You’ve probably heard insurance companies claim they can save you hundreds of dollars if you would only go online to request your free quote. Intrigued, perhaps you completed a 15-minute form only to find premiums that were far more than what you had hoped for. If so, you are not alone.
Fortunately, you do not have to settle for inflated premiums. In fact, there are several ways you may be able to lower your online car insurance quote in just 30 days. Continue reading to find out how.
Take a Driver Safety Course
If you can find the time to take an accredited driver safety course sometime in the next month, you could benefit from significant savings. Driver safety courses help you refresh your skills behind the wheel, which is ultimately meant to make you a safer driver. Insurance companies often reward voluntary driver safety course participation by offering additional discounts of up to 10 percent or more on coverage.
Track Your Mileage
How much are you actually driving your vehicle each month? If you are not sure, take a month to write down your daily mileage. Keep the information handy so when the time comes to request your online car insurance quote or review it with an independent agent. Though each insurance company’s definition of low mileage varies, drivers who clock fewer than 10,000 miles per year often qualify for extra discounts.
Pay Off Your Debt
Debt may seem like a personal finance issue that has nothing to do with your driving risk, but insurance companies see things differently. Based on consumer data, insurers have determined that your credit profile can help estimate your likeliness of filing a claim. If you are carrying extra debt, it could be weighing down your insurance scores. By paying off consumer credit cards and other unsecured debts, you may be able to raise your credit score enough to lower your online car insurance quotes in just one billing cycle, which is usually about 30 days.
Install an Anti-Theft Device
If you own a late-model vehicle, chances are your car already comes equipped with an anti-theft alarm system. However, the addition of other anti-theft mechanisms could further lower your online car insurance quotes. For example, you could have your vehicle’s VIN etched onto the windshield or window glass of your car, or you could have a fuel or ignition cutoff switch installed. These features help deter thieves and also aid in the recovery of your vehicle if it is stolen.
Combine All Car Insurance Policies Within Your Household
Never underestimate the power of a multi-car discount. Combining coverage means spreading out your risk and providing more business for a single insurer. In exchange, many insurance agencies are happy to reduce premiums by as much as 15 to 20 percent compared to what it would cost to insure each vehicle on a separate policy.
Ask for a Homeowner’s Insurance Quote at the Same Time as Your Auto Quote
Like multiple vehicles on the same policy, having multiple lines of coverage with the same insurer also spreads out the risk. Many people qualify for multi-line discounts by purchasing their homeowner’s insurance from the same insurance company as their auto insurance. Don’t worry if you don’t own a home. Multi-line discounts are also available when you combine your auto insurance with condo, renters, or townhouse coverage.
Schedule a One-on-One with Your Agent
Once you have requested your online car insurance quote, contact your independent agent to find out when you can review your options. A professional can help lead you toward the insurance company and policy that provides the most appropriate solutions to fit your individual needs.
