difficult. Here are four reasons Sandusky residents should consider working with a broker or agent:
Access to Multiple Carriers. A Sandusky broker or agent representing Ohioans has access to multiple carriers, free from any bias toward one specific company, giving Ohioans more choice and control over their policy selections. With this access comes greater expertise in understanding each carrier's costs and coverage details, enabling Ohioans to make more informed decisions when selecting policies.
Price Savings Opportunities. A Sandusky broker/agent is often able to negotiate better pricing than Ohioans could get going directly to the carrier. Ohioans can also benefit from discounts that they may not have otherwise been aware of.
Time Savings. A broker or agent saves Sandusky residents time by doing much of the legwork for them. They will be familiar with Ohio's insurance laws and regulations, making it faster for Ohioans to secure coverage as opposed to having to research what is needed on their own.
Dedicated Support Throughout the Year. A broker/agent provides Ohioans with personalized service throughout the year, keeping up-to-date on policy changes and helping Ohioans renew their policies in a timely manner when necessary. This dedicated support helps Ohioans feel confident that their needs are being met.
By working with a broker or agent, Sandusky drivers can rest assured that they are in good hands. They will have access to multiple carriers, price savings opportunities, time savings and dedicated support throughout the year. All of these factors make using a broker/agent an attractive option for Ohioans shopping for insurance coverage.
4 Reasons Insurance Companies Declare Vehicles Totaled in Ohio
Ohio has some of the highest automobile insurance premiums in the country due to its large population and dense traffic. As a result, Sandusky residents must be particularly aware of how their vehicles are valued and how insurance companies are likely to handle issues with damaged cars. One issue Ohioans may encounter is when an insurance company declares their vehicle totaled following a major accident or other incident. Here are four common reasons why Ohio auto insurers might declare a car totaled:
Extensive Damage: If the damage done to a vehicle would cost more than 80% of its total value to repair, most Ohio insurers will deem it uneconomical to repair and declare it to be totaled. This is often the case for older cars that may have numerous pre-existing issues and a low market value.
Safety Issues: Ohio insurers will also declare vehicles totaled if they have sustained significant structural damage or have an issue that would compromise the safety of the driver or passengers in any way. This is done to ensure that Ohio drivers remain as safe as possible while on the road.
Age Restrictions: Ohio insurers may also decide to total a vehicle that has exceeded certain age restrictions, such as those cars over 15 years old, as these vehicles are less likely to be worth repairing and pose a greater risk for Ohio drivers due to their lack of modern safety features.
Cost Analysis: Ohio insurers will conduct a cost analysis when assessing damaged vehicles, taking into account both the cost of repairs and the value of the vehicle before it was damaged. If they determine that repairing the car would cost more than its worth, they may opt to declare it totaled instead.
4 Things to Know Before Going to an Auto Body Shop in Ohio
If you're in Sandusky and facing a minor auto body repair, it can be difficult to know where to turn. Whether it's getting a new paint job or dealing with more serious damage, Ohio has numerous auto body shops that can help you get your car looking and running its best. Before committing to any shop, though, there are some important things to consider. Here are four pieces of advice for finding an Ohio auto body shop that will meet your needs:
Check the Shop's Qualifications: Many Ohio cities like Sandusky have specific qualifications that auto body shops must meet before they can operate. Make sure the shop you're considering is licensed to do business in Ohio and has met all necessary city requirements for auto body repair.
Research Costs and Insurance Coverage: Sandusky auto body shops offer a variety of services, so it is important to get an estimate before you commit to any work. Many Ohio auto body shops also accept insurance coverage; make sure you inquire about whether your shop will accept yours before moving forward.
Read Reviews and Ask for Examples of Past Work: It's essential that you know what kind of quality to expect from the Ohio auto body shop you choose, so take some time to read reviews online or ask for examples of previous work done by the shop. Some Ohio cities like Sandusky may even have program in place where customers can rate their experience with local businesses - this can be a great way to inform your decision.
Get a Guarantee: Ohio auto body shops should always guarantee their work and use quality parts in any repair or restoration job. Make sure the shop you choose offers a warranty on all services, so if there's ever a problem with your car after the work is done, they are willing to make it right without extra cost.
