This is a guest post
Car owners can save a lot of money by periodically finding a time to shop for better rates, looking for new discounts and savings. Rates and discounts are always changing in the insurance world. In fact, many people are paying too much. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners lists the 2009 average insurance rate at $901, though people often pay hundreds more since consumers renew policies without shopping around.
The insurance world is competitive. By comparing rates and discounts, car owners could find better deals and save money on great coverage. Researching different groups is easy thanks to the Internet. All it takes is filling out an online form or picking up the phone to find out about great discounts, deals, and promotions.
Look into the Latest Discounts
Discounts are always changing. Every year or so, it is important to check and see if you can qualify for driving safety and other discounts. Some insurers offer discounts to students who have a high grade point average whereas others offer discounts to adults who have passed defensive driving courses.
There are also discounts for a driver affiliated with some professional organizations, has a vehicle with the latest safety features, and more. Military personnel can expect savings from groups like USAA, a financial services provider for active military personnel. If you are investigating options, you should review multiple insurance company websites for more information about the latest discounts.
Promotions and Deals
Promotions and deals happen all of the time in the insurance world. When a policy is about to expire, it is up to a car owner to look round at competitors and see how they could match or improve current rates and terms. Some companies offer new customer rates whereas others have referral promotions for a friend or loved one.
Research with Any Vehicle Change or Update
Over time, people trade used cars in for newer models. These vehicles may have enhanced safety features or may be considered less at risk for accidents. Whenever there is a change in vehicle, drivers should talk not only to his or her existing provider but to competitors, too.
Such providers can even suggest safe makes and models if the car-buying decision hasn’t yet been made. Similarly, updating a vehicle’s tires or a person’s commute distance can also affect insurance premiums.
Time Provides Discounts
The older a person grows, the better insurance rates will be, especially with a clear driving record. After all, insurance companies are looking for low-risk drivers who will not get into accidents and need expensive repairs. Whenever a driving infraction or ticket has been removed from a person’s record, this makes them less risky to insure, which results in better rates.
The safer a person is, the better the rates. This is why it is important to keep a driving record clear, choose safe vehicles, and enroll in a defensive driving course.
Smart car owners need to stay on top of insurance policies and rates. Periodically, it is appropriate to shop around and see what other providers have to offer. Armed with new rates and terms, one can even negotiate with the existing provider.
Discounts and risk levels are always changing. Informed car owners always make sure to understand changing rates. It really does not hurt to ask and shop around to see what’s out there.
This guest post was written by Alan Meyers, a freelance blogger and finance researcher. He firmly believes that putting in the right research can go a long way to saving yourself quite a bit of money.
Image by dalechumbley