Many insurance companies have a wide variety of discounts. For example, a defensive driving course can reduce rates by up to 25%. A clean record and safety features like daytime running lights can help drivers lower their rates.
Keeping your car insurance policy up to date and shopping around each renewal are other ways to access discounts.
Maintain a Clean Driving Record
A clean driving record is the simplest way to qualify for safe driver discounts. The definition of a clean record varies between insurers, but most include no at-fault accidents or major traffic violations within the past three to five years. Some offer discounts if you last had any at-fault accidents or tickets in 10 years or more. Other companies, like long-haul trucking insurers, have much stricter standards for what constitutes a clean record and will raise rates after just one or two minor infractions in a short time.
Remember that minor citations can still affect your record, even if they’re not considered major violations (like speeding). Some states allow drivers to fight traffic ticket penalties or take defensive driving courses that may help them clear their records. Request a copy of your driving summary from your state’s DMV if you need clarification on whether your prior citations will remain on your record. Visit https://www.carinsurancecheap.net for more information on the safe driver discount.
Install a Telematics Device
Many insurance providers now offer the option of using telematics devices to monitor driving behavior. These programs usually offer a discount that lasts for the life of your policy in exchange for a brief monitoring period. Some programs use a mobile app or a plug-in device that connects to your car’s onboard diagnostics port (OBD) to track things like hard braking, fast acceleration, phone usage, and late-night driving.
These devices can be a great way to save money on car insurance for good drivers who were previously charged high rates due to age, credit history, or gender. However, you should know that your insurance company can adjust your speed based on their interpretation of the data they collect through the telematics device or mobile app. In addition, many companies need to disclose the specific factors they look for when calculating your risk.
Drive Safely
Many insurance providers offer safe driver discounts to drivers that go a certain number of years without accidents, tickets, or significant comprehensive claims. These can be separate from a usage-based value or offered through a telematics device and app, but whatever the case, they typically save 20% to 30%.
Another way to qualify for a safe driver discount is to take defensive driving lessons from an accredited school. It can get you a 10%-15% reduction on collision, liability, and personal injury or medical expenses coverages.
While many things can affect your auto insurance rates, responsible driving is one of the most impactful factors. A good driver discount can save you hundreds or even thousands in savings over time. Keep driving safely and consider adding accident forgiveness to your policy to avoid an increase if you have an accident. It will also ensure that your good driver discount stays on your policy for as long as possible.
Shop Around
There are many ways to save on car insurance, and it pays to shop around. In addition to adjusting your coverage options, keeping a clean driving record, and opting for usage-based insurance, you can save money by choosing a higher deductible.
Lastly, remember to ask about discounts that may be available for your specific vehicle. For example, some insurers offer discounts for drivers who own cars made in 1994 or later with airbags and automatic seatbelts.
In addition, some insurance companies offer discounts for being an early shopper, buying online, or going paperless. If you’ve taken a defensive driving course, joined a professional organization, or moved to a less-populated area, it might be worth letting your insurance company know so they can adjust your rates accordingly. You can save money by switching providers altogether.