It pays to be aware of all the discounts and freebies available around you these days. And in order to get a good rate on your auto insurance premium, you need to do your homework. Try to find out the discounts and offers being given by the various insurance companies in your area and try to fall under one of the categories.
Academic background: If you are a full time student in school, you can get a very good discount under the ‘good student’ scheme. you will fall under this category if you manage to maintain your grades above or at an average of B. this is also to your benefit, as you will end up with better prospects given your high grade in school. other benefits are available if you are enrolled in a four year college degree program or in grad school.
Your occupation or membership in professional organizations: A lot of insurance companies offer freebies for government employees, National Guard or the military service men, members of organizations like the AAA and teachers.
Pay your bills on time: It is very important to maintain a good credit score. you can do this by paying your bills on time and ensuring that you do not have a lot on your credit account. Always live within your budget and try not to overspend. And do try paying your premium in a lump sum, this will impress the insurance company. You can also increase your deductible and get a large decrease on your premium rates.
Type of car and frequency of use: The lesser you use your car, the lesser is the chance of you meeting with an accident. it is simple risk analysis. So if you are going to be doing just 5000 miles a year, you can easily qualify for a discount from your insurance company. And the safer your car is, the better the discounts. Try to get a car which has safety features like airbags, anti lock braking system and electronic stability program integrated with the chassis.
Other factors: You can also get a lot of discounts by getting your car insurance from the same company that provides your home insurance, or you could get your VIN etched on the windows of your car; which will discourage theft, and hence reduce your fire and theft policy costs. You can also get good offers if you stay in a locality that is safer and less congested with traffic.
How many of those discount qualifications do you already have? And which ones can you work on? Try to sit down and make an analysis. Your lucky if you have even half of them. There are a lot more criteria that can help you get your discounts. When you meet with your agent, ask him to let you know about them. Every insurance company has a different policy. Try to find out and get yourself in one or the other of the categories.
Of course, once you figure out what discounts you are entitled to, search for car insurance quotes with Insuriffic.com.