Last Updated: 22 December, 2008 | No Comments
Auto insurance in not free. With some companies, the rates even seem to perpetually rise, even if you don’t have any accidents or points against you. The problem could be as simple as a lack of communication between you and the insurance company, and you can have lower rates as easily as making a phone call. Other discounts are available through taking courses, or even working in certain professional fields or public service jobs. Still more discounts are available based on the actual risk history of the type of car you drive, or after-purchase add-ons that result in the vehicle being safer than it is listed as being.
Five Easy Ways to Reduce Your Auto Insurance Costs:
Deductibles
The best place to start looking for cheaper insurance rates is to take a look at your policy deductibles. If your deductibles are set too low, the insurance company is liable for damages that would otherwise be considered minor, and you’ll have to pay higher premiums, but the out-of-pocket cost of an accident will be negligible. Inversely, if the deductibles are set too high, a large amount of out-of-pocket expense is incurred, but the premiums you pay will be much lower. This is an easy way to adjust the affordability of your policy, but be certain that you can afford the deductible, because the entire policy is defaulted if you fail to keep your side of the bargain.
Car Comparisons
Many manufacturers make cars that are very similar. But they are rated vastly differently when it comes to auto insurance costs. Compare your favorite models from different companies, and use those findings to help you choose a vehicle which is more affordable. Most dealerships will provide the cost of insurance as one factor in the annual cost of ownership or cost per mile statistics of the vehicle.
Be A Safe Driver
Maintain a safe driving record, and sign up for a voluntary driver safety course. Both methods can help you safe on car insurance, but the benefits also mean you’ll be a safer person on the roads, which is a worthy investment for everyone who rides with you.
Become A Loyal Policyholder
If you have multiple insurance policies, consider checking into a multi-line insurance discount. Many insurance companies offer a discount of this type to people who display loyalty by purchasing multiple insurance policies. You can also build company loyalty by keeping the same company for multiple renewals of the policy. Loyalty, in most cases, is recognized by special discounts.
Install Safety And Anti-theft Devices
A Lo-jack or car alarm are both excellent ways to reduce your auto-insurance. Likewise, be sure your insurance company is aware of any factory installed safety equipment. This type of equipment is often a determining factor in the base cost of a policy, and is the rate which later discounts are applied to.