The Right Car Insurance
Insurance for autos is costly and these tips aim to ensure you get a good deal.
Do An Annual Rate Check
If you have been with the same insurer for a number of years, you may have a hard time to find better rates, particularly if you have not made any claims. The Consumer Reports National Research Center conducted a survey in 2014 found that only 10% of the 19,000 consumers they surveyed who compared premiums found that they could save money when they switch their insurers.
It is easier than ever to compare rates from multiple insurers online using various website. It is important to note that you will generally not get a quote immediately and you will get emails from agents who are looking for business. It is recommended that you form a relationship with an independent insurance agent who will be able to check the different rates for you. This will help ensure you find a better deal on your insurance
Always Pick A Top-Rated Insurer
Many people make the mistake of thinking that saving money on insurance is a matter of finding the lowest premium. It is important to note that there are some insurers who offer lower premiums, but will end up costing you more in the end by lowering loss estimates and having their repair shops cut corners. You may also be forced to pay for replacement parts with these insurers. There are also some low premium insurers who increase the premiums after an accident.
This is why you should look for a top-rated insurer who has high satisfaction ratings. You should look for ratings on claims as well as the overall insurance experience.
Set The Right Deductibles
There are many people who have a higher deductible rate to lower their premiums, but this will increase the amount you have to pay out of pocket if you make a claim. When you increase the deductible by $300 from $200 to $500, you will be able to cut your premium by 15 to 30 percent. If you increase the deductible to $1,000, you will be able to save up to 40% on the premium.
This is something that you can consider if you have a good driving record and have never been at fault in an accident. If you have been at fault for an accident, this might not be the best option. Of course, if you choose to do this, you need to ensure that you can afford to pay the deductible if you are in an accident.
Review Your Overall Coverage
Liability cover will pay for property damage and bodily damage which is caused in an accident that is your fault. You should not get caught out by lowering your liability limits to the state minimums. While buying more cover may seem like a strange way of saving money, there is the benefit that in a costly claim, you will not have to pay as much out of pocket.
If you have more than 1 car which you can use when one vehicle is being repaired, you will not need to have rental-reimbursement coverage. You should also think about getting rid of roadside assistance if you are a member of an auto-club because the club will be a better deal. You should think carefully about the personal injury protection because you might not need this if you have good health coverage. If you do not have health insurance or your usual passengers are not insured, you should keep the coverage.
Take Advantage Of Discounts
There are car insurers who will offer discounts and you should take advantage of these discounts. Most of these discounts will be based on low-risk lifestyles and you need to consider them. You might be eligible for these discounts if you are a student with good grades, an older driver who has taken a refresher course or a member of an affinity group.