Don’t people who are constantly gloating about how cheap they managed to buy this, that or the other just make you sick? They’re the poster children for the auto insurance industry-drivers that are paying rock bottom rates for their coverage. These are America’s most hated consumers, and the country’s most valuable teachers. Why?
Because they can teach you how to haggle down your auto insurance rates.
Wait. You can haggle about your auto insurance rates? Why didn’t anyone mention this before?!?! Well, see, you have to look at the broad definition of the word “haggle” here. This isn’t one of those situations where you’re going to be able to call up a couple of carriers and get a collection of auto insurance quotes, then say, “No, I don’t want to pay that much. But I’ll give you this much.”
You’re going to be quickly introduced to the multiple ways you can be hung up on if you even try.
Haggling about your auto insurance rates is more a matter of knowing what can save you money on your coverage and acting on it. You see, when you first buy an insurance policy you usually get the short story about your rates. They’ll ask about the distance you drive and what, exactly, you use your car for. Agents have access to a database that shows them the manufacturer’s safety features, and they’ll confirm those with you. They’ll get your address and take a look at your driving record, then they tell you how much your insurance is going to cost.
This is all well and good, but it definitely doesn’t cover everything! For example, did you know that engineers and teachers are statistically less likely to be involved in car accidents each year and, as a result, pay less for their coverage? Or that you can install a GPS locator system or fuel switch and knock 10% off your coverage in the blink of an eye? These are questions that your agent isn’t going to ask, and if you don’t let them know you’re going to end up paying way too much for your insurance!
So what else can save you money on your insurance?
1) Your job.
2) Your location.
3) What kind of car you have.
4) How high your deductibles are.
5) How much coverage you have.
6) Whether you carry multiple policies with that company (for example, insuring your home and your car with the same provider).
7) Your age.
8) Where you park your car at night. (Do you have a garage? Knock off some more money, because you’re seriously knocking down the chances that your car will be stolen or vandalized.)
It’s amazing what can help you save money on auto insurance these days, and as long as you know that you’re going to be in a prime position to get a great deal-and be King of the Lab when you’re talking about your insurance rates.
