The average American pays car insurance for his/her whole life. Most people are confused by their car insurance rates and dissatisfied. It is an expense that is both predictable and inevitable. Therefore, it is important to learn about the factors that determine your insurance rates so you can get the best coverage. Insurance rates are affected by many factors.
Age: A study by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2009 found that drivers aged 16-19 are four times more likely than other drivers to be involved in an automobile accident. Young drivers are more likely to be dangerous than others, and their insurance rates can be quite high. This is unfortunate because many young people cannot afford to pay that much due to the demands of their minimum wage jobs or their academics. However, they can ask their insurance company whether discounts are available. Many companies offer discounts for students who have completed a defensive driving course or excel academically. Most drivers can find cheaper car insurance once they are over 25.
Driving record: The driving record is a major factor in determining your insurance rates. This is a sign of your likelihood to file claims or have them made against you. Even minor offenses like speeding tickets can cause your car insurance rates to go through the roof. This defensive driver’s course helps you maintain a clean driving record, which helps you get affordable car insurance quotes and lowers your insurance rates year after year.
State Each state has a different average cost for gas, rent and food. Insurance is no different. Each state has a different rate for car insurance. This is due to many factors such as the population, climate, average accidents per annum, legislation, and many other factors. People who want the minimum amount of insurance they need should be aware that each state has its own minimum requirements. This means that the cost of insurance they purchase will vary from one state to the next. If you reside in Texas, for example, liability coverage for bodily injuries must be at least $30,000 per person and $60,000 per household. Texas car insurance must provide coverage of at least $25000 for property damage. Arizona’s minimum requirements for car insurance are significantly lower. Arizona requires that you purchase liability coverage for $15,000 in bodily injury to one person, $30,000 per incident for all persons injured, and $10,000 for property damage coverage. Keep in mind that your state’s minimum coverage may not provide enough coverage in the event you are involved in an accident. If you don’t have adequate coverage, you could end up paying a lot for injuries, damages, and medical expenses. You should have collision and comprehensive coverage, depending on your state, and uninsured or underinsured motori’s insurance.
Demographics Insurance rates reflect your personal characteristics. Before a prospective company offers you car insurance, they will consider your marital status, age, credit history, and address. The importance of your age has been discussed, but what about the other details? If you live in an area with high levels of crime, vandalism, or natural disasters, your chances of filing claims are higher. Your insurance provider will charge you more car insurance than someone who lives in a retirement community. Keep car insurance rates in your mind as you house hunt. Your marital status, income level, and credit history will give you an indication of your financial stability. This will also affect your insurance rates.
Your car. Car insurance quotes will depend on your make, model, safety features, and condition. Some cars are more expensive than others, and safety features can reduce the chance of injury. Installing safety features such as air bags will make your car insurance more affordable. Some insurance companies even offer discounts for installing air bags.
Deductibles and Premiums: Higher deductibles mean lower premiums. You should make sure that you are able to afford the deductible you choose, rather than increasing it impulsively just to lower your insurance rates.
Insurance Provider Last, insurance rates can vary between providers. One company might offer you a higher car insurance quote than another. Another example is that one company might raise your premiums for the first incident, while another company might have a policy to ignore it. Before making a decision, do your research. You may end up paying a lot more for insurance if you choose the obscure company that offers the lowest rates. Don’t settle for less than a reliable, reputable company that will help you when you need.
