There are a number of factors that affect premiums. Where you live is one. In general, city dwellers have higher premiums than those who live in the suburbs or rural areas do, because statistically, you are more likely to have an accident in city traffic.

In some areas, your age, sex and marital status are important factors. Drivers under the age of 25 are involved in more than one-third of all auto accidents and traffic fatalities. Young female drivers have fewer accidents than young males. Married couples have fewer accidents than single people do.

Vehicle use is another factor that affects your premium. A car used just for pleasure, with limited use, will generally cost less to insure than a car driven to work and back five days a week.

Your driving record has a direct impact on insurance premiums. If you have a history of "at fault" accidents and moving traffic violations, you can expect your premiums to be higher than average because, statistically, you're more likely to have future accidents.

Companies set their rates in part by how many claims and accidents their insured's have, so they must adjust the rates accordingly. Other factors affecting the cost of insurance are fraud, the rising frequency of lawsuits and the amounts of awards, inflation and the rising costs of medical care, automobile parts and labor.

• Consider increasing your deductible.
• Consider dropping collision coverage as your car gets older.
• Maintain a good driving record.
• Drive safely.
• Look for any discounts you may qualify for. For example, discounts may be offered if you insure multiple cars under the same policy, or if you have had a Driver Education class. Other discounts that might be available are airbags, anti-lock brakes, passive restraint, anti-theft devices and good student discounts.
• Consider the cost of insurance for the model when buying a car. Choose a car that is less expensive to insure.

Both cover damage done to your car. Collision covers damage to your car that occurs when it collides with something, whether you hit an object, like a tree, or another car.

Other Than Collision provides coverage for most other types of damage or loss such as vandalism, theft, fire and storm damage.

• Wear and tear
• Freezing
• Mechanical breakdown
• Road damage to tires by potholes
• Tapes, records, CDs and certain other personal property
• Any customization you do to your vehicle after it is purchased, unless you notify your insurance company
• Sound equipment (CD players, AM/FM cassettes, TV) is covered under your automobile policy, if they are permanently installed.

Yes, if your car phone is permanently installed and covered under a special endorsement.

Yes, provided you have given your permission.

• Safely stop your car and get help for the injured.
• Have someone call the police. Tell the police how many were injured and the types of injuries. The police can then notify the nearest medical unit.
• Give whatever help you can to the injured but avoid moving anyone so you don't aggravate the injury. Covering an injured person with a blanket and making a person comfortable usually is as much as you can do.
• Provide the police with whatever information they require.
• Do not lay blame or admit fault.
• Ask the investigating officer where you can obtain a copy of the Police Report. You will probably need it when you submit your claim to your insurance company.
• Try to protect the accident scene. Take reasonable steps to protect your car from further damage, such as setting up flares, getting the car off the road and calling a tow truck. If necessary, have the car towed to a repair shop. But remember, your insurance company will want to have an adjuster inspect your automobile and appraise the damage before you order repair work done.
• Make notes. Keep a pad and pencil in your glove compartment. Write down the names and addresses of all drivers and passengers involved in the accident. Also, write down the license number, make and model of each car involved; record the driver's license number and insurance identification. Record the names and addresses of as many witnesses as possible, as well as, the names and badge numbers of police officers or other emergency personnel. If you run into an unattended vehicle or object, try and find the owner. If you can't, leave a note containing your name, address and telephone number.
• Record the details of the accident.
• As soon as possible after the accident, telephone your insurance agent or company. Ask them how to proceed and what forms or documents will be needed to support your claim. Your company may require a "proof of loss" form, as well as, documents relating to your claim. For example, medical, automobile repair bills and a copy of the Police Report. Supply the information requested.
• Keep records of your expenses. Expenses you incur as a result of an automobile accident may be reimbursed under your policy. This could include medical and hospital expenses, lost wages, and at least part of your costs if you have to hire a temporary housekeeper.
• Keep copies of your paperwork. Store copies of all paperwork in your own files. You may need to refer to the copies later.

First, there are guidelines that determine the "book value" of your car, taking into consideration the age, condition and any options. After an accident, an Independent Appraiser and a repair shop will determine the extent of the damage to your car and agree on the cost to repair it. If the cost to repair is more than the "book value", the insurance company will "total" the car and pay you the book value for the car.