5 Helpful Tips For Keeping Your Auto Insurance Premium In Line

One of the biggest expenses is when you own a car is car insurance. Luckily, there are easy things that you can do every year to help make sure your auto insurance premium is at a reasonable rate.

#1: Check Your Rates Once a Year

First, at least once a year, check and see what auto insurance rates different providers will offer you. This is easier to do than ever before. There are tools you can online to compare potential insurance of premiums among various insurance providers easily.

With these tools, you will get an email message from an agent with an insurance quote. You don't have to switch insurance providers every year, but shopping around once a year is a great way to make sure that you are getting the best possible rate and that you're not overpaying for your insurance.

#2: Review Your Coverage

Second, each year you should review exactly what coverage you are paying for. Ensure that your liability coverage for both property damage and bodily injury is large enough to cover you if you get into an accident. Often, state liability limits are less than you would need if you were to have a costly claim.

Review extras on your insurance policy as well. For example, you may not need rental reimbursement coverage if you have a backup vehicle to drive should one of your vehicles be damaged in an accident. Or if you belong to an auto club and you already have roadside assistance, you may not need it on your insurance policy as well. Don't pay for extras that you don't need. Make sure you also have enough liability protection, medical payment coverage, and personal injury protection.

#3: Be Smart About Your Deductible

Third, be smart about your deductible. The amount you choose for your deductible can significantly reduce or increase your premium.

Your deductible is more about your overall financial situation. You want to choose a deductible that you could reasonably pay today if you were to get into an accident. If you have the financial savings to do so, it is generally better to go with a higher deductible over a lower deductible, as this will save you on your yearly premium costs.

#4: Check Your Discounts

Make sure that you are getting all the discounts that you qualify for. Ensure you are getting discounts for the safety equipment on your car and any anti-theft device you have.

If you have a great driving record, make sure you're getting credit for that. If you have taken a defensive driving course, you may also get a discount for that. Remember to check and see if you belong to any affinity groups that could allow you to get an additional discount on your insurance.

#5: Use a Qualify Insurance Provider

Finally, you can save money by working with a qualified insurance provider. Always research and find out the customer satisfaction history of an insurance provider. If you get into an accident, you want to be working with an insurance provider that will help you easily and quickly work through your claim.

You can keep your auto insurance premium in line by checking around and seeing if you were getting the best possible rates each year. You can also keep your auto insurance premium in line by being smart about your deductible, making sure you get all discounts you qualify for, and by making sure you have the right coverage.