I was 19 when I was pulled over for speeding on the rural roads of Wisconsin, with Walk the Moon playing “Shut Up and Dance.” It was that day I received my first speeding citation. The fine was $250, the same as what I had to pay to hire an attorney to fight the ticket. My car insurance rates went up almost $100 per month for two years. I’ve learned my lesson. Quickly.
The cost of cars is increasing, and the monthly insurance bill seems to be getting more complex. Here are a few ways you can save on your car insurance.
How many miles do you drive
Do you work from home, or do you have a job that requires you to drive less? According to the Federal Highway Administration, the average American drives around 13,000 miles a year. Car insurance companies offer discounts for those who go less. Call your agent and let him know about your driving habits. You will be rewarded.
Bundle your policies
Bundling is often forgotten despite the constant commercials that insist it saves you money. Consider combining policies if you have more than one policy or are underinsured. Bundling discounts are available for renters and homeowners insurance policies. Renter’s insurance can save you more than its cost.
How to improve your credit score
In most states, bad scores and debts can have a significant impact on your insurance rates. However, car insurance companies do not weigh credit in the same way that banks and lenders do. For insurance purposes, outstanding debts and payment histories are given the most weight. Consumer Reports discovered that a poor “insurance” score can cause your insurance premium to increase from $500 up to $2000 per year, depending on where you live.
Shop for rates through an agency
You may not have realized that there are other, sometimes better and cheaper options available if the same insurance company insures you as your parents. Most of us don’t bother to shop for insurance because it is so difficult. We renew our policy when we receive the renewal notice.
The search for the lowest rates is made easy by agencies like Auto Insurance Specialists or Jerry, which use AI to find rates. They will find the best rate for you, and at each renewal, they’ll shop around to make sure you are paying the lowest possible price.
Get discounts for good grades and driving
Even small violations, such as driving a few extra miles, running through the yellow light, or forgetting to turn on your signal, can have a significant impact on your insurance rates. Moving violations can have a substantial effect on your insurance rates for up to two years following the citation.
According to a data-component=” link,” data-ordinal=”1,” data source=”inlineLink,” and data type=”externalLink,” you have to drive at least 100 miles instead of 70 mph. AAA states that “you have to drive 100 miles at 75mph instead of 70mph to save 5 minutes.” You also risk fines and higher premiums if you stop suddenly. You can save a lot of money by slowing down and obeying the road rules.
Consider reducing your coverage or increasing your deductible
Many people, when money is tight, reduce their coverage or increase their deductible without realizing what they are giving up. Cutting range or increasing your deductible may be a way to save money, but it might not be the best option for you.
It might make sense to switch to liability-only insurance if you own an old car with full coverage, but not if you cannot afford to replace it – for example, if you are driving a vehicle that is worth less than you think. It’s a good idea to increase your deductible if you have an ample savings account. However, if you live paycheck to paycheck and don’t have much money in the bank, you may find yourself in trouble when it comes time to pay.
Consider taking a defensive driving class
Insurance companies in some states offer discounts to drivers who take defensive driver courses. These discounts may be available to only senior or teenage drivers. However, it is still beneficial to everyone. Avoiding collisions and fines by driving carefully can help you save money.
Park in a garage and get a safer car
Parking in a garage will make your vehicle less vulnerable to theft, damage, and other problems. However, depending on the insurance company you choose, this can also result in discounts on your premiums. Consider safety features like automatic braking, rear cameras, or blind-spot monitors when purchasing a new car (or one that is new to you ).
There are ways to save on car insurance. Driving better will save you the most money. You’ll save money if you slow down and follow the rules of the road.
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