Insurance is necessary, and expensive. Fortunately, there are many ways you can save on insurance premiums. If you own more than one vehicle, if you carry home or life insurance, the simplest way to save on your insurance costs is purchase all your policies from the same company. Putting all your policies together under the same company is called bundling. Companies, understandably, offer substantial discounts on insurance when you purchase more than one policy. It’s also much easier to manage your bundled policies. You only need to see one agent in case of a claim, and you only need to pay one bill.
Another easy way to save money on your car insurance is to raise your insurance premium?s deductible. Simply moving up to the next highest deductible can save you a lot of money. Just make sure you can afford to pay that deductible in case you have to file an insurance claim.
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.
Another way to save money on your car insurance is to take a basic or defensive driving course. You must prove that you took and passed the course in order to receive a discount on your insurance premiums. Many qualified insurance providers offer discounts for successfully completing these driving courses because it shows that you are serious about driving safely and responsibly.
Where you keep your car at night also has a big impact on how you pay for your auto insurance. Drivers who live in small towns pay less than drivers who live in big cities. Drivers who live in low-risk areas pay less than drivers who live in high-risk areas. Every company rates risk differently, so ask around if you are paying extra on your policy just because of where you live.
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, if you can’t find a discount from the list above, ask your authorized insurance agent. Many insurance companies have their own programs that help you lower your costs down to an affordable level. Whatever your personal insurance needs may be, your professional insurance agent can work with you to get exactly the coverage you need.
Tom Martens is the content syndication coordinator for Carinsurancesa.co.za. South Arica?s leading car insurance portal.