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Although low rates may start your process of buying car insurance, they should not be the only factor. Eight things can help supplement your rate research to help you determine which auto insurance is best.
Comparison ShopResearching more than one car insurance company is the only way you’ll know if rates, coverage types, and other perks the companies offer are the best deal for you. Comparison-shopping can save you loads of money, with USA.gov putting the figure as high as several hundred dollars every year.
Know What Factors Affect RatesKnowing what factors go into setting the rates is another handy piece of information when buying insurance. Car insurance companies don’t go by a single factor alone, but instead base the cost of your premium on personal and vehicle information, according to the Indiana Department of Insurance.
Personal information that affects rates includes your age, gender, and marital status. Insurance companies look at driving statistics from various age groups to determine the risk of accidents. Those with a high risk of accidents, such as unmarried young males, will typically see higher rates than more experienced drivers will.
Your driving record generally plays a huge part on your rates. A clean record with no accident or claim history can result in much lower premiums than a spotty record rife with traffic violations.
The amount and type of use your vehicle gets is another factor. Low mileage typically garners lower rates than higher mileage.
Using your car daily for your work commute can cost more than using your car occasionally for pleasure. Using your vehicle for work to make deliveries, haul cargo, or transport passengers can also increase the cost of your insurance.
