Ways to Save on Your Car Insurance

Posted December 1, 2009 – 3:49 pm in: Personal Finance

Insurance is something every driver has to have, and it’s a big item in most people’s monthly budgets. The good news about car insurance is, there are many ways you can reduce your monthly premiums. If you own more than one vehicle, for example, or if you also insure your life or your house, you might get your insurance company to “bundle” your coverage. Bundled coverage provides all your policies, or at least several of your policies, from the same company. Understandably, insurers offer discounts to encourage you to get as much of your coverage as possible from them. Not only do bundled policies cost less, it’s also easier to manage your claims and billing by doing all your business with just one company.

Another easy method of lowering your auto insurance premiums is choosing a higher deductible. Raising your deductible always saves you money, but there is a catch: You absolutely must have the funds on hand to cover your deductible if you suffer a loss.

It’s always a good idea to get premium quotes from more than one insurer. Companies frequently offer you a better deal once they learn you are checking out going with their competition.

If you are a senior, a student, a member of AARP, in the military, over 25, or a woman, you may get a price break on your auto insurance. Make sure you choose policies that reward you for being in one of these categories.

Save even more money on your policy be taking a defensive driving course or basic driver education. Companies will insist on the receipt proving you took and passed the course before you get a discount on your premiums. Many insurers offer a discount of 10 per cent on your premiums for taking these courses that document your seriousness about driving responsibly and safely.

Where you garage your car has a lot to do with how much you pay for insurance. Drivers who live in cities will pay more than drivers who live in small towns. Drivers who live in high-risk areas will pay more than drivers who live in low-risk areas. Different companies define “high-risk” differently, so shop around. What is considered a high risk by one company may be OK with another.

If you own a sports car or other high risk vehicle, considering trading it in for a safer car. Sports cars are classified as high risk because they are more prone to accidents and theft, and that means high car insurance premiums. But if you buy a car that isn?t considered high risk, you will have an easier time negotiating a lower rate on your car insurance premiums. See a qualified insurance provider for more details on what is considered a high risk vehicle.

Finally, ask your provider if there are any discounts they can offer. Many providers have their own car insurance discount programs that can help you save money. Regardless of your car insurance needs, contact a qualified insurance provider. They will be able to help you find the right coverage for your car.

Tom Martens is the content syndication coordinator for Carinsurancesa.co.za. South Africa’s leading car insurance portal.

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One Comment

  1. Posted December 12, 2009 at 7:45 pm | Permalink

    I will add security to lower premiums. Car security is one of the important thing if you have a car like installing alarm system(anti-theft device, passive occupant restraints)to prevent from car theft. Car Insurance company also look into this security and if you don’t have, it will affect your subscription.

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