It can be astonishing how making a few small changes can lead to big results. For example, altering a few settings on your computer can often make it run faster or more efficiently. Adjusting a lamp or other light fixture a couple of inches can substantially brighten a room or work space. And raising the angle of a treadmill just a bit can give you a much better aerobic workout.
The same approach can be taken with regard to your auto insurance policy. There are a number of simple tweaks you can make to your coverage or habits that can result in significant cost savings for you. Here are some of the easiest alterations:
- Raise your deductible. Increasing your $250 deductible to $500 or even $1,000 for one or more of your coverage types can decrease your premiums by a considerable amount.
- Combine your coverage. This is called bundling. Choosing one carrier for your auto, homeowners, and/or other policies may qualify you for discounts on all of these coverages.
- Pay in advance. Â If you can afford to pay half a year’s worth of premiums in one lump sum, you could pay less in fees than you would if you made six monthly payments.
- Eschew the paper. Most insurance firms prefer electronic billing options. So if you’re willing to give up paper statements and sending checks in the mail, you could get a price break on your auto insurance policy.
- Become a member. If you happen to be a member of an automotive, alumni, trade, or occupational group, you could get a nice discount on auto insurance from companies that are affiliated with these organizations.
- Think security. Protect your car by investing in an ignition interlock device, auto alarm, or vehicle locator system. Auto insurers will often cut your premium if you do.
- Don’t drive as much. If you carpool or take public transportation even a day or two per week, it may reduce your annual mileage to where your auto insurance premium would be smaller.
And if you’re willing to put a little extra effort into achieving this goal, here are a few other changes you can make:
- Switch insurers – before your policy expires. Depending on the insurance company and your state,  some insurance companies will give you a tempting discount to change your policy from your old insurer two or three months before the coverage runs out.
- Try usage-based insurance. This is a new trend being tried by some insurance companies. It involves installing a small device under your dashboard to record your driving habits. But if you’re a safe driver, you could pay less for auto insurance than your peers.
Of course, if you think that you’re paying too much for auto insurance now, you may want to see what else is out there in terms of policies. Auto Insurance Specialists can provide you with quotes from multiple insurers within minutes, so you can compare policies side by side without any obligation to buy. Contact AIS Insurance today by visiting their website or calling them toll-free at 888-772-4247.
 
Written by Chris Martin
The information in this article was obtained from various sources. This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements, nor is it intended to replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional. The definitions, terms and coverage in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.
