Friday, 31 January 2014

Get a Colorado Car Insurance Quote from 21st Century Insurance



Colorado, the "Centennial State," boasts a stunning and wild landscape made from the peaks of the Rocky Mountains, the desert sands of the Colorado Plateau, the sweeping grasslands of the Great Plains, and the busy nightlife of its big cities. Whether you spend your time snowboarding down the Rocky Mountains, or enjoying city life in Denver or Colorado Springs, it's likely you're looking to save money, and 21st Century Insurance may be able to help.

When you get a Colorado car insurance quote from 21st Century, you may find you're eligible for one of many car insurance discounts that could save you money.

Colorado Car Insurance Quote and Discounts from 21st

21st Century offers a variety of car insurance discounts that fit all types of age groups and lifestyles.

If you have car insurance with another company and are looking to switch, 21st offers a transfer discount that can get your savings started right away. And, if you purchase your policy 7-days or more before your current policy expires, you can save through 21st Century's early shopping discount. Additionally, you can take advantage of the claims free renewal discount if you have been continuously insured with 21st Century for at least 6 months, free of accidents and major moving violations.

If you are a Coloradan that has more than one car you may be eligible for 21st's multi-car discount. Just insure more than one car with 21st Century to qualify for the discount. Also, if your car is a year or older, you may be able to save through 21st's one-term new car credit discount.

Drivers who own a car that uses an alternative fuel source may be eligible for a discount through 21st Century. If your car runs on any of these alternative fuel sources, it's considered eligible for the discount.


  • Electric and gas hybrid
  • Electric
  • Ethanol fuel only
  • Methanol gas only
  • Compressed natural gas
  • Propane

21st Century also offers discounts to policyholders who hold additional Farmers insurance policies. If you insure your home with Farmers and car through 21st, you qualify for 21st Century's auto-homeowner discount. Individuals who have renters insurance through Farmers and car insurance through 21st are also eligible for a discount. And, if you have a Farmers life insurance policy and a 21st Century car insurance policy, you too are eligible for a discount.

Additionally, if you have a specialty insurance policy through Foremost and car insurance from 21st, you too are eligible for a discount.

If you're a senior Coloradan, you can also save with 21st Century car insurance discounts. Through our mature driver discount, drivers 55 years or older can save on their insurance coverage. In order to qualify, drivers must complete a state-recognized defensive driving course. Coloradans who are retired, or still working, may be eligible for 21st Century's group discount. Check with a 21st representative to see if your occupation or employer qualifies.

There are also 21st Century car insurance discounts available for younger Coloradans that will help them save significantly.


  • Good Student Discount: For students under the age of 25, who maintain a "B" grade or better
  • Driver Training Discount: For drivers under the age of 21, who complete a driver training course
  • Teen Driver Discount: For drivers under the age of 19 who are the child or grand-child of a primary insured individual who has had their policy in force for two years

If you have a car equipped with additional safety measures, 21st Century will reward you with various discounts. If your car has any of these features, it may be eligible for a discount.


  • Air bags
  • Automatic seat belts
  • An anti-theft system
  • An anti-lock braking system

If you're looking for affordable auto insurance in Colorado, 21st may be the perfect insurance company for you. 21st offers the same great coverage for less in Colorado with discounts that may help you save money.

And don't worry, if you're already a 21st customer, you may already be saving money with one of these discounts. But if you think you're missing out check your policy details at 21st.com or speak with a representative.

Get a Colorado auto insurance quote from 21st Century and see what car insurance discounts are available for you today.

Colorado Car Insurance – Before You Start Driving Here



Whether you're hitting the slopes or heading to the office, make sure you have valid Colorado car insurance when you drive in the Centennial State. Drivers who fail to show proof of insurance can face penalties upwards of $500, points added to their driving record, and in some cases suspended licenses and community service hours. Drivers are also required to show proof of insurance to the Colorado Bureau of Motor Vehicles in order to register vehicles. If you need car insurance or want to switch companies, you can get Colorado car insurance quotes online.

