When insurance companies sign up new members, they’re not just adding new people to their rosters. They’re also adding a vast array of different cars, different safety features, and different driving records. This means there’s a range of risk involved, which is why costs for car insurance vary.
Insurance companies set rates based on perceived risk. Take age: a new driver at 16 years old will have less experience on the road than a driver who is 50 years old and has been driving for three decades, which means the risk of a young driver is potentially higher.
The type of car matters too. Not many of us would pass up the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a shiny sports car, but as flashy as they can be, their expense drives up rates. Not only would they be more expensive to replace if they got in an accident, but they are also more prone to being stolen. Older vehicles, which are much cheaper to buy upfront, may also be at greater risk of being stolen due to less stringent security features.
While it’s hard to change your age, and even harder to change your love of sports cars, there are some things you can do to help become a safer driver and also save yourself on insurance costs.
First, your history of what you do behind the wheel is an indication of your risk as a driver. If you’re a safe driver, avoid speeding tickets, and keep your hands off the phone while commuting, you’re going to have a better premium (and a safer lifestyle).
If you’ve received traffic violations before, you might be able to take classes to show that you’re working on improving your driving safety. Check with an insurance agent to see what might be best for you.
Have you ever had a faulty car alarm that wouldn’t stop beeping in the middle of the night, and you were tempted to just cut the cord? Take the time to get it checked. Your car and your insurance will thank you.
Cars with certain safety features come with less risk. Some safety features that help protect you and your car are air bags, automatic seat belts, anti-theft devices, automatic daytime running lamps, and anti-lock brakes. Discounts are great, but your safety is the best reward here.
Are you often sitting in hours of traffic, inching along the highway to get to work or school? It’s probably not the most enjoyable experience, for yourself or your car insurance rates. Long commute times means you’re on the road more, increasing your risk as a driver.
Consider ways you might reduce your commute time, whether that’s working from home a few days a week, carpooling, or taking public transportation. Many insurance companies provide discounts if the distance you drive is lower than average.
Check with a Sea Mountain Auto Insurance specialist to learn more about car insurance options that work for you.
