Why Getting Cheap Car Insurance is Easier Than You Think
By Matthew Sobchak
If you are paying a significant portion of your income on car insurance every month, then join the club. Most drivers in the US cite their premiums as in the top 10 of their expenses, alongside health insurance and their mortgages.
But it does not have to be this way. There are several basic steps that might seem expensive or time-consuming in the short-term, but in the long run will save you hundreds of dollars a year.
The Group Discount Effect
Like so many different offers you see today, car insurance companies are also in the business of other types of insurance. If you rent, consider renter's insurance. If you own a motorcycle as well as a vehicle, then consider putting them both under the same provider if you have not already.
Teenagers are High-Risk
The sad truth is that teenagers make up a tragically high proportion of the number of car accidents every year. Because of this, a person under 20 usually has a much higher rate for insurance. If you have a teenager in your home, there are several factors that can lower this cost:
- Grades - an honor roll student or one with a report card with a lot of As and Bs is usually given a better deal on insurance. This varies with the provider, but many have this incentive. This is an extra reward for having a bright child - and you can always offer to pay them the difference (or a portion) if their grades get you a discount.
- Driver's Ed - some states do not require young drivers to take a safety course, so long as they pass the driver's test. But insurance is likely to go down if a teenager has taken a driving class that teaches them the basics of road safety.
Driver's Ed extends to adults as well. If you have a bad history of accidents or speeding tickets, your insurance has undoubtedly risen. But taking a class that teaches responsible driving can lower the cost. Although this might appear time-consuming the benefits win over the cost.
Add-Ons
There are many safety device features that can lower your car's premiums. A car alarm and the Club, which locks your steering wheel into place, could be things that save you money even if they are expensive.
Credit Score
Your credit score affects so much of what you do, and that extends to car insurance. Although not every provider checks your credit score, if you find that yours does you should make sure it's in good standing. Otherwise it might be cheaper and easier to switch providers than boost your score.
Are you ready to find the cheapest car insurance online? The fastest way is by clicking here and filling out some basic information about you and your car. After that you'll be presented with a list of providers and quotes. |