Tightwads Tips for Saving on Payson Auto Insurance

I can't think of a single person who likes having to buy auto insurance, particularly when their premiums are through the roof.

Drivers have multiple to pick from, and even though it's nice to have multiple companies, it can be more challenging to compare rates.

It's important to compare prices periodically because prices are constantly changing. Despite the fact that you may have had the lowest rates a year ago a different company probably has better rates today. Starting now, forget anything you know (or think you know) about auto insurance because you're going to get a crash course in the tricks you need to know to find lower rates on auto insurance.

Don't pay full price with these discounts

The cost of insuring your cars can be expensive, but you can get discounts to cut the cost considerably. Larger premium reductions will be automatically applied when you quote, but lesser-known reductions have to be specifically requested before you get the savings.

Save with a New Car - Insuring a new car is cheaper compared to insuring an older model.
Good Student - Performing well in school can save 20 to 25%. This discount can apply well after school through age 25.
College Student - Children who attend school more than 100 miles from home and do not have access to a covered vehicle may be able to be covered for less.
Discount for Life Insurance - Some companies give a discount if you purchase life insurance from them.
Sign Online - Some insurance companies may give you up to $50 just for signing your application over the internet.

It's important to note that most credits do not apply to the entire policy premium. A few only apply to the cost of specific coverages such as liability, collision or medical payments. So even though they make it sound like you would end up receiving a 100% discount, you're out of luck. But any discount will bring down your premiums.

Good Decisions Result in Lower Rates

Smart consumers have a good feel for some of the elements that help determine the rates you pay for auto insurance. Knowing what influences your rates enables informed choices that may reward you with better auto insurance rates.

The following are a few of the "ingredients" auto insurance companies consider when setting rates.

Older drivers pay less - Youthful drivers in Utah are known to be more careless behind the wheel so they pay higher auto insurance rates. Adding a youthful driver to your auto insurance policy can really hurt. Older drivers are viewed as being more responsible, tend to cause fewer accidents and tend to be better behind the wheel.
Cautious drivers pay less - Careful drivers receive lower rates compared to drivers with tickets. Just one speeding ticket can boost insurance rates twenty percent or more. Drivers who have flagrant citations like reckless driving, hit and run or driving under the influence may need to file a proof of financial responsibility form (SR-22) to the state department of motor vehicles in order to keep their license.
More miles equals more premium - Driving more miles each year the more you will pay for auto insurance. Most insurance companies charge to insure your cars based on their usage. Vehicles that are left in the garage qualify for better rates as compared to vehicles used primarily for driving to work. Verify your auto insurance coverage shows the proper vehicle usage.
Marriage brings a discount - Having a spouse can get you a discount when buying auto insurance. It means you're more mature and it's statistically proven that married couples file fewer claims.

Your personal situation dictates your coverage

When it comes to buying adequate coverage for your vehicles, there isn't really a perfect coverage plan. Each situation is unique and a cookie cutter policy won't apply. Here are some questions about coverages that may help highlight whether or not you would benefit from professional advice.

Should I file a claim if it's only slightly more than my deductible?
Do I need to file an SR-22 for a DUI in Utah?
Do I pay less if my vehicle is kept in my garage?
What are the financial responsibility laws in Utah?
Does my liability insurance cover pulling a trailer or camper?
Are rental cars covered under my policy?

If you don't know the answers to these questions but you think they might apply to your situation, you may need to chat with a licensed insurance agent. To find an agent in your area, complete this form or you can go here for a list of companies in your area.

The auto insurance bait and switch

Auto insurance companies such as Progressive, GEICO, Allstate and State Farm continually stream ads in print and on television. They all seem to say the same thing that you can save after switching to their company. How does each company claim to save you money?

Different companies have a certain "appetite" for the driver that earns them a profit. For example, a desirable insured might be a mature driver, a clean driving record, and has excellent credit. A customer getting a price quote who fits that profile receives the best rates and therefore will save when switching.

Drivers who don't measure up to these standards will have to pay a higher premium which usually ends up with the customer not buying. Company advertisements say "people who switch" not "everyone that quotes" save that much. That is how insurance companies can make those claims.

Because of the profiling, drivers should get as many quotes as possible. It's impossible to know which company will have the lowest rates.

More information can be found on the website for the Utah Insurance Department through this link. Visitors are able to read enforcement actions against agents and companies, file complaints about a company, file complaints about an insurance agent or broker, and get help finding coverage.

Also read more on Auto Insurance 101 and this page where you can research Payson insurance agents.

The best insurance company isn't always the cheapest

While you're price shopping online, make sure you don't skimp on coverage in order to save money. There are many occasions where someone dropped uninsured motorist or liability limits only to regret they didn't purchase enough coverage. Your aim should be to buy enough coverage at an affordable rate.

We covered a lot of information how to reduce auto insurance prices online. The most important thing to understand is the more times you quote, the better your chances of lowering your rates. You may be surprised to find that the best price on auto insurance is with a company that doesn't do a lot of advertising. Regional companies often have lower prices on specific markets as compared to the big name companies such as .

Lower-priced auto insurance can be bought both online and also from your neighborhood Payson agents, and you need to price shop both to have the best selection. Some companies may not provide you the ability to get quotes online and most of the time these regional insurance providers sell through independent agents.