Ski Rack Requirements In Colorado

There are laws on vehicle height and driver visibility that could cause you to be pulled over by the police. When fastening skis and other equipment to the roof, drivers need to make sure there's no visual obstruction, like ski tips that could block the driver's view through any of the vehicle's windshields or windows. If you place a ski rack on a tall vehicle, like an SUV or van, take notice that the rack does exceed the state's maximum allowable height of 13 feet. Violations are subject to fines and surcharges.
Colorado Auto Insurance Minimum Requirements

Vehicle owners driving on Colorado roads are required to have at least the following minimum limits on their insurance policy:

  • Bodily Injury: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident

  • Property Damage: $15,000 per accident

  • Uninsured Motorist: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident*

  • Medical Payments: $5,000 per accident*

*Uninsured Motorist and Medical Payments can be rejected by signing an option form.

There are additional optional coverages that you may carry to better protect yourself and your vehicles. A GEICO insurance counselor can assist you in choosing the best coverage for your needs.
Colorado Teen Driver Licensing Process

For Colorado teens who want to get their license on their 16th birthday, they'll need to start driver's education before age 15. Colorado requires teens to have held a learner's permit for at least 12 months before applying for a Colorado driver's license. Colorado law prohibits drivers under 18 years of age from using a cell or mobile phone while driving unless it is to contact the police, fire department or it is an emergency. Drivers 18 and older may not use a cell or mobile telephone for text messaging while driving unless it is to contact the police, fire department or it is an emergency.

The process for obtaining a driver’s license varies depends on the driver's age:
  • If you start at or before age 15 and 6 months, you must complete a 30-hour driver's education course before you can apply for a learner's permit (minimum age 15). Permit holders who have logged 50 hours driving time, completed a 6 hour behind-the-wheel training course, and have held their permit for at least 12 months can then apply for a driver's license.
  • If you start between age 15 and 6 months up to age 16, you can either complete a 30-hour driver's education course or a 4-hour classroom driver awareness program to be eligible for a learner's permit. Permit holders who have logged 50 hours driving time (plus 6 hours behind-the-wheel training if you are younger than 16 years and 6 months when you apply for a license) and who have held their permit for at least 12 months can then apply for a driver's license.
  • If you start at age 16 or 17, there are no prior driver’s education requirements before being eligible to apply for a learner's permit. Permit holders who have logged 50 hours driving time and who have held their permit for at least 12 months can then apply for a driver's license. Additional 6 hours behind-the-wheel training is optional.

For the first year licensed, driving is prohibited between midnight and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by an instructor, parent or legal guardian.

Commercial Auto Insurance


Commercial Auto Insurance
Whether you're a commercial driver or a business owner who uses commercial vehicles, you need to know about commercial auto insurance.

In some cases, it's to comply with the law. In others, it's to safeguard yourself or your business financially. Without the proper coverage, one accident can jeopardize a CDL driver's financial health or a company's future.

Use the information in this section to educate yourself about possible federal and state insurance requirements. Learn about the types of commercial insurance available. See what kinds of insurance filings apply to your situation. And, discover how to obtain cost-effective insurance protection.


In This Section




Commercial Auto Insurance Requirements




Commercial Auto Insurance Requirements
No matter if you're a commercial driver or a business owner that employs CDL holders, you must be aware of the state and federal requirements that apply to truck drivers.


Each state sets its own commercial auto insurance requirements. State insurance laws cover matters such as the minimum amounts of bodily injury liability and property damage liability coverage that must be carried, with some states mandating additional types of auto insurance.

Meanwhile, federal CDL requirements apply to all commercial drivers regardless of location, and govern issues like minimum age limits, physical fitness, written and skills testing, driver licensing, traffic violations, and hazardous materials transportation.

Browse through our commercial auto insurance articles to see what may be required of you at both the state and federal levels.


Commercial Insurance Filing

Commercial Insurance Filing
As an owner or operator of commercial vehicles, you have plenty of legal responsibilities. And, at times, it's difficult to sort through―and remember―all of them.


Our overview on commercial auto insurance filings will help you understand what paperwork you may need to provide to various agencies to prove you have sufficient insurance for your work or business.

Whether it's commercial auto insurance filings at the federal or state government levels, or for interstate or intrastate trucking, we have you covered. And, we'll explain important matters such as certificates of insurance and the Uniform Carrier Registration Plan, too.