4 Steps of Insurance Claims Process After an Accident in Ohio
Sandusky OH has a well-defined process for filing insurance claims after an accident. Knowing the four steps of the Ohio insurance claim process can help you obtain a successful outcome after a collision.
Step 1: Gather Documentation. Before starting an Ohio insurance claim, make sure to collect all necessary documents and evidence that will be needed. This includes photos of the accident scene and any damages, as well as medical bills if applicable. It also includes police reports and contacts of any witnesses or people involved in the crash who can corroborate your story.
Step 2: File an Ohio Insurance Claim Form. After collecting all relevant documentation, fill out the Ohio Department of Insurance's auto insurance claim form online or download it from their website. This form will require information such as your insurance policy number, the date of the accident, and other relevant details.
Step 3: Meet with an Ohio Department of Insurance Adjuster. Once you submit the Ohio auto insurance claim form, a claims adjuster from Ohio's Department of Insurance will contact you to discuss the case further. The adjuster will typically meet with all involved parties in order to review evidence and determine fault or lack thereof.
Step 4: Receive Settlement Payments. After reviewing your Ohio auto insurance claim and speaking to all parties involved, the Ohio Department of Insurance will make a decision about liability for the collision and any potential payments that need to be made by either party's insurer. If both parties agree on the claim, payments will be issued shortly thereafter. In Ohio, it is important to remember that all insurance claims must be reported within 60 days of the accident in order to qualify for payment.
10 Best Electric Cars by Range in Ohio
Sandusky drivers have a lot of selection when it comes to electric cars, but if you're looking for the longest range available in Ohio, then you've come to the right place. We've compiled this list of the 10 best electric cars by range that are currently available in Ohio. From the Tesla Model X Long Range to the Kia Soul EV, here are Ohio's top 10 picks for long-range EVs:
Tesla Model X Long Range: 400 miles
Chevrolet Bolt EV Premier: 259 miles
Hyundai Kona Electric Limited: 258 miles
Nissan Leaf Plus S+: 226 miles
Audi e-tron 55 quattro Premium Plus: 204 miles
Kia Soul EV X-Line: 243 miles
Honda Clarity PHEV Touring: 47 miles electric range, 340 total range
Hyundai Ioniq Electric Limited: 170 miles
Volkswagen e-Golf SEL Premium: 124 miles
Mercedes Benz B250e: 87 miles
10 Best Hybrids by Range in Ohio
Ohio is a great place to own an electric or hybrid vehicle. From plug-in hybrids to extended range electric vehicles, Sandusky residents have a wide variety of options to choose from when it comes to greener driving. Here are 10 of the best hybrids by range available in Ohio:
Toyota Prius Prime - The Prius Prime offers up to 25 miles of all-electric drive and 54 mpg when running on gasoline. Ohio drivers can expect up to 640 miles of total range with this car.
Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid - With 47 miles of all-electric range and an EPA rated 42 mpg combined, the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid offers Ohio drivers up to 460 miles of range.
Chevrolet Volt - Ohio drivers can get up to 53 miles of all-electric range from the Chevy Volt, along with an EPA rated 106 MPGe when running on gasoline. This vehicle offers Ohio drivers up to 420 miles of total range.
Hyundai Ioniq Electric - With an EPA rated 136 MPGe, Ohioans will love the Ioniq Electric's 124 miles of all-electric range and added capability of going another 500+ miles on gasoline when needed.
Ford Fusion Energi - Ohio drivers can expect a 21 mile electric only range and 40 mpg combined EPA rating from this mid size sedan. The Fusion Energi provides Ohio drivers with a total range of 500+ miles.
Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid - Ohio drivers looking for a crossover option should consider the Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid, which offers up to 26 miles of all-electric range and an EPA rated 105 MPGe combined. This car gives Ohioans up to 560 miles of total range.
Nissan Leaf Plus - Ohio drivers can expect an impressive 226 miles of electric only range from the Nissan Leaf Plus, along with 25% more power than its predecessor. Ohioans will get up to 610+ miles of total range with this vehicle.
Tesla Model 3 - Ohioans interested in going full electric can look no further than the Tesla Model 3. Ohio drivers will enjoy up to 310 miles of all-electric range and an EPA rated 126 MPGe combined.
