Car Repair Insurance Providers

While a car makes it relatively easier to commute, it normally offers such convenience at a cost. Some of the costs associated with a car include auto insurance costs and maintenance costs. On the car insurance front, the Consumer Federation of America warns consumers not to settle for the first insurance company of agent they come across. Here are some tips that you can use to find the cheapest car insurance quotes.

Car Model

The type of car you drive plays a big role in determining the amount of auto insurance premiums you will be paying in the future. For instance, rates for comprehensive and collision coverage vary depending on car model and year of manufacture. In other words, newer car models will attract higher premiums than older models. In the same note, auto insurance premiums for expensive cars are typically higher in comparison to insurance premiums for relatively inexpensive cars. Therefore, if you are planning to buy a car and cannot afford expensive insurance policies, go for the latter.

Credit History

According to a report published by the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), some insurance companies use credit information to determine the risk level of consumers before selling auto policies to them. However, some states such as Florida, Iowa, Maryland, and Mississippi prohibit insurers from using credit information when underwriting insurance contracts. Nevertheless, it would be wise to pay your bills on time and check your credit report at least once every year. This is to ensure that you do not end up with a bad credit score.

Discounts

Most insurers offer a wide range of discounts to their consumers. For example, a report published by the Insurance Information Institute shows that drivers over the age of 55 who pass a defensive driving test could lower their car insurance premiums by as much as 10%. Insurers also offer discounts to drivers who do not commute long distances to work and drivers with good driving history records. You could also consider pay-as-you-drive discounts pegged to the number of mileage you cover in a year.

Consider State-Run Insurance Programs

Some states such as California run low-cost insurance programs. Statistics published by the Consumer Watchdog show that some of these state-run programs cost as low as $400 per year. However, not all states offer such programs and it is up to you to find out if your home state has set up insurance programs for low-income drivers.

Shop Around

Before you settle for a particular insurer, compare quotes from as many insurance service providers as possible. Narrow this field to about three or four who offer the cheapest auto insurance quotes that suit your needs. Remember to check out your state’s minimum limits for liability insurance coverage. This is important because some insurers require people who buy cars by taking out loans to purchase collision and comprehensive coverage. Such a requirement will definitely increase one’s insurance premium.

When it comes to finding the most affordable vehicle insurance quotes, it is advisable to consider discounts offered by insurers, car model, credit history, state-run insurance programs, as well as compare quotes from different insurers. Remember some insurers sell their policies through agent networks. In such a case, ask family and friends if they can recommend a specific agent.

You can also find the cheapest auto insurance quotes by comparing rates online with the help of !