All to make your professional life a little simpler.


Types Of Commercial Auto Insurance



Types Of Commercial Auto Insurance
Commercial auto insurance provides broad protection that can be important to many people, including truck drivers, snow plow operators, tow truck drivers, couriers, business owners, and even pizza delivery guys.

Many of the common types of personal car insurance coverage apply to commercial insurance, such as bodily injury liability, property damage, comprehensive, collision, medical payments, personal injury protection (PIP), and uninsured/underinsured driver.

As a commercial vehicle driver or owner, you may be required to carry some or all of these coverages. Even if you're not, it's still wise to consider having them. A solid commercial auto insurance plan can save you from a financial disaster, no matter if you're an independent contractor or the CEO of a multi-million dollar company.

Take advantage of our information-packed articles on these types of commercial coverage to learn about the protection each provides, and read specific content related to certain vehicles, such as vans, pickup trucks, and box trucks.


Commercial Vehicle Insurance Discounts


Commercial Vehicle Insurance Discounts
Did you know that in addition to specialized discounts like lower premiums for having commercial business experience in areas like trucking and fleet vehicles, you also can save money on commercial insurance with many of the same kinds of discounts you’d use for personal auto insurance policies?

For example, commercial business owners and truck drivers can get discounts for purchasing multiple policies―also known as bundling―with the same provider. They can also take advantage of paid in full discounts, which means they can save money by paying their insurance premiums upfront and in full.

We’ve compiled information about an assortment of commercial vehicle insurance discounts. Jump in and discover how you can start saving money today.


Commercial Auto Insurance Quotes


Would you blindly purchase a personal auto insurance policy without taking some time to see if the rates are reasonable?

Of course not.

So, why not put the same effort into buying a commercial auto insurance policy?

Tips for Obtaining Commercial Auto Insurance Quotes

Whether you're simply insuring your one-person business or a company with dozens or hundreds of commercial drivers and commercial vehicles and trucks, you can save a substantial amount on your auto insurance―if you're willing to comparison shop.

Just like with personal policies, you can easily find the most affordable commercial coverages online. Some quote sites offer the convenience of comparing quotes from multiple providers at a glance.

However, you can visit the sites of individual insurers for a quick quote, too. This can be a good idea for those carriers whose rates aren't listed on independent quote sites―such as some smaller, commercial-only insurance companies.

Once you get a feel for the best rates, follow up with the carriers for details on their coverages. Insurers with the cheapest premiums may only provide protection that's inadequate and comes with truckloads of exclusions. Purchasing your commercial insurance through them could ultimately be a costly decision.

Do you have an independent insurance agent for business purposes? If so, put your agent to work to shop around for you. Keep in mind, though, your agent won't be authorized to sell insurance for every carrier. Thus, your best policy option may not be available.
Ask About Commercial Auto Insurance Discounts

One of the best money saving tips you can follow is to ask about commercial auto insurance discounts.

Most insurers covet commercial business, as it often results in large policies with fat premiums.

So, to entice you, many offer special commercial discounts, such as:


Multiple-policy


Experienced business


Experienced commercial driver



Each of these discounts can reduce your premiums by 5% or more; that means a considerable savings for companies with with big commercial insurance needs. Call the carriers directly to see what discounts your business might qualify for, or see if they're listed online.

And, you can trim your premiums further by choosing high deductibles or paying your insurance annually.

In short, the commercial insurance savings are there for your company―it's just a matter of acting like a smart business owner and finding them.



Commercial Auto Insurance Articles


Commercial Auto Insurance Articles
Our database of commercial auto insurance articles provides business owners and CDL holders with everything they need to know about when to purchase commercial coverage, the kinds of commercial vehicles and trailers to insure, and how to get the most out of their commercial auto insurance policies.

Whether you’re responsible for a couple of commercial trucks or an entire fleet of business vehicles, take a moment to learn about shopping for and comparing commercial insurance quotes―including the kinds of information and documents required to obtain quotes―as well as tips for saving money on your commercial insurance premiums while still getting the right coverage for your drivers and vehicles.