BMW i3 - Ohio drivers can look forward to 97 miles of all-electric range and an estimated 111 MPGe with the BMW i3. Ohioans can expect up to 400+ miles of total range from this vehicle.
Audi A3 e-tron - Ohio drivers who want a luxury option should consider the Audi A3 e-tron, which offers 16 miles of electric only drive and 83 MPGe when running on gasoline for a total range of 540+ miles.
10 Best Diesel Vehicles in Ohio
Sandusky is a great place to live and work, and with the right vehicle, you can make your life even better. If you're looking for a reliable and powerful ride, the diesel engine is an excellent choice. This list of the 10 best diesel vehicles in Ohio will help you find the perfect car or truck for your needs. From pickups to SUVs, Ohio has it all when it comes to diesel-powered vehicles. Whether you need a vehicle for off-roading or just commuting around town, these are some of Ohio's top choices for diesel engines.
Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD - The 2500 HD is one of the most popular pickups in Ohio due to its strong frame and powertrain options. It comes standard with a 6.6-liter turbocharged diesel engine that delivers an impressive 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque.
Ford F-250 Super Duty - This full-size truck packs plenty of power and comes with a 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 diesel engine that makes up to 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. It also has best-in-class payload capacity, making it great for hauling heavy loads.
Ram 2500 Heavy Duty - The Ram 2500 is a reliable workhorse that's capable of taking on any tough job you have in mind. It's powered by a 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel I6 engine that produces up to 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque.
Jeep Grand Cherokee - Ohio's favorite SUV comes with an optional 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine that produces 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. It also offers great fuel economy and off-road capability, making it the perfect vehicle for any adventure.
GMC Sierra 3500 HD - If you need a heavy-duty truck with plenty of power, then the GMC Sierra 3500 HD is a great choice. This full-size pickup comes equipped with a 6.6-liter diesel V8 engine that delivers up to 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque.
Nissan Titan XD - The Titan XD is a powerful and capable pickup that's perfect for Ohio's toughest jobs. It comes with an available 5.0-liter turbocharged diesel V8 engine that makes up to 310 horsepower and 555 lb-ft of torque.
Chevrolet Colorado - Ohioans who need a midsize truck will love the Chevy Colorado, which is available in both gas and diesel versions. The diesel model comes with a 2.8-liter Duramax turbodiesel four-cylinder engine that produces up to 369 lb-ft of torque and 186 horsepower.
Ford Super Duty F-350 - Ohio is home to some rugged terrain, making the Ford Super Duty F-350 an ideal choice. It comes with an available 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbodiesel engine that produces 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque.
Mercedes-Benz G550 - Ohioans who want a luxurious ride will love the Mercedes-Benz G550, which comes standard with a 4.0-liter twin turbocharged diesel V8 engine that makes up to 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque.
Toyota Tacoma - For Ohio drivers looking for an off-road vehicle that won't break the bank, the Toyota Tacoma is an excellent option. The TRD Pro model features a 3.5-liter V6 turbodiesel engine that produces up to 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque.
10 Cheapest Mileage Cars to Insure in Ohio
Sandusky drivers need a reliable and affordable car to get them from point A to point B. Fortunately, there are several cars on the market with low insurance premiums that make them ideal for Ohioans. Here is a list of 10 of the cheapest mileage cars to insure in Ohio:
Honda Accord - This midsize sedan offers great fuel economy and reliability at an affordable price. The average annual premium rate for the Honda Accord is $1,302.
Toyota Corolla - Another popular midsize sedan, the Corolla gets good gas mileage and has a low insurance premium rate of $1,323 per year.
Hyundai Elantra - With impressive safety ratings and fuel efficiency, the Elantra is a great choice for Ohio drivers. The average annual insurance rate for the Elantra is $1,323.
Ford Focus - This compact car is known for its reliability and fuel economy. Ohio drivers can expect to pay an average annual premium of $1,404 for the Focus.
Toyota Camry - This popular midsize sedan offers good safety ratings and low insurance premiums of just $1,417 annually.
Nissan Altima - The Altima has great fuel economy and excellent crash test scores making it an ideal choice for Ohioans looking for an affordable car with low insurance costs ($1,427 per year).
