How To Save Money on Auto Insurance

1. Choose the right car. If you’re in the market for a new automobile, consider how the car you choose will affect your insurance rate before you sign for it. Fancier, more expensive, souped-up gas guzzlers, such as large SUVs or high-performance vehicles, come with jacked-up insurance costs. Consider this: The difference between the cheapest and most expensive premium can be $2,200 annually.

2. Improve your credit score. Everyone knows high credit scores reel in lower interest rates on all fronts. But did you know that your good credit can also ensure lower insurance premiums? Check your credit report for free at AnnualCreditReport.com. If you spot any errors, correct them promptly. If your score is lacking, start boosting it now. Showing insurance companies your history of personal accountability will save you significant money on premiums.
3. Raise your deductibles. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you have to understand the long-term effects before making the move. If you raise your deductible from $500 to $1,000 for certain coverages, you need to be sure you’ll have this extra $500 on hand in case there’s an accident or you need to file a claim. If not, your savings could be depleted. And do take into account your own safety record. If you’re an accident-prone driver, you may not want to go this route.
4. Drop certain coverages. If your car is paid off, you’re no longer required to maintain full coverage. If it’s an older car with less value, you could save by dropping certain protections. Comprehensive and collision coverage are two prime suspects. The first is when your car is damaged by outside forces, such as theft or, say, a fallen tree limb; the latter is to cover your car in the event it hits something, like a light pole.
5. Shop your policy. All auto insurance companies are not alike, so investigate at least three before making your final choice. To streamline the process, shop online or consider enlisting the help of an independent agent. These are people who do not benefit whatsoever by selling a policy through any particular company. Additionally, take a defensive-driving course, ask about good-driver discounts, and use mass transit occasionally so you rack up fewer miles on your vehicle. What you’re seeking is a company that responds to that proactivity in dollars and cents.

Final thoughts. When it comes to saving on auto insurance, it’s all about knowledge and research. If you’re willing to invest in both to determine the many ways to trim, you’ll be better off in the end.