Having auto insurance is the law. But what if your budget is a little too tight for your usual coverage? Or what if you’re looking to switch brands for a better deal? Here are just five ways to find a nicer and more affordable policy.
1. Compare and Contrast
Many people stick, “car insurance” into a search engine and pick from among the first results they see. This is, of course, a terrible way of making a decision. You need to be willing to put time and effort into your search for the perfect policy, and if that means going to page six of Google, so be it.
2. Ask About Deals Directly
In a study from the Pennsylvania Insurance Department, less than 30 percent of auto insurers willingly offered information on deals and discounts that could save their customers money. The customers had to bring up the subject themselves. Don’t be afraid to look your insurer right in the eye and say, “That’s too expensive for me. Is there anything you can do?”
3. Know Your Insurance Types
In most states, only liability coverage is required by law. Things like, “uninsured motorist insurance” are optional add-ons that insurance companies try to sneak into their service packages. If you already have auto insurance, pull out your policy and examine the details. Are you paying for extra or comprehensive coverage when just the basics would do?
4. Upgrade Your Car’s Safety Features
Auto insurance quotes tend to go down when the quality of your vehicular security goes up. Things like car alarms and wheel-locking mechanisms will tell the insurance company that you take safety seriously, and as a result, your car is less likely to get stolen and cost them. It’s a win-win for both of you.
5. Become A Better Driver
When’s the last time you took a driver’s ed course? Because they’ve been known to knock a few dollars off monthly premiums. In the same vein as the above, insurance companies are willing to reward you for being a safe, conscientious driver, so think about going back to school to save yourself hundreds per year.
If you’re serious about reducing your monthly expenses, these five tips will help you lower your auto insurance costs into something manageable. You may not have a choice about obtaining coverage, but you can decide who will protect you and for how much.
This post was contributed by Mike Jordache