6 Simple Ways to Get A Cheap Auto Insurance Quote
Nobody wants to pay more for their auto insurance coverage than they need to. Auto insurance is a basic cost of driving. If you are like most people, your state requires that you purchase liability insurance. Your auto loan company may also require you to purchase additional coverage for collision. Enter your ZIP into our FREE quote generator on our homepage and start saving today!
These coverages are required, but some drivers opt for greater protection from a comprehensive policy. The more coverage you have in place, generally the greater financial protection the policy can provide to you. However, additional coverage will result in a higher premium. There are, however, a few steps you can take to get free auto insurance quotes today.
1. Do Some Comparison Shopping
Auto insurance rates will vary from driver to driver. Rates are determined by such factors as:
- your driving history
- your age
- your gender
- the type of car you drive
- where you live
- your driving history
- the coverage and deductible you choose
While these factors may be different for every driver, a single driver may shop for rates with five different companies and get five different rate quotes. Because of this, you may be able to find savings simply by getting a few different rate quotes. You may find it even more beneficial to use a rate comparison site first before getting quotes.
An auto insurance comparison site will provide you with rate estimates after entering basic information like your zip code into the form. After getting estimates, you can then see which insurers may offer you the best rates with a full quote.
2. Move To a New Home
Many drivers do not realize that where they live affects their auto insurance costs. One factor that insurers use to calculate rates is the vehicle-related crime rate in a certain zip code. This includes theft and vandalism. Another factor insurers analyze is the average age of drivers in a certain zip code.
Younger drivers as well as older drivers are deemed to be riskier, as they are involved in more accidents statistically. So living in a zip code with an exceptionally high or exceptionally low average age can affect your rates. By moving to a zip code with a different crime rate and different demographics, you can enjoy lower auto insurance rates. You can get a quote from your insurance agent before moving to ensure the zip code you are considering moving to is more affordable.
3. Trade In Your Vehicle
Many drivers regularly trade in their vehicle every few years, and others will drive the same vehicle for years until it dies. Whatever your strategy or preference is for owning and trading in vehicles, you should be aware that the vehicle you choose to drive affects your auto insurance rates. Factors such as the safety rating and the number of accidents the model is statistically involved in matter.
Other factors include the size and power of the engine, the safety equipment in the vehicle, the replacement cost of the car and more. Trading in your car may help you save money on your auto insurance. When you trade in your vehicle, be sure to get a quote for insuring a new model before you make your purchase.
4. Move Your Policies
Many insurance companies provide you with a multiple policy discount, and the savings from this discount can be substantial. In some cases, you simply have to purchase a new life insurance policy to qualify for the discount. In other cases, you may benefit from transferring your homeowner’s or renter’s policy to the company.
If you take advantage of this type of discount, ensure that the total cost of insurance you pay for all policies is lower than what you are paying now. This may require you to get a quote for your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance with the new insurance company.
5. Adjust Your Deductible
One way that every driver may be able to save money on their auto insurance is to get quotes for a high deductible amount. Many drivers have a $500 deductible. This deductible typically is affordable for most drivers to pay out-of-pocket, but it also keeps the premium at a reasonable level.
However, you have the ability to increase your deductible to save money on your premium. Many drivers do not realize that by adjusting a deductible from $500 to $750 or $1,000, the savings on their premium can be significant.
You should, however, be sure to keep your deductible at a level that is affordable, as this is a required cost you will have to pay when you file a claim.
6. Buy Coverage You Need
It is easy to lump auto insurance together as one single type of coverage. However, there are numerous types of auto insurance policies that make it easy and affordable to buy coverage for your specific needs. For example, if you need insurance for a vehicle that will be kept in storage, you can simply buy storage insurance for it.
If you are only taking ownership of a vehicle for a short period of time, you can purchase short term coverage. If your car is older and is owned free and clear, you may benefit from buying only a liability policy. You can discuss your specific needs in detail with an auto insurance agent, and then get a quote for only the coverage you really need. Try our FREE quote generator on our website by simply entering you ZIP!
Final Thoughts
Many drivers today are paying more than necessary for their auto insurance cost. You can put some of tips in to practice today to identify savings, such as shopping for rates, adjusting your deductible and coverage levels and putting auto insurance discounts to full use. For additional savings, consider how relocating to a new home and trading in your vehicle may provide additional savings.