5 Car Insurance Discounts You Should Know About [Slideshow]

Are you taking advantage of every car insurance discount available? From squeaky clean driving records to having multiple cars in your household, discounts can equal big savings on your car insurance premiums.

 

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Safe Driver Discount

Gotten a speeding ticket lately? Getting a moving violation or being ticketed for an at-fault accident can muck up your driving history and ruin your eligibility for the safe driver discount.

That’s because your car insurance company determines how likely you are to file a claim based on your driving record. Your state’s department of motor vehicles keeps a detailed record of car accidents, moving violations, vehicular criminal convictions, and other relevant information. If you’re deemed risky business, then you’ll pay a higher premium.

On the other hand, when your driving record is squeaky clean, you’ll pay less. So, being a safe driver is an easy way to save money on car insurance.

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Safe Vehicle Discount

When it comes to saving money on car insurance, the car you drive is almost as important as your driving history. Did you know that insurance companies estimate the likelihood of your future claims based on your vehicle?

It’s cheaper to insure a family-friendly minivan than a racy sports car. However, no matter what car you choose, most insurers offer a discount if it has safety features. These include air bags, anti-lock brakes, and anti-theft devices.

Before you get your next set of wheels, consider how having modern safety features can protect you and reduce the cost of your car insurance.

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Driver Education Discount

No matter if you consider yourself the world’s best driver, your car insurance company knows most drivers could use some help. That’s why most carriers offer a discount for completing a driver’s education or defensive driving course.

You’ll learn basic traffic laws for the state where you live and improve your driving skills. A defensive driver can anticipate potential car crashes before it’s too late and make smart choices based on road conditions.

Taking a defensive driving course can also result in a reduction of “points” on your driving record, which scrubs some bad history. It’s a great opportunity to become an even better driver and save money on car insurance.

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Low Mileage Discount

Is your car parked more than it’s on the road? If you don’t drive many miles, you’re less likely to get into a car accident. That makes you less risky to an insurance carrier and usually comes with a low mileage discount.

Some insurance companies give bigger rate cuts if you install a device in your car that monitors your driving habits. Although you give up some privacy with these “pay-as-you-drive” programs, the savings could be substantial.

Explore ways to reduce your mileage, like riding a bike, taking public transportation, or carpooling with co-workers. And be sure to let your insurance company know if you start driving fewer miles.

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Multi-Car Discount

While being a safe driver is important, some savings are much easier to snag. You can cut the cost of car insurance by simply giving your car insurer more business.

If you have more than one vehicle in your household, having all of them insured with the same insurer makes you eligible for the multi-car discount. Each one must be in your name and driven either by you or listed family members.

In some cases, this discount even may apply to other types of vehicles, such as motorcycles, boats, and recreational vehicles.

Looking for more discounts? Be sure to ask your car insurance company how to maximize your savings without sacrificing the coverage you need to stay safe.