Sport Vehicle Insurance





Sport Vehicle Insurance
If you're a sports enthusiast whose sport involves outdoor vehicles, you'll want to find out about how you can insure those sport vehicles. Whether land or sea toys, replacing a sports vehicle can set you back a lot of money--unless you have the right sort vehicle insurance.

Find out here if you are required to carry insurance on your sports vehicle, how much insurance coverage you need, why it's smart to carry sport vehicle insurance, and how much that coverage is likely to cost you.

Protect your expensive sport vehicle--whether it be a boat, a personal watercraft, a Segway, a snowmobile or an ATV.

Trailer Insurance

Though not required, trailer insurance is one of those forms of protection that you can never appreciate until you need it following an accident. Coverage applies to all trailer types including horse, boat, RV, and utility.

Trailer Coverage


Even though many states require some trailers to be registered, none mandate trailer insurance. Laws vary by state, but in most cases you'll find that your trailer is covered under your vehicle's liability insurance policy. If you cannot find trailer protection listed under your current policy, you should be able to obtain coverage as an add-on to your car's existing insurance plan. For help with this, contact your insurance agent.

This same type of coverage extension also applies to boat trailers. Your boat's insurance policy should also provide protection for your boat trailer against damages.

If you're worried about vandalism, theft, or even having a tree topple over on to your trailer, you may want to consider taking out a separate comprehensive policy for the trailer.

Unlike auto insurance, trailer insurance is extremely affordable. Depending on trailer type and use, it's not uncommon to find trailer insurance for under $75.

Get a Trailer Insurance Quote


If you opt to carry trailer insurance, you should shop around just like you would for car insurance.

Begin searching with car insurance companies. Many top-name auto insurance providers now offer trailer coverage for a long list of trailer types.

To obtain a quote, you'll need to provide:
The type of trailer and what you'll be towing. If it's a horse trailer, for example, you'll need to determine how many horses it will carry.
The trailer's length and width.
The trailer's purchase price.
The trailer's make, model, and serial number.
Whether you plan to use the trailer for commercial or private use.

Additional Insurance Coverage


Need help in learning about insurance discounts? Or are you unsure of your state's insurance requirements. For answers to these and all of your insurance questions visit our Insurance Center. You'll find not only insurance information for cars, but also for motorcycles, RVs, boats, and commercial vehicles.


Colorado Car Insurance



In Colorado, car insurance is mandatory for all drivers. Auto insurance regulations are enforced by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, Division of Insurance.

Until 2003, Colorado was a “no-fault” state, but changed the law in order to help reduce the cost of insurance premiums and help prevent claims abuses.

Colorado car insurance now operates as a tort system, meaning that fault must be established before an insurance company will pay a claim.
Required Car Insurance

Colorado drivers must have liability insurance, which covers only the other car and/or driver when an accident is your fault.

Colorado drivers must have liability coverage at the following minimums:
$25,000 per person for bodily injury.
$50,000 per accident for bodily injury.
$15,000 per accident for property damage.


All other car insurance is optional.
Optional Car Insurance

Colorado auto insurance providers also offer a variety of optional coverage types:
Collision coverage: Helps cover damages to your car caused by hitting other objects, including another car.
Comprehensive coverage: Covers damages to your car caused by non-accident-related incidents or factors, such as theft, extreme weather, and wildlife.
Medical payment (“med pay”) coverage: Must be offered as part of any Colorado car insurance policy.
It covers at least $5,000 toward accidental injuries, regardless of fault.
You can opt out of med-pay coverage or purchase higher coverage limits if offered by your car insurance company.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: Helps cover expenses if you are involved in an accident with a driver who has no insurance or too little insurance.
Rental car coverage.
Loan/lease gap coverage.
Roadside assistance/towing coverage.

NOTE: Finance and leasing vendors require you to have collision and comprehensive car insurance on any financed vehicle.
CO Car Insurance & Registration

The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires you to show proof of auto insurance to register your car or renew your registration.

The DMV will accept any of the following as proof of insurance:
Insurance card.
Copy of car insurance policy.
Printout or fax of insurance policy.
Image of auto insurance card on a cellular phone.
E-mail from insurer.

