Did you know that driving a car is still the most popular mode of transportation? Although this trend seems to be changing as more and more people use alternatives such as public transportation or services such as Uber, Lyft, and others.
But, if you are someone who relies on a personal car, finding vehicle insurance coverage at the best price is probably high on your priority list.
When shopping for automobile insurance there are several items to consider. First, you need to understand the different types of auto insurance so that you can determine what will work best for you. A good first step is to consult with your current insurance agent as they may be able to assist you and help you take advantage of all the available discounts.
While many insurance companies offer competitive rates, you need to redefine your research if you need car insurance for a car you don’t drive that often.
Your first impulse may be to consult with your current insurance company and that is always a great place to start. But you should then look into what other insurance companies have to offer.
Before you begin your research on insurance companies though, you also need to check into your state’s laws. Most states will mandate that you have some type of insurance coverage if you own a vehicle although the minimum requirements may vary from state to state.
Next, you should calculate the miles you drive per year as some insurance companies will offer a discount for low mileage vehicles. If you only drive your car for personal use and don’t commute to work, you could be eligible for lower rates.
If you do commute to work but the distance is less than 10 miles one way, this could make you eligible for a discount as well.
There are even companies that offer pay-as-you-go rates for automobile insurance. This could work well for those who have a second car that isn’t driven often or for people who use public transportation as their primary way to travel.
Some companies will also offer lower rates to car owners over 55 who only drive during daylight hours because it can minimize their risk factors. If you are a multi-car owner some companies may have reduced premiums available.
Another alternative is if you have a second car that is stored most of the time at home or even a storage unit, you may be eligible to get parked car insurance but there are certain requirements and some limitations. This type of insurance only covers certain circumstances such as a tree limb that falls on your car, theft, and vandalism.
While taking all of these circumstances into account, don’t forget that your driving record and your credit score will also affect the price of auto insurance coverage. And, before you pay that automobile insurance premium you should be certain that you have considered all of the options available to you. Do your research and find the coverage that best fits your circumstances.