The topic of Oregon auto insurance rates may not be as exciting as the Civil War between the Ducks and Beavers, but if you don't touch down on this subject you could be intercepted with higher premiums than expected. However, failing to purchase needed coverage could leave you injured on the sidelines and strip you of your financial savings. Finding quality coverage and affordable Oregon auto insurance rates is just a click away. LocalInsurance takes your needs and wants into account when gathering insurance quotes. The coverage you purchase could change the entire game.

Duck Away From Disaster
Collision and comprehensive coverages on your Oregon auto insurance policy provide a sense of relief knowing you'll be reimbursed if you're vehicle is stolen or you are involved in an accident. What you may not realize is these coverages pay out if it is damaged or lost because of a natural hazard. A high-impact earthquake or volcanic eruption is always a looming prospect in The Beaver State. Jan. 26, 2010 was the 310th anniversary of the Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake, a magnitude 9.0 event that damaged the coastline from Northern California to Southern British Columbia, according to the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI). Research shows that a mega-quake such as this occurs every 300 to 600 years, putting Oregon within the window of a major earthquake, according to James Roddey, DOGAMI earth sciences information officer. Although this earthquake is an example of immense proportion, the fact is the Pacific Wonderland is susceptible to a natural hazard and quality Oregon auto insurance is just one aspect to include in your emergency plans.

People Movers
Using public transportation to drive to and from work will afford you discounts on your Oregon auto insurance rates and save you money on gas and car repairs. Insurance companies take into account the annual mileage on your vehicle and where you drive to determine your premium. Riding the WES, MAX or bus saves you from adding mileage on your car, keeps you clear of congested traffic, and lessens the risk of an auto accident. However, this is not an option for some Oregonians seeing as 43 percent of you live in rural areas where public transportation is inaccessible. Residents of smaller communities can earn some discounts by carpooling or driving a vehicle that is equipped with safety features such as anti-lock brakes, automatic seatbelts, and front and side airbags.

Cascading Rates
Oregonians were paying an average of $723 for auto insurance in 2007, just below the U.S. average of $795, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Residents of The Sunset State whose rates exceed this average probably haven't shopped around for lower Oregon auto insurance rates. State law requires you to purchase liability, personal injury protection and uninsured motorist coverages, and coverages beyond these are either required by your car loan institution or are insurances you feel are necessary. But more coverage doesn't necessarily mean costly premiums. Use a free service like LocalInsurance to shop for the best possible rates. LocalInsurance representatives will use information like your age, sex, driving record and place of residence to create your profile. You'll then be matched with competing companies to determine how much your coverage will ultimately cost if you choose to insure with them.

To find more information on the auto insurance requirements in Oregon, visit these useful links: