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

No one in their right mind enjoys paying for auto insurance, in particular when the cost is too high. With consumers having so many auto insurance companies to choose from, it's difficult to locate the cheapest company.

It's important to compare prices occasionally because insurance rates are constantly changing. Just because you found the best rates a couple years back you will most likely find a better rate today. There is a lot of wrong information about auto insurance on the web, but we're going to give you some great ways to put money back in your pocket.

Finding affordable coverage in Irvington is not that difficult. If you have a current auto insurance policy or need new coverage, you can learn to find better prices and possibly find even better coverage. Kentucky consumers only need to know the most effective way to compare company rates over the internet.

Be sure to get all your discounts

Companies that sell car insurance don't necessarily list every available discount very well, so the following is a list of both well-publicized as well as the least known auto insurance savings. If you don't get every credit you qualify for, you are throwing money away.

Anti-lock Brake Discount - Cars that have steering control and anti-lock brakes can reduce accidents and will save you 10% or more.
Anti-theft System - Anti-theft and alarm systems are stolen less frequently and will save you 10% or more.
Accident Forgiveness - Some insurance companies will forgive one accident before your rates go up if you are claim-free for a certain period of time.
Passive Restraint Discount - Vehicles with factory air bags or motorized seat belts can receive discounts of 20% or more.
Low Mileage - Fewer annual miles could qualify for lower rates on the low mileage vehicles.
Driver's Ed - Make teen driver coverage more affordable by requiring them to take driver's ed class if it's offered in school.
Discount for Life Insurance - Companies who offer life insurance give a break if you buy life insurance from them.

A little note about advertised discounts, most credits do not apply to your bottom line cost. Most only apply to individual premiums such as comprehensive or collision. Even though it may seem like you could get a free auto insurance policy, you won't be that lucky.

How do I know if I need professional advice?

When it comes to buying coverage for your vehicles, there really is no one size fits all plan. Everyone's situation is a little different and a cookie cutter policy won't apply. For example, these questions might point out whether or not you would benefit from professional advice.

Can I get a multi-policy discount for packaging my home and auto coverage?
Do I need special endorsements for business use of my vehicle?
Does my policy cover me when driving someone else's vehicle?
Can I rate high risk drivers on liability-only vehicles?
Is my vehicle covered for flood damage?
Am I covered when renting a car or should I buy coverage from the car rental agency?
Are my tools covered if they get stolen from my vehicle?

If you don't know the answers to these questions then you might want to talk to a licensed insurance agent. To find an agent in your area, fill out this quick form or click here for a list of auto insurance companies in your area. It's fast, doesn't cost anything and can help protect your family.

Is there truth in advertising?

Kentucky consumers get pounded daily by advertisements for cheaper car insurance by Allstate and Progressive. All the ads say the same thing about savings after switching to their company.

But how can every company make almost identical claims?

Different companies have a certain "appetite" for the driver that earns them a profit. A good example of a preferred risk could possibly be a mature driver, owns a home, and drives less than 10,000 miles a year. A driver who fits that profile is entitled to the best price and is almost guaranteed to save a lot of money.

Consumers who don't measure up to this ideal profile will be charged higher prices which usually ends up with the driver buying from a lower-cost company. Company advertisements say "customers that switch" but not "drivers who get quotes" save that much. That is how companies can truthfully advertise the way they do. That is why you should get quotes from several different companies. It is impossible to predict which company will provide you with the cheapest rates.

Even more information can be read at the Kentucky Department of Insurance website. Kentucky consumers can find out industry alerts, read consumer alerts, learn about insurance regulations, and file complaints about a company.

Also read more on BankRate.com's Car Insurance: When not to Skimp and this directory of Irvington insurance agents.

Best coverage at the best price

As you go through the steps to switch your coverage, don't be tempted to buy lower coverage limits just to save a few bucks. Too many times, an insured cut full coverage and found out when filing a claim that the savings was not a smart move. The aim is to buy enough coverage at a price you can afford, not the least amount of coverage.

The cheapest auto insurance can be sourced online and also from your neighborhood Irvington agents, and you need to price shop both in order to have the best price selection to choose from. Some auto insurance companies may not provide you the ability to get quotes online and many times these small insurance companies only sell through independent insurance agents.