Most of the time, I feel like I’m just handing over cash for nothing.
Yeah, that’s exactly how it feels. I get why the extras exist, but after decades of driving all over Kansas and beyond, I can count on one hand the times they’ve actually paid off. Honestly, I’d rather risk it and keep a “rainy day” fund for repairs. The paperwork alone is enough to make me want to skip it—last time, it took three calls just to get someone to look at my claim. Maybe if you’re driving gravel roads every day it’s worth it, but for most of us? Not convinced.
Honestly, I’d rather risk it and keep a “rainy day” fund for repairs.
I get where you’re coming from, but I had a fender bender last winter—just a slow slide at an icy intersection—and the repair bill was way higher than my “rainy day” stash could handle. The insurance covered most of it after my deductible, even if the process was kind of a headache. Maybe it’s not worth it every year, but when something big happens, I’m glad I didn’t try to go it alone. Guess it depends on your luck and how much risk you’re cool with.
the repair bill was way higher than my “rainy day” stash could handle. The insurance covered most of it after my deductible, even if the process was kind of a headache.
That’s exactly what worries me. I’ve always tried to keep a little emergency fund for car stuff, but honestly, it never seems like enough when something big actually happens. I had a friend who tried to just pay out of pocket for a minor accident, thinking it’d be cheaper than dealing with insurance, but the costs just kept piling up—parts, labor, rental car, all that. Ended up wishing he’d just filed a claim in the first place.
I get the appeal of skipping insurance or going with the bare minimum, especially with how much rates jump after 65. Feels like they just assume we’re all suddenly terrible drivers or something. But the peace of mind is worth it for me. I’d rather deal with the paperwork than stress about a bill I can’t cover.
One thing I’ve noticed is that some companies will give you a break if you take a defensive driving course. I did one last year (it was mostly videos and quizzes, nothing too painful) and it knocked a bit off my premium. Not a huge amount, but every little bit helps, right? Also, bundling with home insurance made a difference for us.
I guess it comes down to how much risk you’re comfortable with. I’m not much of a gambler when it comes to stuff like this. Maybe I’m just getting more cautious as I get older, but I’d rather have the backup, even if it means paying more up front. The way things are going, though, I might have to start shopping around again... these rate hikes are getting out of hand.
I’m right there with you on feeling nervous about those big surprise bills. I just went through my first time shopping for car insurance and honestly, it’s overwhelming, especially with the age thing making rates jump. Here’s what helped me: I made a list of what coverage I actually needed (not just what the agent suggested), then got quotes from at least five companies. Some were way higher than others for no clear reason. I also asked about discounts for low mileage since I don’t drive much anymore, and that shaved off a bit. Defensive driving courses are worth looking into—mine was all online and pretty painless. It’s a lot, but breaking it down step by step made it less stressful for me.
Breaking down the process really does help. I like how you said,
—do you ever feel like agents push extra stuff just because of age? I’ve noticed some companies barely mention discounts unless you ask. The defensive driving tip is a good one... wondering if Kansas insurers actually knock much off for that?“I made a list of what coverage I actually needed (not just what the agent suggested)”
