In light of the recent recession that has graced our economy, even greater pressure has been placed on workers and families to try and save money. More so than regularly, uncertain times like these call for the ability to cut costs and save a lot of money in the long run a necessary one. Saving money on auto insurance is actually quite easy and only requires a little “insider know-how” before you’re saving hundreds on auto insurance annually.
Below are ten fool-proof ways of saving thousands of dollars over an extended period of time:
- Shop Around – When buying a new vehicle from a showroom you never walk in and buy the first one you see – why should buying insurance be any different? Using established websites such as QuoteMyAuto.com, you are able to instantly compare dozens of insurances quotes locally. Quotes may vary by up to $500.
- Use One Insurance Company – Along with your life, health, and home insurance, creating a multi-line account with one insurance company can save you big money in the long run. Be careful, though, since a competing quote may still be much cheaper than purchasing a multi-line account.
- Be a Defensive Driver – The best way to avoid accidents, traffic tickets & citations is to be a safe, responsible driver. Being aware of your surroundings and driving only a few miles over the speed limit is a safe way to ensure lower auto insurance costs.
- Buy Smart – One way to save cash on auto insurance is by purchasing vehicles with low theft rates. In addition to this, buying safe, low-profile vehicles is also another way of having the insurance company slash your rates.
- Maintain Good Credit – Pay your bills on time! More and more insurance companies are starting to look at your credit score while evaluating your quote. A bad credit score may total up to a 50% increase in your auto insurance premium.
- Raise Deductibles – By agreeing to a higher deductible while signing up with your insurance company, you can save 40% on your policy when switching to a $1,000 deductible rather than a $250 one. This is a smart way of lowering your auto insurance since you can set aside a portion of your savings towards a deductible if a claim should occur.
- Avoid Coverage Duplication – Granted you have a good healthcare plan, not utilizing the medical care coverage offer by auto insurance plans is a swift way of reducing the overall cost. Proper healthcare insurance should cover your medical costs in the event of an accident.
- Driving Courses – An efficient way to save money on auto insurance is, simply enough, becoming a better driver. Contact your local driving schools for information on where to take these courses, or register for an online driver's training course. Many insurance companies will drop the premium cost upon proof of your dedication to safe driving.
- Drop Collision/Comprehensive Coverage – If driving an older vehicle, simply not signing up for the collision and comprehensive coverage may save you money on your auto insurance premium granted that the insurance is more than the car is actually worth.
- Discounts Discounts Discounts – All insurance carriers offer discounts, ranging from safety-features found on your vehicle to special rates for senior citizens or students with good grades. Some companies even offer discounts to policyholders that are members of certain groups. Always talk with an agent and decide which discounts apply to you.
Since each individual way of lowering your auto insurance premium is fairly straightforward, achieving the best insurance quote is easily found when one utilizes all of the advice found above. While you may not qualify to partake in each of the ten money-saving tips, each and every one is essential in saving the most amount of money. |