Mchenry Auto Insurance For Less Than You're Paying Now

Are you overwhelmed by the number of auto insurance choices in Mchenry? You're not alone. Drivers have so many companies to choose from that it can turn into a real challenge to compare prices.

Buying the cheapest protection in Mchenry is simple if you know the tricks. Basically, every driver who has to buy auto insurance will most likely be able to save money. Nevertheless, Illinois vehicle owners do need to know how big insurance companies price insurance differently and take advantage of how the system works.

Understand what determines the rate you pay

Consumers need to have an understanding of some of the elements that help determine auto insurance rates. When you know what positively or negatively determines base rates helps enable you to make changes that will entitle you to big savings.

  • Lower rates with optional equipment - Choosing a vehicle that has an advanced theft prevention system can help lower your rates. Theft prevention features like vehicle immobilizer systems, General Motors OnStar and LoJack tracking systems can thwart your car from being stolen.
  • Do you need the policy add-ons? - There are a ton of extra coverages that can waste your money if you aren't careful. Things like roadside assistance, accident forgiveness and membership fees are examples of these. They may seem good at first, but your needs may have changed so remove them from your policy.
  • More people means more accidents - Choosing to live in less populated areas can save you money when buying auto insurance. City drivers regularly have traffic congestion and much longer commute distances. Fewer drivers means reduced accidents and also fewer theft and vandalism claims.
  • More than one policy can earn a discount - Many companies provide better rates to people who carry more than one policy, otherwise known as a multi-policy discount. If you currently are using one company, you may still want to comparison shop to confirm you are receiving the best rates possible. You may still find a better deal by buying auto insurance from a different company.
  • Never go without insurance - Allowing your auto insurance policy to lapse will be a fast way to bump up your auto insurance costs. Not only will you pay more, getting caught without coverage might get you a steep fine or even jail time.You may need to submit proof of financial responsibility or a SR-22 with the Illinois department of motor vehicles.
  • Do you have a high stress job? - Did you know your auto insurance rates can be affected by your occupation? Careers like doctors, architects and stock brokers are shown to have the highest rates attributed to job stress and lots of time spent at work. On the other hand, professions such as actors, students and performers pay the least.
  • The more you drive the more you pay - Driving more miles in a year the higher your rate. The majority of insurers price each vehicle's coverage determined by how the vehicle is used. Vehicles not used for work or commuting can get a lower rate than those used for commuting. Ask your agent if your auto insurance coverage properly reflects the proper vehicle usage, because it can save money.

compare Mchenry auto insurance rates

Save big with these discounts

Insuring your fleet can be pricey, but companies offer discounts to reduce the price significantly. A few discounts will automatically apply at quote time, but some must be inquired about in order for you to get them.

  • Driver's Ed - Cut your cost by having your teen driver successfully complete driver's ed class if it's offered in school.
  • Driver Safety - Taking part in a course teaching defensive driving skills could possibly earn you a 5% discount if your company offers it.
  • Multiple Policy Discount - If you insure your home and vehicles with the same company you may save approximately 10% to 15%.
  • Use Seat Belts - Using a seat belt and requiring all passengers to buckle their seat belts could cut 10% or more on the medical payments or PIP coverage costs.
  • Discount for Life Insurance - Larger companies have a break if you buy auto and life insurance together.
  • Organization Discounts - Affiliation with a professional or civic organization could qualify you for a break when shopping for auto insurance.
  • Multiple Vehicles - Insuring multiple vehicles with the same company could earn a price break for each car.

It's important to understand that most credits do not apply the the whole policy. A few only apply to the cost of specific coverages such as liability and collision coverage. So despite the fact that it appears all those discounts means the company will pay you, it doesn't quite work that way. Any qualifying discounts will help reduce your overall premium however.

To choose insurance companies who offer auto insurance discounts in Illinois, follow this link.

Auto insurance ads bend the truth

Auto insurance providers like State Farm, Allstate and GEICO continually stream ads on TV and radio. They all say the same thing of big savings after switching your policy. But how can every company say the same thing?

All the different companies are able to cherry pick for the right customer that makes them money. An example of a driver they prefer might be profiled as between 30 and 50, has no tickets, and has great credit. A propective insured who fits that profile receives the best rates and most likely will save a lot of money.

Potential insureds who fall outside this ideal profile will be quoted more money which usually ends up with business not being written. Company advertisements say "people who switch" not "people who quote" save that kind of money. That's the way insurance companies can confidently advertise the savings.

This emphasizes why you should get as many comparisons as possible. It's not possible to predict which auto insurance company will fit your personal profile best.

Find out more about auto insurance

Additional auto insurance information is available on the Illinois Department of Insurance website through this link. Illinois drivers can view a list of available companies, discover disciplinary actions, and view agent and company licensing information.

Other informative sites include this site for auto insurance rates in Illinois and this list of insurance agents in Mchenry, IL.

auto insurance in Mchenry

Do the work, save more money

Consumers change insurance companies for many reasons like extreme rates for teen drivers, delays in responding to claim requests, policy non-renewal or even being labeled a high risk driver. Whatever your reason, finding the right auto insurance provider is easier than you think.

Low-cost auto insurance can be purchased on the web in addition to many Mchenry insurance agents, so compare prices from both in order to have the best chance of saving money. There are still a few companies who do not provide online price quotes and these smaller companies work with independent agents.

When you buy insurance online, do not buy poor coverage just to save money. There have been many situations where an insured dropped liability limits or collision coverage only to find out that the few dollars in savings costed them thousands. The proper strategy is to buy enough coverage at an affordable rate while still protecting your assets.