As seen in Car & Travel, March 2016
If you want cheaper auto insurance, the best thing you can do is drive responsibly. But if you’re a safe driver, and you want even greater savings, here are 9 ways to save on your auto insurance costs.
1. Take a Defensive Driver Class
Sharpen your driving skills with a six-hour Defensive Driver Class. Those who complete the course can save up to 10 percent on collision, liability and no-fault insurance (plus, drivers can reduce up to four points on their driver’s license). These courses can be found at your local library or on-line. Give Berkely Brokerage Corp a call for more information.
2. Pay Your Premium in Full
Many insurers offer huge incentives for policyholders to pay off their premium in one shot, rather than installments.
3. Pay Higher Deductibles
Your deductible is what you pay before your policy kicks in. And while it might sting to ante up $1,000 for a claim, having higher deductibles can substantially lower the cost of your premium. Just make sure you can swing the payment before you make the change.
4. Combine Home & Auto
Do business with the same insurer for both your home and auto coverage and you could save a pretty penny. Most companies offer substantial multi-policy discounts. Berkely Brokerage Corp. works with many insurance companies who offer this incentive.
5. Avoid Filing Small Claims
While it’s good to get your money’s worth, filing a large number of claims, no matter how small, can hurt you when it comes time to renew your policy. Your insurer could decide to raise your rates or choose not to renew you at all.
6. Maintain a Good Credit Score
It might not seem fair, but your credit score is a factor in how much you pay for auto insurance. That’s because, according to the Insurance Information Institute, research indicates those with better credit scores typically file fewer claims.
7. Have Your Kids Take Driver’s Ed
Any parent of a teen driver knows how expensive it is to insure one. Many companies offer sizable savings for teens who complete driver’s education courses—but know that many do not let you combine driver’s education and defensive driving discounts.
8. Protect Your Car From Thieves
Auto theft is declining in New York (as it is throughout the U.S.) yet insurers still offer discounts for automobiles equipped with anti-theft systems. In New York City, drivers can also register with the NYPD’s Combat Auto Theft program to save money.
9. Shop Around for the Best Deals
Let Berkely Brokerage Corp help you out. If your price goes up, we will look for a provider offering a lower rate—saving you money and bringing you even more peace of mind.
