What Things Determine the Cost of Auto Insurance ?

 What Things Determine the Cost of Auto Insurance ?

Shop Around for the Best Rates

Do your homework and shop around with several different insurance companies to get the best rates. Try to get at least three different price quotes. Contact the companies by phone or search for quotes over the Internet. Once you receive your quotes, compare rates. Some companies sell policies through their own agents, some companies sell policies through independent agents who represent many different insurance companies, and some sell directly to consumers over the phone or online. All of this can affect the rate you receive.

Pay Attention to Customer Service

Don't get distracted by focusing just on the rates. Make sure to consider the customer service you receive as well. Your insurance company should answer any questions you have and process claims efficiently. Check with your family, friends and co-workers for referrals to companies they recommend. Contact your state insurance department to find out how to get a copy of the consumer complaint ratios for different companies. You can even check out the financial stability of different companies through consumer magazines before making your final decision. Be thorough in your investigation before choosing an insurance company. Remember, you will need to be able to depend on the company you choose a great deal if you ever have an accident. Choose a company or agent that is knowledgeable and eager to answer any of your questions.

Choose a New Car That Insures for Less

 

When you consider buying a new car, make your purchase based on vehicles with the most affordable insurance rates. Premiums can be tied to a car's sticker price, the cost to repair certain models, safety ratings, and the likelihood of theft. Some insurance companies will provide you with additional discounts for anti-theft features, as well as cars with dual air bags or anti-lock brakes and other safety features. A car that is considered very attractive to thieves will cost much more to insure.

Buy your homeowners insurance and auto insurance from the same company to receive a discount. Some companies offer reduced premiums for long-term customers. Make sure to shop around. You may receive a lower price from another company despite a multi-policy discount.

Low Mileage Discounts

Ask your insurance company about the possibility of receiving a discount for low mileage. Some companies provide reduced rates to drivers who drive fewer miles each year. Find out what the mileage limit is for each company that you consider. There may also be discounts available for drivers who carpool to work. There's an added saving bonus to the carpool option as you can save on gas money at the same time.

Group Insurance Rates

 

Ask about discounts through group insurance. Reduced rates are often available to customers who get their insurance through a group plan from their employer, professional affiliation, alumni groups and other associations. Ask your employer or any groups you belong to for details.

Your Credit Affects Your Premium

 

Keep a good credit rating. Your credit can affect what you pay for your auto insurance. Credit history is now being used to make rates among individual drivers more accurate and fair. This type of insurance scoring is not used in every state.

Safe Driver Discount

Ask about safe driver discounts. These reductions are offered to drivers with no accidents or moving violations for a certain number of years. You may also qualify for a reduced rate if you take a defensive driving course.

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