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Posts Tagged ‘Auto Insurance Rates’

Ways to Save on Auto Insurance

February 23rd, 2010 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

The American economy is sucking a lot of money out of consumers? pockets due to high gas prices and the general increase in every other consumer good from food to clothing that is associated with high oil prices. However, there is good news on the horizon, and that is that auto insurance rates are being reduced. Despite this reduction, there are several things you should keep in mind when shopping for car insurance to ensure you receive the best rate and coverage for you and your vehicle.

Tip #1 Shop Around
There are so many different auto insurers out there you might think it difficult to find the best insurance at the lowest prices. However, don?t despair because all you have to do is shop around. The easiest way to do this is to go online and search all your favorite car insurers in order to receive a fast and free online quote. Then, you can simply compare the services and prices of the insurers and make the best choice for you. Spending a little time on research might save you hundreds of dollars on car insurance.

Tip #2 Look for the Discounts
You may not have known this, but many auto insurers provide discounts to drivers for good driving behavior and other reasons as well. So, ask about the discounts available through various insurance providers and consider how many you would qualify for. More than likely if you qualify for one or two then your rates could easily drop several hundred dollars per year.

Tip #3 Maintain Your Credit
Unbeknownst to you, your credit score affects your car insurance rate. As a result, you should be sure to maintain your credit score as high as possible in order to not only receive the benefits of good credit, but also to pay lower car insurance premiums. It is really worthwhile, and something you will benefit from economically.

These tips are great ways for you as a consumer to take your car insurance needs into your own hands and find the best provider with the lowest rates and most coverage. When you start doing the research, you will be amazed how much money you can save as well as how many more benefits you can receive. Go ahead and start saving on your auto insurance today, there is no reason to wait.

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Car Insurance Rates Can You Lower Them

February 16th, 2010 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

Car insurance rates are prohibitive nowadays. Many families really struggle to pay the car insurance bill each month. And car insurance rates vary all the time. So if car insurance cost is an issue for you, what can you do about it?

The car insurance industry is a massive industry. It is also a highly competitive one, and car insurance rates vary over time as car insurance companies compete for business. Car insurance rates are often highly fluid.

It is entirely possible to lower the cost of your auto insurance rates by altering your behaviour, and you can do this by having a better understanding of how the rates are assessed.

Car insurance rates are based on an assessment of risk. Whilst insurance companies vary their rates to compete with other insurance companies, they also vary their rates based on their assessment of the risk posed by a particular driver driving a particular car. They do this because there is no point in buying business with low car insurance rates and then insuring high risk drivers at these rates. This is a recipe for losing money.

So, if you lower your risk, you lower your car insurance. How do you
lower your risk? Well there?s a number of ways that your own driving and car behaviour can affect your car insurance rates.

Have a look at the car you drive. Is it suitable for your current needs? If not then would it be worthwhile to consider a change?

Different cars attract different auto insurance rates. Sports cars, high powered cars and cars at greater risk of theft attract higher rates. How long have you had your car and would it be wise to think about another one that would be cheaper to insure and more useful to you?

Are you a safe driver? Do you stick to the speed limit? Are you at risk of other driving offences? Many people do not think about some of the consequences of speeding tickets and driving offences until after they have seen their subsequent car insurance bill.

Your risk profile is a direct result of your driving record. A clean driving record and you will be rewarded by cheaper rates. A poor driving record and you will be penalised, usually for quite a while.

Are you willing to attend driver training courses? Many car insurance companies offer specific discounts for drivers who have attended a course. Why? Lower risk.

Are you willing to drive less? Could you car pool or use public transport to get to work? Car insurance companies look at the amount of driving their clients do when assessing their car insurance rates. Why? Lower risk. Less miles driven equals less risk. And you?ll save on other car costs too.

So if auto insurance costs are an issue for you and your family there are things you can do. These are just a few of those things, there are many more. Car insurance rates are not set in stone.

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Auto Insurance – What Factors Effect Your Rates

January 2nd, 2010 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

Car insurance is something that we all need – if we drive a car. While having car insurance may not be an option, just how much we pay for it is. There are a number of things that can make those numbers add up, while other factors will tend to bring those numbers down. Here are some of those things.

Factors About You

This is probably the greatest factor about you that will set the rates. Car insurers tend to think that a male that is 25 or less is prone to be less careful than a female driver of the same age. This means that a young man will pay more for the same coverage on the same car than a girl would that is just as old. When you get married, though, you will usually see a drop in your insurance rates – guess that means you should be more responsible – and careful ? even if you still are less than 25.

Another thing is whether you have had a driver’s training course or not. If you have had formal instruction, you can tell your insurance agent, and that should result in a small discount. And then there is the matter of your driving record. If you have traffic violations, or a past accident (or two) within the last three years, your rates will be raised accordingly. If you have enough of these, insurance companies will not insure you.

Your job can also effect your insurance rates. If you drive a lot of miles every year, it increases the likelihood of an accident, which means higher rates.

The Car

The car itself is also a main consideration as to what your auto insurance rates will be. This is based on risk to the insurer. A more expensive car means that an insurer may lose more money – so they charge you more for it. Obviously, your insurance rates on a Ferrari will be higher than on most other cars. Also, a brand new car right off the dealer’s lot will be more than a car that is one year old. Some models of cars are the most likely to be stolen. These cars are reported regularly online every year, and if you want lower rates the stay away from these hot cars.

Having certain safety features on your car can reduce your rates, too. If you live in an urban area, things like steering wheel locks, car alarms, and other features will lower your rates.

The Neighborhood

Where you live is another main consideration. For instance, those living in an urban area will find their car insurance rates to be much higher than those who live in a rural area. This could be a difference of over 230%PRCTG% – depending on which city, and in what neighborhood in that city you live. With more traffic comes a greater likelihood of getting into an accident. Theft is also another concern.

The Policy

The policy itself, and what you choose in the way of options and coverage, will also effect the price of your insurance payments. You can reduce your car insurance costs by increasing the deductible, and possibly by eliminating some of the other options you probably will never use. Make sure, though, that if you increase the deductible, that you can afford it. If you were to have an accident, it will be necessary to pay the deductible before the insurer will do their part.

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Tips On How To You Can Get Better Auto Insurance Rates

December 11th, 2009 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

Getting better rates on your auto insurance is something that many people would like to do. So many are paying a lot of money, too much money – and doing it unnecessarily. By following a few simple steps, you could reduce your annual auto insurance costs, and save some money for those other projects you would like to do. Here are five steps that will enable you to reduce your costs.

1. Compare Car Insurance Quotes

This is one of the easiest things to do, because you can do it at any time of day, just by going online. You will want to find an insurance Web site that will allow you to get several quotes from different companies with just one application. When you do this, go to at least two different Web sites and get several quotes from both.

Before you get that new car insurance policy, however, you may want to do a little research to discover some things about the company ? if you are not familiar with that name. You might check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are many complaints about them not paying for accidents, etc.

2. Read About Car Insurance

In order to really understand what you may be able to do without, in the way of options, you should have a good understanding of what the options cover. Greater savings will come from a greater understanding of what your needs really are. For instance, if you have a brand new car, you may not need the towing option for at least a year or two. You may also be able to do without car rental, too.

3. Increase Your Deductible

This is one thing that can give you a noticeable reduction. By increasing the amount of money that you pay in each accident, you put the insurance company at less of a risk. They like this, and will lower your rates to reflect the amount that you increase your part. Be sure, though, that if you have an accident tomorrow that you can afford to pay the deductible. You will be required to pay it before the auto insurance company will pay their part.

4. Get Less Coverage

Instead of buying the most coverage you can, it is a good idea to get the recommended amount. Also, if your car is more than 10 years old, you should probably drop the comprehensive part of your auto insurance. After 10 years, you may be paying more for your comprehensive than the car is worth. Save this money instead, and apply it to getting another, newer car.

5. Add Security Features To Your Car

If you live in a more urban area, or in an area where there is car theft, you can lower your car insurance rates by adding some security features to your car. These usually result in a discount with each new feature you have. This includes steering wheel locks, auto alarms, and satellite tracking systems.

Besides these things, you may want to talk to your car insurance agent to see if driving classes will also lower your rates. Having multiple cars insured by the same company, and staying away from cars that are the most likely to be stolen, or sporty, will reduce your rates, too.

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How Can You Get Cheap Auto Insurance In New York

December 8th, 2009 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

Auto insurance companies consider several factors when setting the rates of auto insurance policies. One important factor is the safety of the area in which the automobile is primarily driven and parked. Many parts of New York are considered high crime areas, and auto insurance companies are naturally going to hike auto insurance rates up for drivers who live, and drive, in high crime areas.

Living and driving in New York doesn?t mean you have to pay outrageously high auto insurance rates. There is a way to get cheap auto insurance in New York. First, think of the problem, which is the fact that auto insurance companies view automobiles in New York as being at high risk for theft, burglary, vandalism, and other damaging factors. So, aside from moving to a safer place, how can you combat these risks and get cheaper auto insurance in New York? By making your automobile safer, of course!

Install safety devices that weren?t included when you purchased your automobile. Safety devices worth considering are automobile alarm systems that sound when someone tries to break into your automobile; equipment that prevents your steering wheel from being turned if a thief should get your automobile started; and sturdier windows that will prevent anyone from breaking into your automobile.

Also consider where your automobile is stored when you aren?t driving it. If your automobile is parked on the side of the street while you sleep at night, auto insurance companies are likely to give you higher insurance rates. If you have a garage or rent parking space in a secure and private parking lot, auto insurance companies are likely to offer you cheaper auto insurance.

If you?re shopping for auto insurance in New York, or already have an auto insurance policy, talk with your insurance agent about making these safety improvements to your automobile and how they will help you get cheap auto insurance in New York.

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How To Find Affordable Automobile Insurance In Oregon

November 20th, 2009 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

Automobile insurance is expensive and as the price of new cars continues to skyrocket, the price of auto insurance is not likely to come down anytime in the near future. If anything, look for auto insurance rates to continue their upward spiral.

So what can you, as a good Oregon driver do to keep your automobile insurance rates affordable? Actually there are quite a few things.

If you are under 25 your rates will be among the highest in the state ? however, if you are in school and maintaining good grades, many insurance companies will give you a Good Student Discount.

If you own a home and have homeowner?s insurance or you have a life insurance policy check with your insurance company to see if you qualify for a multi-policy discount.

If your car has an anti-theft device, or if you add one to your car you may be entitled to a discount on your insurance. Likewise, if you pass an advanced driving safety course you may qualify for still further discounts.

If you car is being financed, your financial institution will probably require you to carry full insurance coverage, but if you own your vehicle outright there is nothing to stop you from buying only the minimum insurance required by the state of Oregon ? which can save you a considerable amount of money.

In fact, depending on the age of your vehicle, you could forego buying Comprehensive insurance on your vehicle at all ? comprehensive pays for your vehicle if it is damaged by hitting an animal, or if it is damaged by an ?Act of God,? such as fire, flood, wind or hail.

Another way many people help control the cost of their automobile insurance in Oregon is by raising their deductible. Your deductible is the money you must pay out of your own pocket for an accident before your insurance pays for the rest. The higher your deductible the lower your monthly insurance payments.

So while automobile insurance is expensive here in Oregon, there are many steps you can take to keep your costs as low as possible. By putting as many into practice as you can, you should be able to find affordable automobile insurance in Oregon.

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5 Quickest ways to lower your Auto Insurance Premium

November 20th, 2009 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

Are you looking for ways to lower your Auto Insurance Premium? Auto insurance rates can spiral depending upon factors that include your age, past driving record, and other factors such as credit history. However, the trick is to find ways to lower the annual pay-off. We have pulled up for you the 5 quickest ways to lower your Auto Insurance Premium.

Tip 1: Hike up your deductible

Stop trying to get the ?lowest deductible?, instead go in for a comfortably higher out of pocket payment plan. ?Deductible? is the amount that you would pay before your insurance policy kicks in. This is an easy way to reduce your periodic premium amount, however, be warned, in such a case, if something happens to your vehicle – you need to shell out more to cover the initial expenses, prior to going in for a claim.

Tip 2: Park your vehicle in a garage

One of the simplest ways to cut down on insurance premium is to park your vehicle in a garage, personal or commercial establishments. This helps in knocking off, in some cases, close to 20%PRCTG% of the premium. In a garage, the chances of your vehicle getting stolen or sideswiped are considerably lower. From a transaction perspective, parking in a garage could mean a difference between a preferred rate and a standard rate.

Tip 3: Shop around and bargain

Nothing beats the traditional ?shop around to bargain?. Make sure you at least have three to four price quotes with you, prior to fixing on the service provider. Ensure that you are not shopping for price alone, but the whole deal.

Tip 4: Take a Defensive Driving Course

Not many people are aware of this. By volunteering for a state-approved defensive driving course, you can avail discounts in premium of up to 10%PRCTG%. However, do cross check with your insurer on this.

Tip 5: Downsizing Coverage

Well, downsizing coverage is perhaps the easiest way to lower your auto insurance premium. However, we suggest you to be careful and prudent, while taking this decision. This might save money, but, would also limit coverage.

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How To Find The Best Rates On Car Insurance In Tennessee

November 6th, 2009 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

If you?re looking to find the best rates on car insurance in Tennessee, you?ll need to shop around. It sounds simple, but it?s a tried and true way of getting low auto insurance quotes in Tennessee. Begin by talking with current policyholders. Next, set out to get your own car insurance quotes. Then, do some research on the insurance companies in which you?re interested. Finally, sign the dotted line!

Talk with other car insurance policyholders.

There?s undoubtedly someone in your circle of family, friends, neighbors and coworkers who has a car insurance policy. Ask around. Find out who?s satisfied with their cheap auto insurance rates and why. Also find out who?s unsatisfied and why. Word-of-mouth is the most honest form of advertisement. Satisfied customers will want to brag about the best rates on car insurance in Tennessee, while unsatisfied customers will want to warn you ? and prevent the company from doing any more business!

Get a free auto insurance quote.

Consider the companies your friends have suggested and get online. There are countless websites out there claiming to provide the best rates on car insurance in Tennessee. Take one up on its offer, and compare the different auto insurance companies and policies.

Investigate the car insurance companies in Tennessee.

Once you?ve found some low auto insurance quotes in Tennessee that seem promising, it?s time to research the companies providing the coverage. First, check the financial rating of each insurer by using an independent research company. Then, visit the Better Business Bureau online to check up on complaints filed and how they were handled. Finally, contact the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance to find out if the insurance company is licensed to sell auto insurance in the state.

Seal the deal!

The final step is self-explanatory: Contact the insurance company, speak with a representative about any questions and turn your low auto insurance quote in Tennessee into an insurance policy!

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Car insurance rates predicted

October 18th, 2009 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

There are ways to reduce your premiums without giving up coverage. One of the easiest things to do is get auto insurance rate quotes online. This will allow you to comparative shop stress free.

Car insurance will vary depending on the insurance agency, your driving record, and the type of insurance you are looking to purchase. I you are looking for affordable car insurance or truck insurance then read on.

Raising your deductibles is the easiest way to reduce your rates. The higher the deductible, the lower the premium will be. The deductible is the portion you will have to pay in the event of accident, before your insurance coverage steps in. It?s important not to carry a deductible that?s more than what you are able to pay. Your insurance company will not honor its portion of the claim until you?ve paid your deductible. However, the higher your deductible the lower your premium cost will be, so you need to find a

Always remember to ask your insurance broker for any available discounts. Quite often we forget to ask and they don?t seem to volunteer the information. A clean record on the current policy for a certain period of time, having your homeowner’s coverage with the same insurer, taking a defensive driving course, having an accident free driving record, and having an approved anti-theft device will reduce your auto insurance rates.

The type of car you drive can also reduce your rates. Stay away from cars that have a high class rating. Rates vary among the different makes and models of vehicles. The different rates are based on the risk of accident, cost to repair, higher theft rates for a particular model and replacement costs such as with a new vehicle. So be sure your vehicle isn?t going to be in a category that increases your rates too much.

A safe driving record consisting of no accidents and no traffic violations will get you the most substantial discount. Most insurance companies are very good at recognizing good driving habits. These are the drivers they want to insure because their risk is much lower.

Check around to make sure you are getting the best auto rates you can. Online auto insurance shopping has taken the guess work out of buying insurance and you can very quickly see if you are being hosed. So if your insurance is coming due now is the time to start shopping!.

If the car is old and not very valuable, comprehensive insurance is probably not worth buying as it can quickly add up to more than you?d ever receive in the event of an accident. You can save up to 20%PRCTG% by eliminating collision insurance. You may want to opt not to carry collision insurance as well which can save you and additional 20%PRCTG%.

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Tips for Getting Cheap Auto Insurance Rates

September 23rd, 2009 Car Insurance Buyer No comments

Getting a quote for auto insurance online is easy… but finding cheap insurance can be more of a challenge. It takes diligence and knowledge.

Here are a few tips to help you find the cheapest auto insurance available.

Safety Features
Make sure your vehicle is well built and “safety” feature rich. You should get cheaper premiums for adding anti-theft devices, car alarms or a good tracking system since these items reduce the risk of your car being stolen.

Defensive Driving
Take a defensive driving class. Certification will help you in your quest to locate cheap auto insurance and can reduce your premium for up to three years.

Comparing Rates
The automobile industry is fiercely competitive. Premiums can vary by as much as 300%PRCTG% for the same coverage. Be sure you are comparing apples to apples on the features you need the most when searching for cheap auto insurance.

Complete Application
If you don’t complete the application in full, the insurance companies are not going to give you a quote for their cheapest auto insurance and you won’t find out about any of the discounts you may be eligible for. You’ll simply get a higher rate quote by default. Be sure to enter your marital status, how many licensed drivers are in your home, your car’s safety features, your zip code, the miles you drive, etc.

Increase Your Deductible
You can also reduce your rates by selecting a higher deductible. Generally the higher the deductible, the lower the premium. Your savings can be as much as hundreds of dollars by increasing your deductible from %250 to %500.

Cut Back on Your Miles
If you travel less than an average of 40 miles a day, you’ll more than likely qualify for a low mileage discount. If you must travel more, car pool or use the public transportation one or two days a week to reduce the miles you drive.

Color of Your Car
Statistics tell us that red cars are involved in more accidents than any other color. If you want to find the cheapest auto insurance, avoid buying a red vehicle.

Who Drives What Car the Most?
Compare quotes with the man as the main driver and the woman as the second driver and vice versa on each of your vehicles. Always, place your younger drivers (teenagers) on the safest vehicle you own, such as the family station wagon or the family car. You’ll never find cheap auto insurance by putting your teenager on a sporty little two door vehicle.

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