Honda CR-V - This crossover SUV offers good fuel economy and a low insurance premium of $1,433 annually.
Subaru Outback - This all-wheel drive vehicle is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, as well as its reasonable insurance premiums ($1,446 per year).
Mazda3 - Ohioans looking for an affordable car with great fuel economy should consider the Mazda3. The average annual insurance rate for the Mazda3 is $1,462.
Honda Civic - This reliable compact car has excellent safety ratings and a reasonable average annual premium rate of $1,477, making it one of the cheapest cars to insure in Ohio.
Cost of Car Insurance in 6 Different Age Groups in Ohio
Ohio is one of the most affordable states for car insurance, with low premiums and great coverage options. In Sandusky, the average cost of car insurance varies by age group. To help you get a better understanding of what to expect in terms of car insurance costs in Ohio, we've broken down the averages by six different age groups.
For drivers under 25 years old, Ohio's average car insurance rate is $1,926 per year, which is lower than the national average. Drivers between the ages of 25 and 34 have an average annual premium of $1,508 in Ohio—significantly lower than the national average of $2,223 per year. For drivers aged 35 to 44 years old, Ohio has an average annual premium of $1,361—again lower than the national average. Ohio drivers aged 45 to 54 years old can expect an average cost of $1,267 per year for car insurance, while those aged 55 to 64 have an Ohio rate of $1,205 annually. Ohio's cheapest rates are seen with drivers aged 65 and over, who pay a mere $958 annually.
Overall, Ohio is one of the most affordable states in terms of car insurance costs, no matter what age group you fall into. With low premiums and great coverage options available, Sandusky Ohio is a great place to find reliable and affordable car insurance.
5 Driving Violations That Require High Risk Insurance Ohio
Sandusky OH drivers should be aware of the state's driving laws, which can lead to high-risk insurance if broken. The following are five of Ohio's driving violations that require a driver to obtain high risk insurance:
Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Ohio has strict DUI laws and penalties for those who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drivers convicted of a DUI in Ohio must have their license suspended for at least six months and may be required to pay fines up to $1,000 as well as court costs. Additionally, they will also need to obtain SR-22 insurance commonly referred to as ‘high risk' insurance.
Reckless Operation/Aggravated Vehicular Homicide: Ohio's laws take reckless driving seriously and any drivers convicted of doing so will be required to obtain high risk insurance. This includes anyone convicted of aggravated vehicular homicide, which is a second-degree felony offense in Ohio.
Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO) Status: Ohio law states that a driver can be designated as an HTO for three years if they are found guilty of multiple traffic violations within five years. If a driver has been designated as an HTO, Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles will require them to have SR-22 insurance before they can reinstate their license or registration.
Leaving the Scene of an Accident: Drivers who fail to stop after being involved in an accident can face serious penalties including a suspended license and possible jail time. Ohio drivers found guilty of this offense must obtain high risk insurance before reinstating their license or registration.
Not Carrying Insurance: Ohio law states that all drivers are required to carry auto insurance at all times when operating a vehicle in Ohio. Drivers who are caught driving without the minimum required auto insurance will have their license suspended and may be fined up to $500. They must obtain SR-22 insurance before they can reinstate their license or registration.
Top 8 Car Insurance Companies by Least to Most Expensive in Ohio
Ohio has some of the most competitive car insurance rates in the country. To help Sandusky drivers find the best deal for their needs, we've compiled a list of the top 8 car insurance companies in Ohio from least to most expensive.
USAA: USAA offers some of Ohio's lowest premiums and excellent customer service. It is open to active military members and veterans, as well as their families.
Ohio Mutual Insurance Group: Ohio Mutual is a mutual property and casualty insurer based in Ohio that specializes in providing coverage tailored to meet individual customer needs at an affordable price.
State Farm: State Farm is one of Ohio's largest insurers, offering customizable policies and competitive rates.
Ohio Auto Club (AAA): Ohio's auto club offers a variety of discounts to help you save on your car insurance premiums, including multi-vehicle, good student, and defensive driver discounts.
Allstate: Allstate has been serving Ohio since 1931 and provides coverage options tailored to fit your needs.
