Let\u2019s face it, a large part of our monthly incomes goes into our cars \u2013 from finance payments, maintenance and repairs, to auto insurance. And, depending on the type of car you drive, the cost of gasoline can literally be driving you to the poor house. That\u2019s why, you ask yourself: Am I taking advantage of all my available auto insurance discounts?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It should be fairly easy to answer\u2026but, then, again \u2013 that depends on whether or not your insurance agent is looking out for you or himself. Knowing what\u2019s being offered discount-wise and what you may qualify for is important. After all, auto insurance isn\u2019t cheap, so why not benefit from all the discounts that may apply to you? Below are some money-saving ways you may or may not be aware of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It goes without saying that maintaining a clean driving record is one of the best ways to lower your premium. Proving you\u2019re a safe driver to your insurance company may make you eligible for a discount. To save even more money, you may want to consider taking an approved defensive driving course. Many auto insurance carriers will offer this additional discount as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you own more than one vehicle you should be able to qualify for a multiple car discount. The annual average savings on your policy can be up to 25 percent off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you own a home or business, are covered by a renters insurance policy, or paying for boat insurance, in addition to your auto insurance \u2013 using different insurers \u2013 try combining all of your current policies with your auto insurance carrier. They\u2019ll more than likely show their appreciation for the extra business you sent their way by rewarding you with a multiple policy discount.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Technologically speaking, safety features in newer cars have made heading down the road much safer for all of us. Items such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, running lights, collision-avoidance systems, and cameras are only a few examples of what auto insurers look for in the car you drive to lower your annual insurance premium. If your vehicle is equipped with a high-end, factory installed security system \u2013 even better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While you probably qualify for a discount by driving a safety-friendly vehicle\u2026 many insurance companies are now also offering savings if you happen to own an environmentally-friendly and alternative-fuel vehicle. Reason for this is \u2013 insurers believe that if you\u2019re thoughtful about the environment\u2026you\u2019ll be more thoughtful about your driving and other motorists on the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Again, auto insurers use a range of statistics to evaluate and charge us according to those stats. One of those is that married drivers are less likely to be involved in car accidents than single drivers. That being said, since all carriers are different, you might contact your insurance company to ask if they offer such a discount.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you have a teen driver in your household\u2026no one has to tell you what suddenly happened to your low rates when you added them to your policy. Your annual premiums went through the roof.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, there is some relief available if your teenager earns good grades in school. The theory here is \u2013 teen drivers who maintain a high GPA have fewer accidents than those with poor grades. Therefore, if your teen has a \u201cB\u201d average or higher, you can apply for the Good Grades Discount.
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You don\u2019t automatically qualify for this one just because you\u2019re a senior and 55 or older. You have to be a proven safe driver with no accidents or traffic tickets for quite some time. But, it\u2019s definitely a nice savings if you fit the bill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some insurance companies offer a discount if you can verify you\u2019re serving in the military.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You may want to ask about this one, but you can save money by setting up a monthly automatic payment plan from your checking account or credit\/debit card. Though it may not be a huge amount, a discount is a discount. And, every little bit helps.
Keep in mind that, while all auto insurance companies are different, one thing they have in common is \u2013 they all offer discounts. So, don\u2019t be afraid to ask your insurance agent which ones you qualify for and start saving some money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As long as you\u2019re in the mood to save money\u2026make sure you\u2019re getting the best rate on your auto insurance. Why not get a free auto insurance quote today?<\/p>\n\n\n\n