How to Know You're Paying Too Much for Auto Insurance in Xenia

I can't think of a single person who looks forward to buying auto insurance, particularly when their premiums are too high.

Drivers have so many to buy insurance from, and although it's a good thing to be able to choose, too many choices makes it more difficult to compare rates.

How to Lower your Auto Insurance Rates

Consumers need to have an understanding of the different types of things that help determine the rates you pay for auto insurance. Knowing what influences your rates empowers consumers to make smart changes that will entitle you to big savings.

More claims means more premium - If you file claims often, you can look forward to higher rates. Companies in Ohio award lower rates to drivers who do not file claims often. Insurance coverage is intended for larger claims.
One company can mean more discounts - Many insurers provide better rates to insureds who consolidate policies with them in the form of a multi-policy discount. Even with this discount, you may still want to comparison shop to verify if the discount is saving money.
With age comes lower rates - Youthful drivers in Ohio are known to be careless and easily distracted behind the wheel so they pay higher auto insurance rates. Adding a teen driver onto a policy can be quite pricey. Older drivers are more cautious drivers, file fewer claims and get fewer tickets.
Pay less after the wedding - Having a wife or husband can get you a discount on your policy. Having a significant other translates into being more mature and it's statistically proven that married couples file fewer claims.

These discounts can lower your rates

Companies don't always list every discount very clearly, so we researched both the well known and the more hidden savings tricks you should be using.

Federal Employees - Employees or retirees of the government may qualify you for a discount with a few auto insurance companies.
Anti-lock Brake System - Vehicles equipped with ABS or steering control can reduce accidents and therefore earn up to a 10% discount.
Distant Student - Kids in college who are attending college and do not have access to a covered vehicle can be insured at a reduced rate.
Paperwork-free - A handful of insurance companies may give you up to $50 just for signing your application over the internet.
Homeowners Savings - Simply owning a home can help you save on auto insurance due to the fact that maintaining a home shows financial diligence.

Keep in mind that most discounts do not apply to your bottom line cost. Some only apply to the cost of specific coverages such as comp or med pay. So even though they make it sound like having all the discounts means you get insurance for free, it just doesn't work that way.

To choose insurance companies who offer auto insurance discounts in Ohio, click here to view.

Are you falling for claims of savings?

Auto insurance providers like Progressive, Allstate and GEICO continually stream ads on television and other media. They all make an identical promise that you can save after switching your coverage to them. How does each company claim to save you money?

All the different companies have a certain "appetite" for the type of customer that makes them money. For instance, a driver they prefer might be a mature driver, owns a home, and drives less than 10,000 miles a year. A customer getting a price quote who meets those qualifications will qualify for the lowest rates and as a result will probably save when switching.

Potential customers who are not a match for these standards will be quoted a more expensive rate and ends up with the customer not buying. The ad wording is "people who switch" not "everybody who quotes" save that much money. That is how insurance companies can advertise the way they do. This emphasizes why you should compare many company's rates. It's impossible to know which company will provide you with the cheapest rates.

Different people need different coverages

When buying the best auto insurance coverage for your vehicles, there isn't really a perfect coverage plan. Each situation is unique so your insurance should reflect that For instance, these questions might point out whether you would benefit from professional advice.

Am I covered if I drive in a foreign country?
Do I need PIP (personal injury protection) coverage in Ohio?
Why does it cost so much to insure a teen driver in Xenia?
Does my liability insurance cover pulling a trailer or camper?
Does my policy cover my teen driver if they drive my company car?
Is rental equipment covered for theft or damage?
Is my dog or cat covered if injured in an accident?

If you're not sure about those questions but you think they might apply to your situation, you may need to chat with an insurance agent. If you want to speak to an agent in your area, complete this form or you can also visit this page to select a carrier

For more Ohio car insurance information

Additional detailed information is located at the Ohio Department of Insurance website. Visitors are able to download brochures, read consumer alerts, read enforcement actions against agents and companies, and get help finding coverage.

Final considerations

As you go through the steps to switch your coverage, it's very important that you do not buy poor coverage just to save money. There are too many instances where an insured cut liability coverage limits only to discover later that the savings was not a smart move. Your strategy should be to get the best coverage possible at an affordable rate while still protecting your assets.

Affordable auto insurance can be bought both online as well as from independent agents in Xenia, and you need to price shop both to have the best rate selection. Some auto insurance companies don't offer online price quotes and these small, regional companies work with independent agents.