There's little doubt that buying insurance can certainly be a hassle for most people. While it would be nice to think that a talking gecko could simply gather what information you would need and easily point the way, the real world is unfortunately not that cut and dried. Let's be honest. As much as paying insurance may be an expense few of us enjoy paying for, the reality is quite simple. When a car crash occurs, when a medical emergency happens, or when weather conditions damage our homes, the reality and importance of insurance becomes quite clear. Most importantly in the case of auto insurance, its the law. In the case of homes, its typically required as part of a mortgage agreement.

So, instead of spending every free moment looking over rates, how does one fine the best insurance possible?

One issue many people fail to remember is to think about the quality of coverage that you are shopping for. While it would be wonderful to find the cheapest option, you have to ask yourself if the money you save now will cost you more in the long run. Many cheaper plans offer less coverage or higher deductibles, which means that you will either find yourself not covered, or paying so much up front that your additional coverage is almost nothing in return.

Look over the coverage options, and pick the ones that apply to you and how you live your daily life; and never agree to deductibles that cost more than half of what the damage would be to repair or replace.

Another factor is the reliability and service that the company you are buying from offers. They may have great rates and excellent coverage, but if you have to chase them for information, or pay for items that are covered and then submit your receipts for reimbursement, you might find yourself harried and hassled, trying to get your claimed amount back from the company.

And of course, there are the rates to consider, which most people spend a great deal of their focus on. The best advice here is to find the second-cheapest rates possible, as long as said company still offers the customer service you require, and the overall coverage that will protect you in the situations you require. If you aren't successful in finding these things, your insurance isn't a "good gamble" to protect you in case of an emergency - it's simply throwing money away.