5 ways to cut auto insurance costs this summer
Issue date: 6/1/08 Section: Cars and Trucks
(ARA) - With gas prices expected to remain high this summer, it makes sense to save as much as possible on other vehicle-related expenses, such as insurance. You may feel the insurance company has all the power when it comes to setting your rates, but the truth is you're the one in the driver's seat.
"Insurance is one of the easiest vehicle-related expenses to control," says Stephen Semprevivo, president of LowerMyBills.com, a free online resource for consumers to compare low rates on monthly bills and reduce the cost of living. "From how and what you drive to the type of plan you choose, you control a lot of the factors that dictate your insurance costs."
Here are five steps you can take to curb insurance costs this summer:
1. Comparison Shop
Prices can vary widely from company to company, so it pays to shop around for the best policy deal. Remember, though, that the cheapest deal isn't necessarily the best. Look for a combination of good coverage and a good rate. A cheap rate isn't worth much if the policy doesn't meet your coverage needs.
Thanks to the Internet, it's easier than ever to comparison shop across a range of companies. Web sites like LowerMyBills.com allow you to quickly and easily get information and compare multiple insurance carriers.
While any time is a good time to comparison shop for a better insurance rate, it's particularly important to do so when you experience a major life change. Life events such as marriage or divorce, adding a child or driver, relocating or purchasing a new car can impact the insurance rate you may qualify for.
2. Drive Better
A good driving record is a powerful bargaining chip when you're insurance shopping. Insurance companies are interested in minimizing risk, and drivers with clean records are generally considered to be better risks. Practice safe and courteous driving. If your skills are a bit rusty, or you've picked up some bad habits, consider taking a refresher course. Many insurers offer discounts to drivers - especially teens - who take driver's education courses.
"Insurance is one of the easiest vehicle-related expenses to control," says Stephen Semprevivo, president of LowerMyBills.com, a free online resource for consumers to compare low rates on monthly bills and reduce the cost of living. "From how and what you drive to the type of plan you choose, you control a lot of the factors that dictate your insurance costs."
Here are five steps you can take to curb insurance costs this summer:
1. Comparison Shop
Prices can vary widely from company to company, so it pays to shop around for the best policy deal. Remember, though, that the cheapest deal isn't necessarily the best. Look for a combination of good coverage and a good rate. A cheap rate isn't worth much if the policy doesn't meet your coverage needs.
Thanks to the Internet, it's easier than ever to comparison shop across a range of companies. Web sites like LowerMyBills.com allow you to quickly and easily get information and compare multiple insurance carriers.
While any time is a good time to comparison shop for a better insurance rate, it's particularly important to do so when you experience a major life change. Life events such as marriage or divorce, adding a child or driver, relocating or purchasing a new car can impact the insurance rate you may qualify for.
2. Drive Better
A good driving record is a powerful bargaining chip when you're insurance shopping. Insurance companies are interested in minimizing risk, and drivers with clean records are generally considered to be better risks. Practice safe and courteous driving. If your skills are a bit rusty, or you've picked up some bad habits, consider taking a refresher course. Many insurers offer discounts to drivers - especially teens - who take driver's education courses.
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
Snoreta
posted 3/17/09 @ 4:38 AM EST
Hi,
Thanks for the information.I would like to know more about it.
Snoreta
Great Auto Insurance
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