Auto insurance is required to protect you financially while driving. Whether you have full auto coverage or basic liability insurance, you must ensure you get the best value for your money. And, just as you look for ways to save money on other purchases, you can look for ways to save money on car insurance. While some of the risk factors used by insurers are beyond your control, you can have control over some factors that influence the insurance cost.
In addition, you should consider using a car insurance calculator, which is a free tool for helping you find the most suitable auto insurance. If you live in the Ontario area of Canada and want to buy or renew your auto insurance, look for the best car insurance calculator Ontario has to offer to help you choose the right policy. The tool will calculate the car insurance rates in Ontario, considering your location, marital status, age, local laws, type of car, and annual mileage.
Below, we’ll share some tips on controlling your auto insurance cost.
Shop Strategically
Whether purchasing insurance for the first time, switching to a new insurer, or renewing coverage, don’t overlook the savings you can get by comparing rates from multiple car insurance companies. The rates for the same coverage can vary significantly between insurance companies, so you won’t know how much you can potentially save if you don’t shop around.
To compare auto insurance coverage and costs, obtain quotes from at least three insurers. To ensure a fair comparison, compare identical policy limits and coverage. Begin by contacting direct-writer insurers, which have their own agents and provide competitive rates. Then, consult with an independent agent to see if they can find a lower rate with a different company. Finally, choose a top-rated insurance company that provides good customer service, fair and fast claim settlements, and advice.
Ditch the Non-Essential Coverage
You might not need all of the policy’s bells and whistles, like car rental coverage or roadside assistance. Examine your insurance policy thoroughly and ask your company to remove anything unnecessary.
On the other hand, you need to ensure enough liability insurance to cover bodily injury and property damage to others in the event of an accident. Even if you don’t have much to protect, get more than the legal minimum. And be an attentive driver. Driving claims or violations can push your rates up. Using a phone while driving can raise your premium by more than 20%.
Look For Auto Insurance Discounts
Aside from bundling discounts, car insurance companies provide other deals too. For example, you could receive a 10% to 15% discount on a new car. Insuring multiple vehicles with the same insurance company can result in savings ranging from 8% to 25%. In addition, if your car has the latest safety features, you may be eligible for a discount.
Being a good driver can get you a discount as well. For instance, if you don’t have an accident or a traffic violation for a certain period, your auto insurance company may give you a discount ranging from 10% to 40%. And did you know that good grades can pay off? Some auto insurers offer discounts varying from 8% to 25% to full-time college or high school students aged 16 to 25 with at least a B average.
Own a Safe Car with Low Repair Costs
The cost of your auto insurance premium is affected by your vehicle’s value, make, and model. In addition, some cars are less expensive to insure than others. For example, an older vehicle will cost less to insure than a luxury or high-performance vehicle. So, consider the type of car you’ll be purchasing when visiting car dealerships in person or online.
Auto insurance companies consider the vehicle type you drive when estimating your coverage and your driving record, age, and other factors. In addition, they consider how likely your car is to be stolen, the repair costs, its safety, and the number of claims made for similar models. The cost of insuring different vehicle models varies among insurers, so you should shop around to find the best coverage and price for your needs.
Wrapping Up
Remember to shop for the best auto insurance companies to find one that meets your budget and coverage requirements. And don’t forget to ask your insurer if any discounts are available to you. Unfortunately, the cost of auto insurance will likely rise in the future. However, there are many things you can do to control the cost. Our tips should get you driving in the right direction.
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