Paying for auto insurance is about as exciting as stubbing your big toe.
But most states require it, so it’s a necessary evil.
Since you know you have to have it, you might as well find the cheapest rate, right?
Here’s 6 tips to help lower your auto insurance premiums.
Tip 1: Ask for a discount from the auto insurance company.
Some insurers offer discounts for policyholders with low mileage and for households that purchase homeowner’s insurance and car insurance from the same carrier. Policies that cover teen drivers may charge less if the teenagers have completed driver education. Note that some carriers that offer many discounts or generous discounts charge higher-than-average rates.
Tip 2: Shop around for lower quotes.
Several weeks before your existing policy is set to expire, comparison shop among several carriers. When asking for quotes, be sure to make an apples-to-apples comparison on the type of coverage provided. You can also use online sites to shop around and find cheap rates. One example is Cheapcarinsurance.net.
Tip 3: Consider a higher deductible policy.
Depending on the amount of the increase, you could ultimately save between 15% and 40% on collision and comprehensive coverage. Keep in mind that a higher deductible will mean that you will bear a higher portion of the cost if you have an accident or if your vehicle is stolen or vandalized.
Tip 4: Investigate dropping coverage.
For older cars with low market value, consider dropping collision or comprehensive coverage. These types of coverage may no longer be worthwhile because the amount of a claim probably would not exceed the combined value of the premium and the deductible. To determine the value of your car, visit www.edmunds.com.
Tip 5: Pay your entire auto insurance premium up front.
Many carriers charge extra when drivers pay in installments. If you can swing, you can save a pretty penny by paying it all up front. Ask your insurance agent how much you can save by doing this.
Tip 6: Consider insurance costs of any new or used vehicle you may purchase.
The year, make, and model of a vehicle impact insurance rates. Insuring new, expensive, and sporty cars tends to cost more than insuring older and more economical vehicles. In addition, you may pay more to insure a car that has a higher theft rate or that has a record of higher-than-average insurance payouts in accidents. To learn how a particular vehicle compares with others, visit the Web site of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety at www.iihs.org.
Although price is important, in the end, remember that the objective of auto insurance is having the coverage you need in the event of accident, theft, or damage.
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There are millions of cars and trucks out there on the road, and the vast majority have one thing in common. What they have in common is insurance. Almost every vehicle is insured. It’s mandated by law. So when you need insurance, use these tips to get the best deal.