Virginia – Tips for Saving on Car Insurance

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Car insurance is no small expense today, but the good news is that there are tips for saving on car insurance in Virginia that will allow you to protect you and your vehicle for less. While many people make the mistake of assuming car insurance rates are set by insurance companies, or even the state, the truth is that there is a wide range of coverage and costs involved in auto insurance in Virginia. By learning the ins and outs of how auto insurance is priced, you can give yourself some bargaining power to ensure you get the lowest rates possible. This article will provide some of the best tips for saving on car insurance in Virginia.

Shop Around

Because prices are not set in stone, it pays to shop around for the best prices you can find on your auto insurance coverage. Most states provide dozens of insurance companies to choose from, so even if you make a list of 10 companies to call, you will barely be scratching the surface. Before you begin calling, make a list of the specific coverage you want, to ensure you are comparing apples to apples with every company. For example, if you want a minimum of $25,000 bodily injury liability with a $250 deductible, ask for the price of the exact same coverage with every company you call. It is also important to list all of the deductibles you qualify for, so that this savings is factored into your total cost with each company you shop.

Don’t Buy More than you Need

Many drivers make the mistake of purchasing more coverage than they really need. Many states, including Virginia, have minimum requirements for certain types of coverage like liability and uninsured motorist. Consider carefully if you really need more coverage than what your state requires. It is also possible that coverage like personal injury protection will simply double up what you already have with your health and disability insurance. You may even decide that your older car is simply not worth the cost to insure it through comprehensive and collision coverage, and you may even drop that part of your coverage completely.

Know your Discounts

Insurance companies reward their customers with all kinds of potential discounts, so make sure you know exactly what you qualify for. You might get a savings by insuring more than one vehicle with a company, maintaining a safe driving record or living in a rural community. Insurance companies also give discounts to cars loaded with safety features like anti-lock brakes or additional side airbags. Even your age and gender can get you a discount, especially if you are a woman between the ages of 25 and 65. Some customers with good grades or a positive credit history can also qualify for discounts.

By learning how insurance companies set their premiums, you can do much to affect how much you end up paying for your coverage. By using these tips, you can ensure you get the coverage you need for a price you can afford.