Where else but Kansas can you see an eight-story high giant replica of one of Van Gogh's paintings, get a glimpse of the world's largest ball of sisal twine, and witness the World's Largest Collection of the World's Smallest Versions of the World's Largest Things? The answer: nowhere. There aren't a lot of places where you can pay so little for car insurance either. According to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.), Kansans paid $568 for auto insurance in 2007 making it the sixth least expensive state for insurance. For some, however, this number could be a little higher than expected. Depending on things like where you live, what coverage you need, and what your driving record looks like, Kansas auto insurance rates can vary greatly. Here are some common obstacles to consider before you seek out an insurance plan.

Evading the Storm
If you've gone a year without hearing the words "tornado warning," you're not in Kansas anymore. As a matter of fact, the EF5 twister that destroyed Greensburg in 2007 probably still resonates in the minds of most Kansans. According to the Kansas Farm Bureau, The Sunflower State ranks third in the nation in the number of tornadoes. The idea of losing your personal possessions is a daunting one. It could require hundreds of thousands of dollars to rebuild your life after a tornado barrels into your town if you don't have the right coverage on your Kansas auto insurance policy. Comprehensive coverage reimburses policyholders if their vehicle is damaged, destroyed or lost in the event of a twister. In 2007, Kansas auto insurance rates averaged around $192 for comprehensive coverage, according to the I.I.I., which seems like a small price to pay for peace of mind.

Bumps in the Road
Kansas auto insurance rates are a little more expensive if you purchase additional coverage, however hazardous weather and temperature highs and lows can do significant damage to roads causing cracks and potholes on the surfaces. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, 72 percent of insured drivers have collision coverage and 76 percent purchased comprehensive coverage along with their liability insurance. If you fall into this majority of drivers, your collision insurance will cover the cost of repairing your vehicle if it is damaged by potholes or other vehicles, or if it is flipped over.

Inspect Your Needs
To ensure you're getting the best coverage and the most affordable Kansas auto insurance rates you must first assess the value of your car. You are required by law to purchase liability, personal injury protection, and uninsured and underinsured motorist insurance coverages. To determine whether or not you need more protection, assess your car's market value. You can find this out by visiting Kelley Blue Book at www.kbb.com or by asking a local car dealer if he can verify its worth. Minimum coverage might be all you need if your car is worth less than $1,000. New car owners are more than likely instructed by their car loan institution to purchase full-coverage auto insurance, but they don't have to break the bank for complete protection. You can score big discounts by combining your homeowners and auto insurance policies, or by taking a driver's safety course. The best way to accomplish savings is to shop around. Check out LocalInsurance.com and gather bundles of quotes from competing companies to get top-notch coverage and affordable Kansas auto insurance rates.

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