Helpful insurance tips
Tip #1: Before You Buy a Car, Check Insurance
Before you buy a new or used car, check into insurance costs. Car insurance premiums are based in part on the car's sticker price, the cost to repair it, its overall safety record, and the likelihood of theft. Many insurers offer discounts for features that reduce the risk of injuries or theft. These include air bags and anti-theft devices.
Last update on 23. May 2019 by Cassie Hayden.
Tip #2: Ask for Higher Deductibles
Deductibles are what you pay before your insurance policy kicks in. By requesting higher deductibles, you can lower your costs substantially. For example, increasing your deductible from $300 to $500 could reduce your collision coverage cost by 15 to 30 percent. Going to a $1,000 deductible can save you 40 percent or more. Before choosing a higher deductible, be sure you have enough money set aside to pay it if you have a claim. Also be sure you have approval from your lienholder, if applicable.
Last update on 23. May 2019 by Cassie Hayden.
Tip #3: Reduce Coverage on Older Cars
Consider dropping collision and/or comprehensive coverages on older cars. If your car is worth less than 10 times the premium, purchasing the coverage may not be cost effective. Contact our office for the NADA value. Review your coverage at renewal time to make sure your insurance needs haven't changed.
Last update on 23. May 2019 by Cassie Hayden.
Tip #4: Combine Home & Auto
Save money on your home & auto by having all your insurance needs serviced by our agency. Some insurers reduce the rate for long-time customers. Multi-car discounts are also available.
Last update on 23. May 2019 by Cassie Hayden.
Tip #5: Maintain a Good Credit History
Establishing a solid credit history can cut your insurance costs. Insurers are increasingly using credit information to price auto insurance policies. To protect your credit standing, pay your bills on time, don't obtain more credit than you need and keep your credit balances as low as possible. Check your credit record on a regular basis and have any errors corrected promptly so that your record remains accurate.
Last update on 23. May 2019 by Blair Winans.
Tip #6: Car Pool to Work
Some companies offer discounts to motorists who drive a lower than average number of miles a year. Low mileage discounts can also apply to drivers who car pool to work.
Last update on 23. May 2019 by Blair Winans.
Tip #7: Renovating? Check Your Insurance
If you're having work done on your home, you'll need to make sure your home insurance covers the newly assessed value. It's likely not a big change in your annual premium, but could make a huge difference should accidental damage occur.
Last update on 23. May 2019 by Blair Winans.
Tip #8: Good Students Get Discounts
Companies offer discounts to policyholders who have not had any accidents or moving violations for a number of years. You may also get a discount if you take a defensive driving course. If there is a young driver on the policy who is a good student, has taken a driver education course or is at a college out of the area without a car, you may also qualify for a lower rate.
Last update on 21. May 2019 by Blair Winans.