NOTE: Failure to register your vehicle can lead to penalties or fines.
Violations of CO Car Insurance Laws

Colorado imposes various penalties for violations of insurance laws such as failure to provide proof of insurance during a stop or failure to purchase the minimum required insurance. Read below to learn about the specific penalties.
Failure to Hold Insurance

Failure to have minimum liability insurance results in the following penalties and fines:
4 points on your driver’s license.
$500 minimum fine.
License suspension.
For the first offense, it will be suspended until you can show proof of insurance.
For additional offenses, it will be suspended for up to 8 months.
Up to 40 hours of community service.

Not only do you risk fines and penalties if you do not have minimum liability insurance, but you are also likely to have much higher rates when you re-apply for insurance after letting it lapse.

Always keep at least the required insurance minimums to ensure low-cost insurance rates long-term.
Failing to Carry Proof of Insurance

You must show proof of car insurance if you are stopped by a police officer or if you are involved in a traffic accident.

If you can’t show proof of insurance during a stop, the officer can check the Colorado car insurance database to see if you have valid insurance. However, even if you have insurance, you may still be issued a ticket for failing to carry proof.
SR-22

You may be legally required to file an SR-22 form (also known as SR22 insurance) from your insurance provider if your license:
Has been suspended (or is in danger of suspension).
Has been revoked.

SR-22 requirements vary by type of offense and number of offenses and may be required for 3 months to 3 years.

An SR-22 is not insurance; rather, it is a certification filed by your insurance company stating that you will maintain the minimum liability insurance for a predetermined amount of time.

Failure to maintain your insurance policy with a current SR-22 will result in another suspension of your driver’s license. Essentially, the insurance company notifies the DMV that you are no longer keeping your SR-22 current and the DMV penalizes you.

If you decide that you want a new insurance provider, you have to get your new agent to file an SR-22 BEFORE canceling your current policy and SR-22.
Alternative Insurance for High-Risk Drivers

If you’ve had certain traffic violations, you may be deemed a “high-risk driver” by insurance companies. If you are having a hard time finding an insurance carrier because of this status, you do have options.

Colorado participates in the Western Association of Automobile Insurance Plans (WAAIP), which helps high-risk drivers find car insurance.

Under the Colorado Motor Vehicle Insurance Plan, high-risk drivers are insured by a specific company found through WAAIP, but the risk is shared among all insurance companies operating in CO.

To seek coverage through WAAIP, ask an insurance agent to help you apply.

Policies obtained through the WAAIP tend to have much higher rates, so it’s a good idea to shop around for car insurance quotes from multiple companies through the standard market before choosing this route.
Insurance Fraud

Insurance fraud can be committed by anyone and can take many forms, including:
False claims.
Forged proof of insurance or other documents.
Business performed by unlicensed insurance agents or brokers.

If you suspect an individual or business of auto insurance fraud, you can file a complaint with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), which will submit your report to your state agency through an online fraud reporting system.

Car insurance fraud costs insurance companies money and can lead to higher rates for all consumers, so it is important to report suspected fraud.
Insurance Questions

If you have a question about a car insurance policy, claim, or provider, you can contact the Colorado Division of Insurance:
By phone at 303-894-7490.
By e-mail to insurance@dora.state.co.us.
By completing the Online Request for Assistance.

The Division of Insurance can answer your questions about car insurance policies, consumer rights, and car insurance agents.
Determining Your Car Insurance Rate

Colorado auto insurance rates are based on several factors, including your credit report.

Car insurance companies can also use your:
Driving history (up to 5 years).
Age & gender.
Marital status.
Neighborhood or city’s safety.
Car make and model.

Points on your driver’s license for traffic violations, including DUI and DWI violations,can raise your insurance rates.
Discounts on Colorado Car Insurance

Many CO car insurance companies offer discounts to drivers to help you save money on your rates.

Savings and availability may vary by agent and can include rate discounts for:
Driver education or training.
Good or safe driver history.
Good student record.
Vehicle safety.
Multiple policies.

Since most Colorado auto insurance companies offer discounts for safe driving and driver education, the best way to get the cheapest car insurance rate is to follow the rules of the road and maintain at least the minimum required coverage at all times.