Ten Ways to Lower Your Car Insurance

January 26, 2012

Seems like everything is costing more these days: gas, food, and utilities. While many of us are trying to save a couple bucks by carpooling or walking to nearby locations, there is one way people could be saving but often overlook: by saving on your car insurance.

1) Compare Rates Every 6 Months – If you check your car insurance rates in January, make sure your check them again in June. Tickets or no tickets, you're a different driver than you were last summer. Get updated quotes and see what your individual savings could be.

2) Raising Your Deductible Can Save You Money – Simply put, the higher your deductible, the lower your premium. Indeed the cost of an accident will be that much more expensive; however, if the damage is minor, you'll be spending the same out-of-pocket amount regardless.

3) Don't Pay in Monthly Installments – Additional administrative fees are commonly applied to payments when you split your premium in to installments. A monthly fee of even $7 can add up to $84 over 12 months.

4) Insure Your Home and Car With the Same Company – One of the most under utilized car insurance discounts is the multi-line insurance policy: buying your auto insurance and your homeowners insurance from the same insurance company. According to the Insurance Information Institute, a multi-line policy can save you up to 15% on both premiums.

5) Pay Less for Driving Less – Many insurance companies will offer discounts on vehicles that incur low annual mileage. In fact, some companies have a predetermined number of what they consider low mileage. Has your commute changed? If so, it might save you money to get an updated quote.

6) Good Driving Equals Lower Rates – Most car insurance companies reward good driving with lower premiums. In fact, in some states a good driving discount is required by law. If you haven't had any aaccidents or tickets in the last three to five years, compare car insurance quotes to find savings.

7) Don't Pay More Than You Have to for a Ticket – Unfortunately moving violations are an accurate reflection of your liability to a car insurance company, and your rates will be affected accordingly. Even if you have a ticket on your driving record, you might find a reasonable rate with another company.

8) Safe Cars Mean Car Insurance Savings – Many companies offer discounts for various safety features on your vehicle, including air bags, alarms, factory-installed mechanical seatbelts and antilock brakes. In getting updated insurance quotes, be sure to indicate such safety.

9) Eliminate Unnecessary Coverage – You may be paying for coverage that you don't need. For example, you may be a member of an auto club that provides towing services, yet you're also paying for towing on your auto insurance policy. Look for opportunities to eliminate unnecessary coverage.

10) Good Grades and Your Golden Years Can be Insurance Savings – Students currently enrolled in school often receive a discount on auto insurance for good grades, as many companies feel conscientious students make conscientious drivers. Similarly, insurance companies are known to value the wisdom of an experienced driver, offering discounts to drivers over 50 as a result.

Provided by InsWeb.com
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