Car insurance is one of those extra costs that make you wonder if car ownership is worthwhile. It is, of course, since it’s not just the law in many places—it would even take care of larger costs in repairs and maintenance is the worst happens. Even so, and in case you could use a few extra bucks a month (and who couldn’t?), here are several strategies for paying less on your car insurance.
Be a Smart Shopper
Keep in mind the fact that you’re not committed to one insurer, and that the marketplace offers opportunities to find one who can provide the best deal for you. Ask friends and family members about which agency they use and how much they pay for car insurance, and if they would recommend their agent or agency. Look at several companies and either check their rates online, or email or call them for a quote. This is also a good way to get a feel for how they treat their customers and how rapidly they respond to inquiries. You can knock a few hundred bucks off your current insurance costs this way.
Careful Driving
It may seem obvious, but the best way you can reduce your car insurance rates is by being a safe and conscientious driver. The longer you drive without a moving violation or accident, the less risky you look to an insurer. If you do receive a moving violation and can contest it, do so to have it removed from your record. Even the slightest mark looks bad to insurers. Consider taking a defensive driving course. It shows you’re serious about driving, can get you a discount, and can even teach you how to better handle road hazards to avoid accidents.
Buy a Less Costly Car
It’s fun to turn heads when you drive your high-performance sports car or luxury vehicle down the street, but you’re paying for status through your insurance. Consider scaling back and driving a vehicle that may not be a showstopper, but which looks good, drives great, and gets you where you want to go. Consider buying used as well. You can ditch collision and comprehensive insurance since you’re less likely to spend as much on repairs and restoration for an older car. Overall, whether you buy new or used, check current insurance rates for the make and model you’re interested in and consider switching to another to save more.
Ask About Discounts
Want more strategies for paying less on your car insurance? When working out the details, ask your agent if you or other drivers qualify for discounts. Have more than one car to ensure? You may qualify for a multi-car discount. Is your new teen driver getting all As? Good students qualify for discounts, too, because they’re perceived as being more responsible. Discounts are also available for having good credit, low mileage, no accidents, and more. It’s all a matter of showing you can be trusted to drive carefully.
