Need help finding affordable auto insurance? Read this guide to learn how to compare quotes for a the best car insurance deal within minutes.
Shopping for auto insurance can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the process or trying to stretch your budget. This guide will help you compare car insurance quotes and find the best coverage at an affordable price.
Compare Rates from Multiple Insurance Companies
Shopping around for car insurance is the best way to get the most bang for your buck. It may take a few extra minutes, but comparing quotes from different providers can save you hundreds of dollars. Make sure to get quotes from multiple companies and compare them side-by-side to make sure you are getting the most coverage for your money.
One thing to keep in mind when shopping for auto insurance is to not be too quick to settle for the first quote you get. With technology nowadays, it’s easier than ever to apply for multiple quotes online. Take your time and explore different providers, compare their rates and coverage options, and make an educated decision on which one best suits your needs. When it comes to car insurance, a few extra minutes of research can go a long way toward saving you loads of money in the long run.
Check for Discounts and Other Savings Opportunities
Many auto insurance companies offer special discounts that can help you save money on your policy. Some of the most common discounts relate to safety features like anti-theft devices, airbags, and anti-lock brakes, as well as affiliations like being a college student or belonging to a AAA motor club. Ask your insurance provider if you are eligible for any of these discounts to lower your premium even further.
Remember to also check for other savings opportunities offered by your insurance provider. Some companies offer discounts if you pay your policy in full or set up electronic payments, while others may give you a discount if you do not have an at-fault accident or DUI on record. Also, look into multi-policy discounts where you can receive a reduced rate if you bundle your auto insurance with your home or renters policy.
Additionally, ask your insurance provider if they offer discounts for taking a defensive driver’s course or having additional safety features on your car — such as airbags, anti-lock brakes or other preventive measures. These discounts can range from 5 percent to 10 percent of the premium cost and may be a great way to get the most value out of your policy.
Be Mindful of Your Credit Score
Auto insurance companies consider your credit score when calculating your premium. A good credit rating means that you’re probably a responsible driver, so you may qualify for discounts from some insurers. Check your credit score before shopping for auto insurance to make sure it’s accurate. Having a better credit score can save you money on auto insurance in the long run.
Some states, such as California and Massachusetts, don’t allow insurers to use credit scores when calculating premiums. If you live in one of those countries, you can still improve your credit score before shopping for auto insurance. Paying bills on time and reducing outstanding debt are two ways to increase your credit score. Improving your credit score may not guarantee that you’ll receive the best rate for car insurance, but it will mean that you’re more likely to qualify for discounts from certain insurers.
You should also research auto insurance quotes from different companies before you commit to a policy. Some insurers offer discounts or other considerations for having a good credit score. Knowing this information ahead of time will allow you to narrow down your search to companies offering the best rates and terms for your situation and credit rating. One thing to note however is that the cheapest policy may not always be the best option; you may need to consider a higher-priced policy if it offers better coverage or more protection in the event of an accident.
Consider Increasing Your Deductible
A deductible is the amount of money you agree to pay out of pocket before your insurance company begins to cover any costs. Generally, the higher your deductible, the lower your monthly premium will be. Raising your deductible from $250 to $1,000 could save you up to 25% or more on your insurance policy.
Increasing your deductible may be a good way to save money on auto insurance, but it’s important to consider if it’s the right choice for you. Make sure you have enough in savings that you won’t be caught off guard if you end up needing to make a claim. It’s also important to compare quotes from multiple insurance companies so that you can find the policy that best suits your needs.
A higher deductible typically means lower monthly premiums, but it’s essential to understand if you can afford the costs associated with making a claim. If your car is totalled in an accident and you make a claim, you will be required to pay the insurance company your chosen deductible upfront before they will start work on repairs or payment of replacement expenses. If you choose a higher deductible, that number could be significant, so make sure that you have enough savings in case of an emergency. It’s also important to comparison shop and get quotes from multiple insurance companies so that you are getting the best rates for the coverage you need.
Look for Low-Mileage Discounts
If you don’t drive very often — like if you carpool or use public transit for your daily commute — you could qualify for low-mileage discounts. The average driver puts about 12,000 miles on their vehicle each year, but if your yearly mileage is significantly lower than that, you may qualify for a discount. So be sure to let your insurance agent know how many miles you’ve driven in the last year so you can get the best possible rate.
Many companies offer low-mileage discounts to drivers who drive less than an average number of miles per year, so it’s worth the effort to look into these discounts for your auto insurance. Discounts for low mileage customers vary from company to company and may be based on specific mileage ceilings such as 7,500 miles or 10,000 miles annually. If you are able to provide documentation that you are eligible for a low-mileage discount (like a log of how many miles you’ve driven in the last year), many companies will reduce your premium accordingly. Just make sure to shop around and compare car insurance quotes so that you get the best rate possible.