Save money on your auto insurance: Money-saving car insurance tips

Are you paying too much for your auto insurance? If you believe you are paying too much for your current auto insurance coverage then the following suggestions may help you save money:

1. Shop around
   Sure, you've read this tip everywhere but it's true. Only by shopping around for auto insurance coverage and getting quotes on premiums from several insurance companies will you be able to know for certain you are getting your car insurance coverage at the best available rate.

When shopping for your auto insurance policy, remember to compare more than insurance rates. Ask about how insurance claims are approved and processed, and how quickly they're paid. Look into each insurers' financial stability (there are independent rating services that can help you with this.) Remember, during times of stress like after an accident you will be dealing with the insurance company and you'll want to make sure you'll be helped when you need it most.

1. Select a higher insurance deductible
   When you file a claim, a deductible is the amount you pay first before your insurer pays the remaining balance. Often people select lower deductibles, so when they have to submit a claim, their out-of-pocket expenses are minimal. But the truth is, the higher your collision and comprehensive deductibles the lower your auto insurance premium. The savings by increasing your deductible to say $1,000 from $250 are significant—you can save hundreds of dollars off your insurance premium.

Of course, the flipside is that if you should have to submit an insurance claim you are responsible for paying the deductible. So select the maximum deductible you can afford to pay—the higher the better because the difference in your car insurance premiums will mean more cash in your pocket.

1. Remove or reduce coverage on older vehicles
   If your car is getting up there in age, you may want to think about dropping the collision or comprehensive coverage (or both) on your policy. You need to think about this one though - it's not always a clear-cut decision. You need to weigh the cost of the two coverages with the value of your car and your chosen deductibles. For example, if you had a 10-year-old car that's worth about $1000, and your deductible was $1000, the coverage is not actually going to help you.

2. Ask about discounts
   Most insurance companies offer discounts. While the availability of discounts will vary depending on your insurer, where you live and whether you meet eligibility, make sure to ask if there are any discounts you can take advantage of. The following is a list of a few of the more common discounts (if available in your state, each insurer will have different eligibility requirements):

• Multi-vehicle discount - available if you insure multiple vehicles with the same insurer
• Multi-line discount - available if you insure your home and auto with the same insurer
• Good driver discount - if you have not had an accident or ticket in a long time
• Good student discount - if you're a student with good grades, usually about a B average
• Safe driver discount - if you've taken and passed an accredited driver safety course
• Anti-theft discount - if your vehicle has certain anti-theft devices installed
• Safe vehicle discount - if your vehicle has certain extra safety features
• Retiree discount - if you've reached a certain age, usually 50 or 55
• Low mileage discount - if your vehicle is not driven often
• Occupational discount - if you work in a certain field or hold a certain degree
• Auto club discount - if you are a member of an auto club, like AAA
• Association discount - if you belong to certain associations, like your alma mater
• Away-at-school discount - if your child is attending school out of town

1. Choose a car that costs less to insure
   If you're purchasing a new car and have narrowed it down to two or three options, compare the auto insurance rates of each to see if there is a notable difference in the cost to insure. Remember, insurance rates are more for vehicles with high theft rates and repair costs. If there is a significant difference in cost to insure your first choice car, you may have to reconsider.

2. Drive safely
   OK, this one is obvious but true. Driver's with no accidents, tickets or insurance claims almost always pay less for their auto insurance coverage. Your driving record is an influential factor in determining your insurance rate. Tickets and at-fault accidents affect your insurance rates for years. With a less than perfect driving record, you can find yourself paying a lot of extra insurance premium over the years.