How to save a wad on auto insurance

Owning a vehicle seems to involve being on a never-ending treadmill of paying out for one thing or another. From garage bills to gasoline, drivers constantly find themselves under financial pressure for the privilege of being able to use highways and byways. But, if you’ll pardon the pun, there’s light at the end of the tunnel if you’re sick of paying too much for auto insurance.

Follow these simple steps to start making a difference to your insurance premium.

Become a better driver We’re all guilty from time to time of being reckless behind the wheel, but it’s never too late to change our attitudes to driving. Stay calm and composed and you’ll lower the chances of being in an accident and having to make an insurance claim. By avoiding harsh accelerating and braking and sticking to speed limits you can also reduce the damage you’re doing under the hood, which should, in turn, reduce the likelihood of having to book your motor into the garage on a regular basis.

Be a fussy shopper Approach as many different companies as you can to ensure that you’re getting the best deal available at any given time. Talk to whoever you have homeowner’s insurance with and see if you can get some kind of discount if you also take out an auto insurance policy with them as well. Paying in full rather than every month could shave a few more dollars off.

Don’t be nervous about having a look under the hood every now and again to make sure all the relevant fluid levels are as they should be. Check the tread on your tires and keep them inflated to the recommended pressure, as it improves safety and will impact on how much gasoline your motor guzzles. The more you take care of your car, the less it should cost you in garage bills.

Arm your motor Having an alarm or immobilizer on your vehicle has obvious benefits. Not only will it hopefully deter a potential car thief, give you peace of mind and protect your pride and joy, it can also lower the price of auto insurance, so be sure to ask your insurance agent to see what you can do to help yourself. Where you park your vehicle at night may prove important as well, so, if possible, leave it in your garage overnight or on your drive and not on the side of the road.

Reduce your usage The fewer kilometres you’re clocking up, the cheaper it’ll be in general as a motorist – it really is that straightforward. So try and think about how much you use your vehicle and if there are any ways you can cut back and possibly walk instead, if, of course, it’s practical to do so.

Raise your deductibles This may seem risky in the short term as it means you’ll have to pay more, should you have to make a claim, but there’s a fair chance that it’ll lower your auto insurance significantly.