Selecting a policy is easy when you ask the right questions.

Car insurance shoppers often mistakenly assume that asking a prospective insurer coverage-related questions will make the buying process slower and more difficult. In reality, asking a few basic questions up front can make your decision easier and will save you the stress of regret after making an uninformed decision. The providers that offer auto insurance quotes on our site are easy to get a hold of and are always willing to answer potential customers' questions. Take a few minutes to ask the following questions to maximize your satisfaction with your new auto policy.

If you plan to buy collision and comprehensive coverage, you should ask your insurer if they require the use of non-factory parts for repairs after a collision. Non-OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts are much cheaper than OEM parts, but they also tend to be of lower quality. They could even jeopardize your safety in some cases. As you compare the policies on which you receive auto insurance quotes, make a note of the insurers that will pay for OEM parts for your vehicle after a loss. Although the cost of such policies might be slightly higher, it is worth the additional expense.

You will also need to inquire about the discounts for which you qualify with each provider. Every insurer offers a different array of discounts to its policyholders, and it's important to ask about the impact these discounts will have on your rates before you commit to a particular policy. For instance, with one insurer you might qualify for discounts that will reduce your premiums by 20 percent, which would affect your auto insurance quotes and your coverage decisions. Have your prospective insurers give you a list of the discounts available and the size of each discount so you can calculate your policy's real cost.

Next, ask your potential insurance companies if they consider your credit rating when calculating your auto insurance quotes. Most car insurers use credit reports specially designed for insurance purposes in determining the level of risk you pose. Find out if your insurer engages in this practice, and if you have bad credit, ask how much it will cost you. The car insurance quotes you see may underestimate your future insurance costs if you have credit challenges.

In the event of a loss, you need your insurer to be easily reachable. As such, you need to ask prospective car insurers how and when you can file a claim if you become a policyholder. The claims process should not be daunting and difficult. Ask your potential insurance company if they have a 24-hour claims number. You never know when a loss will occur, and it's important to initiate your claim as soon as possible, which is why a 24/7 claims number is critical. Also ask if your insurer only allows you to file claims via telephone or if you can also complete the process online. For most consumers, the online claims-filing process is much easier, as insurers who offer this service also allow policyholders to track the progress of the claims they file.