In the age of paying more and getting less, it is becoming harder and harder to not only find a good discount on car insurance but also to qualify for it. However, if one looks carefully there are several ways to access the benefits of cheap auto insurance.
- Type of vehicle
There is a prevailing myth that has been circling for years that red or yellow cars could impact the cost of vehicle insurance. Fortunately, this theory is wrong. In fact it is the type of vehicle that affects the price. Insurers, do not ask the color of the car, but do ask the make and model. If you want cheap auto insurance, choose substance over style.
- Older drivers
Age does have its benefits and the less junior the driver the better the benefit. Younger drivers are less experienced behind the wheel and are deemed more reckless. Therefore their rates are going to be higher. While their more senior candidates are seen as safer and therefore less of a risk.
- Membership discounts (unions, national organizations, clubs, etc)
Being a part of the band so to speak, is a terrific way to cash in on cheap car insurance. Many state or national groups, like unions, are part of the ‘in crowd’. They have the membership buying power to qualify for the group rate. The more people in the group that sign up for the insurance plans, the lower the rate is likely to be. Speaking to leadership representatives will let you know which insurance companies your group is affiliated with and how to apply the offered discounts.
- Accident free (no chargeable accidents)
Costing your insurance company a lot of money in claims is a great way to increase your insurance premiums. This is one of those times, where accumulating points will count against you. Consequently, qualifying for discount rates means keeping traffic violations and chargeable accidents to a bare minimum over a certain period of time.
- Take driving classes
The benefit of education applies even with car insurance. While quite a few states require a drivers’ education course when first time applicants, taking refresher courses can have a dramatic effect on how much insurance premiums can be. Most states allow that the refresher courses be taken about every three years, but the benefit can be taken away if you get into an accident.
- Credit Counts
Keep your credit score in check. Just like applying for a credit card or car loan, the insurance premiums can be higher if your credit score is higher. With a few exceptions in states like Hawaii, Massachusetts and California. Insurance companies in these states are not allowed to consider credit scores as a part of the application process. The better you look on paper, the lower the car insurance can be.
- Military/Federal and State Government/Emergency Response
As a show of appreciation, many insurance companies offer a discount to certain career classes. The benefit these career fields receive goes way beyond a discount at their favorite restaurant. Falling into one of these categories can yield an impressive discount on car insurance premiums.
While you search around for how to get the most bang out of your insurance dollars, these are just a few simple things to consider. However, there are other options that can be considered that can come in handy as well. Do not forget to shop around and do not skip over the little guy. Quality car insurance can be found for anyone willing to ask for discounts in the first place.
