Here are the things you should know before you buy auto insurance:

• Decide whether you want to buy from a local agent or direct online or over the phone.
• Whether you need full coverage or liability.
• How is the service of the agent and company after the sale?
• How long has the agent or company been in business and are they planning on staying around a while or will they be sold out or merged with another company?
• How stable have the rates been?
• What fees are included in the price of the insurance?
• What discounts are allowed by the company and am I getting those discounts?

Whether you are a young driver of your first car or a seasoned operator of a high value vehicle, buying insurance can be a tedious task, not to mention confusing. Oregon State law says that all cars must have insurance while parked or traveling on Oregon streets, roads, highways and freeways. What's even more important to know is that your car has to be insured, running or not if it is propely registered with the Oregon DMV. Yes, even if your car is broken down and in the shop, it has to have insurance on it by you the owner. That seems unfair if you aren't driving it. Here are some 'what ifs' to consider: