What affects premiums:
- Type of vehicle - SUVs, convertibles and performance vehicles typically cost more to insure.
- Where you live - areas prone to extreme weather, heavy traffic and risk of theft may have higher rates
- Where you park - places like garages or locked parking lots decrease the likelihood that your car will be stolen
- Safety and anti-theft devices on autos can reduce premiums
- Driving record, claims history and credit history
- Deductible amount – the higher the deductible, the lower the premium
How to save money on car insurance:
- Drive safely. Accidents and violations increase rates.
- Increase deductibles only if you can afford to pay the deductible in case of a loss.
- Consider dropping collision and/or comprehensive coverage on a low value car that is not financed if you can afford to repair or replace the vehicle or do without it. If the car is financed, collision and comprehensive coverage is usually required by the bank and dropping the coverage could default the loan.
- Consider insurance when buying high performance, luxury cars and SUVS, which have high premiums.
- Buying safety devices such as anti-lock brakes and passive restraint systems both to protect you and your family can make you eligible for premium discounts.
- For teenagers - get good grades and take driver training since both qualify for discounts.
- For drivers over 60 years and older - take an accident prevention course which qualifies for a discount.
- Maintain a good credit history
- Shop around. There are considerable differences in rates among companies.