Erie Insurance: Erie Insurance offers customers a variety of coverage options at competitive rates. It also boasts excellent customer service ratings for Ohio drivers.
Progressive: Progressive is well known for offering some of the most affordable car insurance rates in Ohio and its Snapshot program allows drivers to save even more money based on their driving habits.
Geico: Ohio drivers can save money on their car insurance with Geico's range of discounts, as well as its easy-to-navigate online platform.
3 Different Auto Insurance Discounts in Ohio
Sandusky drivers may be eligible for a number of different auto insurance discounts. From good driver discounts to safe vehicle discounts, Ohio residents can save money on their premiums by taking advantage of these available savings opportunities.
Good Driver Discounts: Ohio requires all drivers to have liability insurance coverage and insurers reward those who are safe and responsible with lower premiums. Drivers in Ohio who have clean driving records and no at-fault accidents may qualify for discounts based on how long they've been accident free.
Vehicle Safety Discounts: Sandusky car owners can also get a break on their car insurance if they own vehicles that are considered to be safe. Many newer cars come equipped with safety features like anti-lock brakes, airbags, and automatic seat belts, which can qualify Ohio drivers for discounts on their car insurance.
Multi-Vehicle Discounts: Sandusky drivers who insure multiple vehicles on the same policy are often eligible for discounted rates. By bundling multiple cars into one policy, Ohio drivers can save money while still getting the coverage they need to stay protected.
4 Auto Theft Statistics in Ohio
Auto theft is a risk all Ohio residents should be aware of. According to statistics from the Ohio Department of Public Safety, Ohio saw 9,012 motor vehicle thefts in 2018 - an increase of 8 percent since 2016. Here are four auto theft stats Ohio drivers should know:
Ohio ranks 22nd nationally for auto thefts per capita and 24th for total motor vehicle thefts according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB).
Ohio had a rate of 225.7 motor vehicle thefts per 100,000 people in 2018 compared to the national average of 228.9 per 100K people that same year.
Ohio ranked 13th nationally for its recovery rate with 64% of stolen vehicles returned to their owners.
Ohio's metropolitan cities of Cleveland, Akron and Cincinnati, ranked 17th, 20th and 28th in population-adjusted motor vehicle thefts in 2018, respectively. Ohioans should be aware of the risk for auto theft especially when living in or traveling through these urban areas.
10 Interesting Driving Statistics in Ohio
Ohio drivers have lots of roads to explore and plenty of chances to experience the open road. But with that comes some risks, too. Here are 10 interesting Ohio driving statistics to be aware of in 2022:
Ohio ranks 5th in the nation for most highway fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (2.98).
In Ohio, there were 4,631 fatal crashes between 2017-2019 resulting in 5,053 total deaths.
42% of all fatal Ohio car accidents involve at least one driver being impaired by alcohol or drugs in 2020.
Ohio is home to 1,724 miles of interstate highways as of 2021.
Ohio saw a 4.1% increase in overall traffic accidents between 2019-2020.
Ohio ranks 29th in the nation for number of drivers without auto insurance at 13%.
Ohio has the 18th lowest fatality rate from distracted driving (0.8 per 100,000 people).
Ohio averages 1,042 crashes involving deer each year as of 2021.
Ohio is home to 2,300 miles of U.S.-designated routes as of 2021.
Ohio requires all drivers to wear seat belts and use child safety seats or booster seats if appropriate for the age and size of their children regardless of where they are sitting in the car as of 2021.
FAQ Section
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What is the average car insurance rate in Sandusky Ohio?
The average rate for Sandusky is $1,014. Look for discounts to make this even more affordable.
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What is the minimum coverage required in Sandusky OH?
In Sandusky Ohio, your policy must have at least $25,000 of coverage for injuries per person, up to a total of $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 of coverage for property damage.
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How much is car insurance typically for 2 vehicles in Sandusky OH?
Average cost for two vehicles in Sandusky is $2,616. This can of course vary greatly with liability only, full coverage, or SR-22 insurance.
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How can I get cheap car insurance in Sandusky OH?
To get low cost car insurance in Sandusky, OH, simply fill out the form above and compare quotes then pick the best one.
