Top 5 Tailgate Tips: Protecting Your Passengers and Car This Fall

CLEVELAND, Oct. 1, 2009; As fall arrives, sports fans are stocking their cars with grills, food and friends and heading out to enjoy the game. If you're tailgating this year, check your car insurance policy to ensure you're covered for any accidents or theft that could occur.

Car insurance rates have decreased significantly since last fall, so those shopping for a policy now could save hundreds of dollars. According to Insurance.com's September RateWatch report, the average rate quoted was $1,855 per year, compared with $1,949 last fall - nearly a $100 drop.

"I always advise sports fans to check their policies before heading to a game, to make sure they're covered for the costly dents and scratches that can occur in the parking lot," said Sam Belden, vice president, Insurance.com. "And if they're not covered for non-driving accidents, now is a great time to shop for insurance. Many drivers are eligible for much lower rates on equal, or more comprehensive, coverage."

  Taking Your Car to the Game? Consider These Tips:

  Watch Out for Tailgate Parties

Much can happen during tailgates, like vehicle damage from vandalism, grill fires, or flying footballs. If you only buy collision insurance you won't be covered for vandalism, non-driving accidents and fires. You must buy both collision and comprehensive coverage for full protection.

Don't Leave Valuables in the Car

Parking lots are prime targets for car theft and robbery, especially when thieves know you're away from your car for an extended period of time. To prevent robbery, don't leave valuables like your GPS or iPod visible. Bring your wallet and cash with you. Many auto insurance companies won't cover items stolen from a car - even if they were securely stored in your trunk.

Use Caution When a Friend Takes the Wheel

If a friend gets into an accident while driving you car, it's your responsibility. The accident will go on your insurance record and your premium could rise.

Don't Drink and Drive

Not only is drinking while driving deadly, but also it's expensive. According to Insurance.com data, the average lowest rate quoted to drivers with a Driving While Intoxicated violation was $435 more than those without violations.

Upgrade or Change Your Auto Insurance

If your auto insurance policy doesn't cover non-driving accidents, or stolen property from your vehicle, log on to Insurance.com to find one that does. Find affordable coverage with multiple rates from top providers.

The RateWatch report data is based on the lowest average car insurance rates quoted in each state. See the complete car insurance rate report.

About Insurance.com

Located in Cleveland, Ohio, Insurance.com is the top online auto insurance agency in the U.S., and offers comparison automobile insurance quotes consumers can buy online or by phone. Insurance.com provides instant, accurate comparison rates from fifteen top companies. For more, visit http://www.insurance.com/.