Port Orchard Car Insurance For Less Than You're Paying Now

Consumers not familiar with shopping for insurance online can find finding low-cost Port Orchard car insurance is harder than they anticipated.

It's important to check car insurance prices occasionally because rates are constantly changing. Even if you think you had the best rates on your last policy a different company probably has better rates today. Don't believe everything you read about car insurance on the web, but we're going to give you some great ways to find cheap car insurance.

Buying car insurance in Port Orchard is easy if you know what you're doing. Basically, everyone who is required by state law to have car insurance stands a good chance to be able to reduce their rates. But Washington car owners do need to know how big insurance companies market insurance on the web.

Take advantage of discounts

Companies offering auto insurance don't necessarily list every available discount very clearly, so the following is a list of some of the more common as well as the least known ways to save on car insurance.

  • Discount for Swiching Early - Some insurance companies reward drivers for switching to them prior to your current policy expiring. The savings is around 10%.
  • Theft Prevention System - Vehicles equipped with anti-theft or alarm systems prevent vehicle theft and will save you 10% or more.
  • Safety Course Discount - Taking part in a driver safety course can save you 5% or more if you qualify.
  • Multi-policy Discount - If you have multiple policies with the same company you may earn approximately 10% to 15%.
  • Good Student - Performing well in school can be rewarded with saving of up to 25%. The good student discount can last up until you turn 25.
  • New Car Discount - Adding a new car to your policy is cheaper due to better safety requirements for new cars.
  • Federal Employees - Active or retired federal employment may qualify you for a discount with certain companies.
  • 55 and Retired - If you qualify as a senior citizen, you may receive reduced rates.
  • Accident Free - Good drivers with no accidents pay less compared to drivers who are more careless.
  • Clubs and Organizations - Belonging to a qualifying organization could trigger savings on your policy.

Drivers should understand that many deductions do not apply to your bottom line cost. Most only cut individual premiums such as medical payments or collision. So when it seems like all those discounts means the company will pay you, companies wouldn't make money that way.

Washington car insurance

What determines how much you pay?

Smart consumers have a good feel for the rating factors that play a part in calculating your car insurance rates. Knowing what controls the rates you pay allows you to make educated decisions that can help you get big savings.

  • How's your driving record? - Good drivers have lower premiums than their less careful counterparts. Only having one ticket can increase rates twenty percent or more. Drivers who get dangerous violations such as DWI, reckless driving or hit and run convictions may be required to file a SR-22 with their state motor vehicle department in order to prevent a license revocation.
  • More than one policy can earn a discount - Some car insurance companies give discounts to policyholders who carry more than one policy in the form of a multi-policy discount. Even though this discount sounds good, you still need to compare other company rates to make sure you are getting the best deal.
  • Policy add-ons can waste money - There are quite a few additional coverages you can purchase on your policy. Coverages for roadside assistance, better glass coverage and motor club memberships may be wasting your money. They may seem like a good idea when you first buy your policy, but if you don't need them eliminate them to save money.
  • Your location affects your rates - Living in less populated areas has it's advantages when it comes to car insurance. Drivers in populated areas tend to have congested traffic and longer commutes to work. Less people living in that area means fewer accidents and a lower car theft rate.

How to know if you need help

When it comes to buying coverage for your vehicles, there isn't really a best way to insure your cars. Coverage needs to be tailored to your specific needs.

These are some specific questions might point out whether your personal situation might need professional guidance.

  • Does my car insurance cover rental cars?
  • Does my personal auto insurance policy cover using my vehicle for business use?
  • Should I rate my vehicle as pleasure use or commute?
  • What are the best liability limits?
  • Why am I required to buy high-risk coverage?
  • Can I still get insurance after a DUI?
  • Why am I required to get a high-risk car insurance policy?

If it's difficult to answer those questions but one or more may apply to you, you may need to chat with an agent. If you want to speak to an agent in your area, take a second and complete this form.

Are car insurance companies telling the truth?

Companies like State Farm and Allstate consistently run ads on TV and radio. All the ads make the same claim that you'll save big if you change to them. How does each company make the same claim?

All the different companies have a certain "appetite" for the type of driver that earns them a profit. A good example of a preferred risk could be between 30 and 50, owns a home, and has great credit. A customer who matches those parameters will qualify for the lowest rates and most likely will save when switching.

Potential customers who don't qualify for these standards will be charged a more expensive rate which leads to business going elsewhere. The ad wording is "customers that switch" not "people who quote" save money. That is how companies can advertise the savings. That is why drivers should get as many quotes as possible. Because you never know which company will fit your personal profile best.

For more Washington car insurance information

More detailed Washington car insurance information can be read at the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner website. Consumers can file complaints about a company, read consumer alerts, and discover disciplinary actions.

Also read more on III.org's auto insurance page and this directory of insurance agents in Port Orchard Washington.

Port Orchard car insurance quote

The best insurance company isn't always the cheapest

We just showed you many ideas to reduce car insurance prices online. It's most important to understand that the more you quote, the higher your chance of finding lower rates. You may be surprised to find that the best prices are with the least-expected company.

When you buy insurance online, make sure you don't skimp on coverage in order to save money. There have been many cases where an insured cut collision coverage and discovered at claim time that the few dollars in savings costed them thousands. Your goal should be to purchase a proper amount of coverage at a price you can afford, not the least amount of coverage.

Budget-conscious car insurance is attainable from both online companies and with local Port Orchard insurance agents, so compare prices from both to have the best rate selection. There are still a few companies who do not offer you the ability to get quotes online and many times these small insurance companies only sell through independent insurance agents.