 There are many factors that auto insurance companies take into consideration when determining your auto insurance premium. The way in which you meet these criteria can have a positive or negative impact on the amount you pay. Some of these factors are you the driver, your driving record, credit rating, where you live, type of automobile, and your annual mileage. While there are other criteria that may help to reduce your rates, these are the standard qualifications that are considered when formulating your auto insurance premium.
You the driver:
Many things about you that you can not control will affect your insurance premium. These things include your years of driving experience, gender, and marital status. For example, male drivers with limited experience will pay higher rates due their increased likelihood of becoming involved in an accident.
Driving Record:
Auto insurance premiums are based upon the costs to cover future claims and your statistical risk; which is based on past accidents, traffic violations and years of driving experience. If you have a history of accidents and traffic violations, you are much more likely to pay higher auto insurance premiums. Also, new drivers will likely pay higher premiums as they have not yet established a good driving record.
Where you live:
Where you live plays an important role in determining your auto insurance premiums. Most insurance companies will base this upon your zip code. They have formulas which calculate the risk of accidents within a given area based on traffic volume, which is usually higher in urban areas, and vehicle theft and vandalism statistics. The California Department of Insurance has recently mandated new regulations that will decrease the significance of where you live, but it is still a factor.
Your Vehicle:
The type of vehicle you own also can help or hurt your insurance premiums. One thing to take into consideration when purchasing a new car is the price of repairs. If parts are generally more expensive, then it is likely your rates will be higher. Having a vehicle with certain safety features; such as anti-theft devices, good crash test ratings and low theft reports, can help to reduce your insurance premiums.
Where you drive:
When applying for a policy you are required to state your annual mileage. The more you drive, the higher your insurance premium. Since you are on the road longer, your chance of being involved in an accident is greater.Â
This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverages 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.
