Auto Insurance: Are You Paying Too Much? How to Save Money.

by Your Portland Financial Advisor on 05/26/2009

Auto insurance is important.  It’s also important to get the best value at the lowest price.  A variety of options exist to help you lower your auto premiums.  You can start with the car itself.  Do some research before buying a new car; you may be surprised by the rate differences between models.  A high-performance car such as a Ford Mustang costs more to insure than a Ford Taurus with the same driver. 

Call your financial representative when you begin car shopping.  He or she can provide you with information on rates for models in which you’re interested.

Discounts

Ask Your Portland Financial Advisor about discounts available at various stages in life.  You may be able to save money when you get married or graduate from college. 

If you have student drivers in your house, they can help lower their premiums by maintaining high grades.  Many insurance companies offer good student discounts.

Using one company for all of your insurance needs may also save you money.  Some insurance companies offer discounts if you insure more than one car with them, or if you insure your car and home.  Some companies even offer auto discounts if you have both auto and life insurance with them.

Coverage

If the cost of a minor accident exceeds the value of your vehicle, you may consider dropping the collision coverage on your auto insurance policy.  Collision coverage is needed to repair your car if you are involved in an accident. 

Also, you can reduce your premiums by raising your deductible.  However, you need to be sure you can afford the higher deductible if you ever need to file a claim.

Drive Safely

A clean driving record is key to holding down your insurance costs.  Some companies offer additional discounts if no one in your household has received any traffic violations.

Drive defensively to avoid accidents.  Be aware your surroundings and expect other drivers to make mistakes.

To determine if you are getting the best auto insurance value, talk with Your Portland Financial Advisor.

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