Top 10 tips for Finding the Right Car Insurance

The rise in gas prices has affected the cost of owning a car.

This is why it is a good way to look for other ways you can cut related operating expenses.

The perfect place to start with this is car insurance.

automobile-accident

Insurance is a must have for all drivers, but many people tend to pick the first insurer they come across after buying the car and failing to look the details of the policy for years, which means they are pouring money down the drain. Here are some great ways of finding the right policy and cut your premiums.

1. Do a yearly rate check.

Find out the rates of other companies so as to ensure you are getting the best possible deal. You will find Insurance Departments in many state offering guides to available services, and you can easily find comparison tools online. You won’t be able to get your personalized immediately and you will need to call an agent, but doing a comparison online can be an easier way of finding the best deal for you.

2. Choose a top-rated insurer.

We did a survey with our readers on their car insurance and we were able to find companies that had good ratings did well, but there were some other that were better in some areas example payments, claims, etc.

3. Maintaining a good credit.

Do a regular credit check so you can see your score because having a low score might prove advantageous to you because it affects the premium.

4. Set the right deductible.

Having a higher deductible will reduce your premium, but you will need to pay out of your pocket if an accident happens. If you have a good driving record and haven’t been in an accident or it was not your fault, then you should gamble and opt for a higher premium. You can expect to make up to 40 percent in savings by using this strategy.

5. Review your coverage.

Check and ensure there is enough liability coverage for property damage and bodily harm. With time, the risks and costs will increase, and this should be the case with your coverage. Going for a minimal coverage will mean minimal protection.

6. Report reduce in mileage.

If you have changed your job, working now at home, or become unemployed, call up your insurer. You can qualify for less premium when you drive less.

7. Watch crash repairs.

Find out where the insurer sends you when you need repairs. A repair shop might be able to push you into using cheap replacement part instead of the original equipment made by the manufacturer (OEM parts). Non-OEM parts have been shown to fit poorly, don’t meet the federal safety standards, and prone to rust.

8. Choose the right car.

Another factor that will affect how much you are paying for insurance is the cost of repair and vehicle damage. When you are buying a new car, check and compare data on collisions by vehicle model. You can visit http://www.iihs.org/ so you can find this information. The dealer should be able to provide you with a booklet that has information or collision insurance cost as produced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The estimated insurance fees are considered a part of the owner cot information consumer Reports you can get online for all models of cars.

9. Beware of scams.

There are crooks out there ready to stage accidents, and this can lead to a claim against you. In order to avoid being in such a situation, you should always follow the good diving practices, and if you are involved in a crash, immediately start taking photos and call the police to report it.

10. Ask about discounts.

Discounts are easily available for those seen by the insurance company as lower risk or those who choose to go for the driver-training course. Installing safety equipment will also help in reducing insurance costs. Bundling your home and auto insurance is another way you can save, but you should first check the costs of separate and bundled then choose the option that is cheaper.