Save Money on Your Car Insurance -

Is it just us or is car insurance getting out-of-control expensive? Especially if you’ve got kids who drive, car insurance payments can set you back thousands upon thousands per year, even if you’re a safe driver!

Obviously we’re biased but we think good drivers should be rewarded for driving safely and their insurance rates should reflect that. Whether you’re paying too much, just went through a rate hike, or are new to car insurance and can barely believe your first statement, here are five proactive ways to save money on your insurance bill.

1. Call your insurance provider.
It seems simple, but the first step you should take when looking to lower your insurance payments is to reach out directly to your provider. They may offer discounts you weren’t aware of or they may lower your rate if you say you’re going to switch. If they call your bluff, call at least 3 other companies and have them quote the exact same coverage for you and see where your policy falls.

2. Change out your vehicle.
It may not be that convenient but if you’ve already been thinking about it, now may be a good time to downsize your vehicle or trade it in for something older. Obviously, the more your car is worth the more it’s going to cost to insure it. You could also find ways to cut back on your mileage – maybe by moving close to work? – because less mileage per year means you may see a rate reduction.

3. Go back to school.
Well, not really. But if you’ve had a ticket or two or especially if you’re a teenager, taking a defensive driving class at a local accredited traffic school is a good way to reduce your payments. If you’ve been convicted of something more serious like a DUI you’ll probably be required by the courts to attend counseling and a DUI/class, both of which will help your insurance rate keep from rising too dramatically, depending on your record.

4. Up your deductible.
If you’re a really careful driver and you don’t mind a little risk, up your insurance deductible with just a phone call. It will obviously help keep your monthly premiums down but beware, if you get into an accident (even if it’s not your fault!) you will probably be required to pay the now-higher deductible to get your vehicle fixed.

5. Park in the garage.
No, seriously, cars parked on streets or in driveways are statistically more likely to be sideswiped or broken into. If you’ve got a garage that’s full of junk, clean it out and tell your insurer! If you live in an apartment complex with a parking garage, tell them that too. They won’t know anything you don’t tell them (i.e. you started working from home and no longer have a commute) so you have to keep them abreast of changes in your driving and parking habits.

Your car insurance doesn’t have to eat up your whole paycheck but it’s a necessary evil. All 50 states require drivers to have a minimum amount of car insurance to drive legally and if you get pulled over you could be faced with a heavy fine if found uninsured. Pay your premiums, keep your records current, and stay in touch with your insurer!