Car insurance rates seem to increase every year regardless of whether we have submitted claims or not. Is there anything at all that you can do to save money on your car insurance? You may be surprised at the following tips that could save you some bucks on your next policy.
Once you know the minimum coverage that you must have on your vehicle to drive in the state of South Carolina you can figure out what other coverage you need and what you don’t need. You must carry some form of liability coverage but knowing what other levels are available as what the additional coverage options – comprehensive, collision, uninsured motorist – cover in detail.
As soon as you know what your car insurance needs are you can start getting as many quotes as you can. Premiums are going to vary from company to company for the same coverage so it is important to find one that has the best rates and provides good customer service.
Using your computer to shop around can save you even more time by submitting your information online. There are sites that will take your information and put them into their database and will match you up with the companies that are going to give you the best coverage for your money. This works best when you know ahead of time what coverage you need and what you don’t. If you are still not sure it is best to speak directly with an insurance agent who can guide you in the right direction.
Adjusting your deductible can lower your rate considerable. If you raise your out-of-pocket deductible from $250 to $500 you could realize savings up to 10 percent annually. If you are paying $1,200 per year you could save around $120 just with that one modification.
Cutting your collision insurance from your policy can save you some money. If you have an older vehicle you may want to reconsider keeping the collision coverage on it if the value of the car is less than $2,000. If you have a vehicle that is still being financed you must keep this coverage, but if your car is paid off, it may be cheaper in the long run to remove it from your policy.
Always check with your insurance agent to see if they give any discounts for low mileage, safe driving, being a good student, attending defensive driving classes or even for having a safer car. Newer cars have factory installed air bags and some newer ones are installing passenger side air bags. Keyless entry and pre-installed alarm systems also help cut down on liability and will result in lower rates.
Combine all of your insurance polices by taking them out with one main company. Insurance companies give discounts to their customers who use them for all of their insurance needs – car, life, homeowners, rental and health.
If in doubt, check with insurance agent to see if there are any discounts that you may qualify for. Changes occur every day and you never know what will bring you the lowest insurance rates.
