When you ask a driver about their insurance policy, they likely won’t describe it as “perfect”. Many drivers find that they are paying high rates for limited coverage, but they aren’t sure why.
Before deciding on cheap auto insurance quotes, you need to make sure you have the right coverage for an affordable cost. As a general rule of thumb, just because a policy is the cheapest doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s the best.
In this guide, we’ll discuss how to find the perfect policy that is affordable but still provides you with everything you need.
How to Choose a Reliable Insurance Provider
Review Your Current Policy
If you’re currently signed with an insurance provider that you think is charging too much, it doesn’t mean that you need to cut ties and opt for another company right away.
In fact, most drivers find that their current providers are more willing to negotiate than new providers. This is mostly because companies do not want to lose your business.
For drivers with a positive rapport with their insurance provider, consider working out the fine details of your policy. Are you a safe driver who has yet to see any benefits? Perhaps you’re interested in add-ons that you don’t want to pay for.
It’s best if you are able to talk to an insurance agent in person so you can go over the entirety of your policy. Let them know that if they are unable to offer you a better deal, you are willing to look elsewhere for coverage. You might be able to stay with a provider that you trust but for a more affordable price.
Keep Your Options Open
Even if you have told yourself that you are staying with your current provider, there’s no reason not to shop around. It’s highly recommended that you take the time to look at comparable quotes from other providers in your area. You’ll have a better understanding of what is available from outside companies.
By asking for quotes, you may immediately realize that you qualify for a policy that is much less than what you are currently paying. On top of that, certain providers may have additional discounts for you to use to your advantage.
At the end of the day, you might be able to pay substantially less than what you are paying now.
Modify Your Existing Policy
Analyzing the specific parts of your policy that are most important to you is another way to find inexpensive auto insurance quotes without ever having to switch providers.
When you sign up for your very first insurance package, you might opt for things that aren’t quite necessary. Over time, you’ll learn what types of coverage are most important for your specific situation.
A fantastic example is to increase your deductible, though this is only recommended for financially stable drivers. When you increase your deductible, you’ll lower your premiums, but you will be responsible for paying more out-of-pocket costs in an accident.
Read Customer Reviews
Drivers commonly assume that because insurance policies differ from person to person, as does your experience with an insurance provider. This isn’t always the case, as it’s important to get an idea of the general service offered from specific providers.
You will want to make sure you choose an insurance company that is known to process claims quickly, accurately, and professionally. Their insurance agents should be friendly and willing to fight for you to get the discounts you need.
In addition, insurance agents should be able to handle the claim process and guide you every step of the way.
Cheap Auto Insurance Quotes: Where to Get One
There are heavy-hitters in the insurance industry, such as State Farm, Allstate, Geico, Progressive, and USAA. However, just because they are popular, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they have the best rates for your state.
It’s highly recommended that you figure out which providers are most affordable in your specific area. In general, USAA is known to have the lowest national average annual premiums at approximately $2,537, and Geico is the second cheapest at $3,215.
The other inexpensive providers include:
- State Farm ($3,260)
- American Family ($3,443)
- Nationwide ($3,450)
- Progressive ($4,035)
- Farmers ($4,194)
- Allstate ($4,887)
In addition to choosing the cheapest lenders, consider the benefits that they offer to their drivers. You might find that some providers have discounts for students and others will have discounts for safe drivers.
Drivers can also take advantage of discounted add-ons to their packages to help offset the cost of their premiums.
Improving Your Qualifications
Many drivers aren’t in the position to negotiate with their providers. This could either be because of past accidents or poor credit. In these circumstances, you’ll be responsible for improving your qualifications before you start shopping for quotes.
The most important factors to consider include:
Reliability
One of the best things you can do is to boost the trust that your provider has in you as a driver. With the help of driving classes, such as defensive driving lessons, you can improve your reliability and lower your premiums. Though it’s more of an upfront cost, it will help you to save on your monthly payments.
Credit History
Most states will consider your credit history before signing you as a policyholder. Managing your credit is one of the most recommended ways to lower your premiums. It will also have a positive effect on your personal finances.
Mileage
The amount of time you spend on the roads relates directly to your likelihood of being in an accident. Drivers who tack on a lot of mileage are likely to have higher insurance rates than infrequent drivers.
Consider moving closer to your work or school or carpooling with other drivers to manage your mileage.
Graduated Licenses
Depending on where you live, your state may have a graduated licensing system. For example, obtaining a Learner’s Permit and then having your full license. The closer you are to your full license, the lower your insurance rates will be.
Final Thoughts
Cheap auto insurance quotes are in abundance, especially for safe drivers with great credit. By thinking about what is included in your policy, any eligible discounts, and a little bit of negotiation, you can find the most affordable quotes possible.
Equally as important, you would also want to consider customer reviews when choosing inexpensive providers. Luckily, you can easily find hundreds of reliable reviews online.