When it is time to buy or renew your auto insurance, there are many factors that come into play when determining the rate. Some things you can change, others you can’t. Let’s look at some of these items, so you will know the facts when getting a quote for auto insurance.
Things you can’t Change that affect your rate
Years of Driving Experience: California mandates that auto insurance companies use your years of driving experience as one of the primary rate factors. While most individuals obtain their license at age 16, years of driving experience has replaced age as a major rating factor in California.
Gender – Sorry guys, ladies are statistically safer drivers, so males will pay more than females.
Marriage Status – Married couples tend to have better rates than single people.
Things you can change that affect your rate
Where you live – Certain areas have higher rates because they are more populated, which means you are at a greater risk for an accident. Sometimes living just a few miles “out of town†can save you some money.
Driving Record – If you have a lead foot and have a few speeding tickets, you are going to pay more. Keeping your foot out of the carburetor can save you on insurance and probably on gas!
The type of vehicle you drive – Certain types of cars are more expensive than others to insure. If you drive a hot rod sports car, or one that is an auto thief’s target, you will pay more than you would if you buy a beige sedan.
These are just a few of the things that can affect your insurance rates. When purchasing insurance, check out these items first and see what you can do to modify them. In some cases you may be eligible for discounts if you are a student, or a part of a certain organization, to offset the factors you can not change.
For more information on auto insurance, please contact a qualified representative at AIS Insurance
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.
