The #1 way to lower your car insurance premium is to be a good driver with a claims-free driving record. But, accidents happen. Read this quick Q&A to find out what your coverage options are and the many ways you can lower your car insurance premium.
What Is Car Insurance?
Car insurance covers the financial risks associated with driving: bodily injury or property damage to others (liability); personal injury to you and your passengers (PIP); damage to your car when you’re at fault (collision); and theft, fire and severe weather events (comprehensive).
Who Needs Car Insurance?
Anyone driving needs car insurance. In fact, most states require basic coverage. Not only does car insurance protect you from the financial fallout of collisions, theft or damage to you and your car, it also covers the other driver’s medical bills and vehicle damage, if you caused the accident.
When You Should Lower Your Car Insurance
If your car is older or has over 100,000 miles, all you really need is enough car insurance to pay for auto repairs if your car is damaged or to replace it if it is totaled. Dropping your collision and/or comprehensive coverage is one way to lower your car insurance cost.
Is It Better to Have a $500 or $1,000 Deductible?
With a $500 deductible, your car insurance premium is higher, because your insurance company pays more when you file a claim. A $1,000 deductible lowers your car insurance premium but raises your out-of-pocket costs when you make a claim. Tip: Older car, low deductible. Higher value car, high deductible.
Why Do I Have to Pay a Deductible If I Am Not at Fault?
You don’t have to pay a deductible if you are not at fault. However, even if you have collision and uninsured motorist coverage, you may have to pay your deductible before your insurance coverage kicks in. Even a no-fault claim affects your record and may result in a higher premium.
How Do I Get My Deductible Waived?
Get your deductible waived by adding a Collision Deductible Waiver to your car insurance policy. This extra coverage protects you if you are hit by an uninsured driver. CDW does not work for no-fault (icy roads), hit and run (unless driver is found) or single car (backing into a tree) accidents.
How to Lower Your Car Insurance:
Here are 10 ways to lower your car insurance:
- Buy the safest car you can afford.
- Combine car and homeowners insurance.
- Reduce coverage on older vehicles.
- Add theft deterrents.
- Increase your deductible.
- Be careful, drive less.
- Pay your premium annually.
- Maintain good credit.
- Qualify for low-mileage discount.
- Join a group plan.
Summary
Choosing the cheapest car insurance or carrying the bare minimum your state allows doesn’t mean you’re properly covered. That’s why it’s important to work with an insurance advisor who understands the marketplace and is experienced at combining policies to lower insurance costs.
“All it takes is one collision to damage or total your car, or worse, injure you and your passengers or another driver. Medical bills, maybe a lawsuit, loss of transportation – all these stressors add up – even if you weren’t at fault. The cost of inadequate coverage carries a heavy price tag.” ~ Jennifer A. Bishara. Personal Lines Leader
You can count on the car insurance advisors at JAISIN to determine the coverage you need based on your circumstances, shop the market for competing quotes from several carriers and negotiate on your behalf.
Car insurance is a small investment to make for the peace of mind and protection the correct coverage provides. Click or call JAISIN Insurance Solutions today to talk with one of our car insurance advisors and, while you’re at it, ask for a quote.
