Saving on your car insurance is easier than you might imagine. Here are three ways to reduce your costs, as well as an estimate of potential savings based on the national median rate of about $1,400 per year reported by Insurance Rates. If you pay more than the median rate, you could save even more.
1) Take a hard look at your deductible. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), raising your deductible from $250 to $1,000 could reduce your collision and comprehensive coverage costs by up to 40 percent. You'll incur higher costs should you need to file a claim, but the amount you'll save on your premiums may be well worth it.
Estimated Savings: $170 per year
2) Combine your auto insurance policy and either home or renters insurance policy with a single insurer. According to the III, converting to a multilevel policy could save you as much as 15 percent on your auto premium. Plus, you'll have one fewer bill to pay each month.
Estimated Savings: $210 per year
3) If you can afford to, pay your auto insurance premium in one lump sum. Many insurers charge a fee to break up your premium into monthly payments, and even a few dollars a month could amount to a hefty surcharge.
Estimated Savings: $60 per year
In addition, make sure you shop around and speak with agents from several different companies. Insurance providers often specialize in different types of drivers, and depending on your personal circumstances, it's probably worth your while to compare quotes.
