Finding Low-Cost Granite Bay Auto Insurance

I can't think of a single person who likes having to buy auto insurance, in particular when their premiums are too high.

With so many auto insurance companies to choose from, it is very difficult to locate the lowest cost car insurance company.

Be sure to get all your discounts

Companies that sell car insurance don't always publicize every discount very well, so we researched both well-publicized and the more hidden ways to save on auto insurance.

  • Federal Employees - Active or retired federal employment can earn a discount up to 10% with a few auto insurance companies.
  • Multiple Policy Discount - If you have multiple policies with one company you may earn 10% to 20% off each policy.
  • Anti-theft System - Vehicles equipped with anti-theft or alarm systems are stolen less frequently and qualify for as much as a 10% discount.
  • Good Student - Performing well in school can save 20 to 25%. Earning this discount can benefit you up to age 25.
  • Paperwork-free - Some insurance companies will discount your bill up to fifty bucks just for signing your application online.

Keep in mind that most discount credits are not given to your bottom line cost. Most only cut the cost of specific coverages such as comp or med pay. So even though they make it sound like you could get a free auto insurance policy, it just doesn't work that way.

What determines how much you pay?

Smart consumers have a good feel for the rating factors that come into play when calculating the price you pay for auto insurance. When you know what positively or negatively influences your rates allows you to make educated decisions that will entitle you to better auto insurance rates.

The list below includes a partial list of the pieces companies use to determine prices.

  • Small claims can cost you - Companies in California give discounts to drivers who file claims infrequently. If you file claims often, you can pretty much guarantee higher rates. Car insurance is designed for larger claims.
  • Discounts for multiple policies - The majority of auto insurance companies provide better rates to customers who have multiple policies with them, otherwise known as a multi-policy discount. Even with this discount, you may still want to compare other company rates to make sure you are getting the best deal.
  • Lower deductibles cost more - Physical damage deductibles define the amount you are required to spend out-of-pocket in the event of a claim. Physical damage insurance, also known as collision and other-than-collision, protects your car from damage. Examples of covered claims could be running into the backend of another car, vandalism, and burglary. The more you're willing to pay, the lower your rates will be.
  • Discounts for married couples - Having a wife or husband actually saves money on your auto insurance policy. Having a significant other is viewed as being more mature and it's statistically proven that married couples file fewer claims.

How do I know if I need professional advice?

When it comes to buying the best auto insurance coverage for your vehicles, there really is no cookie cutter policy. Each situation is unique so this has to be addressed. For example, these questions might point out whether or not you would benefit from professional advice.

  • Am I covered if I drive in a foreign country?
  • Am I covered when driving in Canada or Mexico?
  • Do I need special endorsements for business use of my vehicle?
  • Do I need to file an SR-22 for a DUI in California?
  • Does my liability insurance cover pulling a trailer or camper?
  • Do I qualify for additional discounts?
  • Are there companies who specialize in insuring high-risk drivers?

If it's difficult to answer those questions but you think they might apply to your situation then you might want to talk to an 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

Is there truth in advertising?

Auto insurance providers like Progressive, Allstate and GEICO regularly use television and radio advertisements. They all make the same claim that you can save if you move to them. But how can every company make almost identical claims?

Different companies have a certain "appetite" for the type of driver that earns them a profit. For instance, a driver they prefer could possibly be a mature driver, owns a home, and has a short commute. A customer getting a price quote who matches those parameters will qualify for the lowest rates and is almost guaranteed to save a lot of money.

Drivers who don't measure up to this ideal profile will be quoted higher premiums which leads to the driver buying from a lower-cost company. The ad wording is "people who switch" but not "drivers who get quotes" save money. That is how insurance companies can make the claims of big savings. This emphasizes why drivers should get quotes from several different companies. It's impossible to know which company will fit your personal profile best.

Additional detailed information is located at the California Department of Insurance website. California consumers can download brochures, read consumer alerts, report car insurance fraud, and get help finding coverage.

Also read more on this online resource for auto insurance quotes in California and this list of insurance agents in Granite Bay.

Granite Bay auto insurance quote

Final considerations

As you shop your coverage around, do not skimp on coverage in order to save money. There are too many instances where an insured cut liability coverage limits only to discover later that saving that couple of dollars actually costed them tens of thousands. Your strategy should be to purchase a proper amount of coverage at an affordable rate while still protecting your assets.

Affordable auto insurance is definitely available online and with local Granite Bay insurance agents, and you need to price shop both to have the best chance of lowering rates. Some insurance providers do not offer you the ability to get quotes online and these small, regional companies work with independent agents.