Surprising Things That Can Raise Your Car Insurance Rates

But even though shopping around is important, it is just as important to be aware of some of the surprising factors that can play a role in how much you will need to pay for the coverage you need. From your credit score and work history to the type of car you drive and where you live, there are a number of factors that could save you - or cost you - big bucks on your car insurance.

Many people do not realize that many car insurers factor credit scores, work history and education into their calculations when determining a driver's car insurance rates. The truth is that these factors could significantly affect your rates, so it is important to be an informed insurance consumer. Before you go shopping for car insurance, be sure to pull a copy of your credit report and examine it carefully. If you spot any erroneous information be sure to contact the credit reporting agency at once to have it removed.

If your credit score is low for legitimate reasons, it is a good idea to seek out car insurance companies that do not consider credit history in their premium decisions. There are many companies that proudly advertise the fact that they base premiums only on your driving record, and seeking out such a company could save you a lot of money.

The type of car you drive can also have a significant impact on your car insurance premiums, and it is important to take that fact into account when you are shopping for a new car. Before you sign on the dotted line at the dealership, be sure to make a quick phone call to your insurance company to find out what your new insurance rate will be if you go through with the purchase. In some cases the significant jump in insurance rates may be enough to scuttle the purchase and send you off in search of a new set of wheels.

Your deductible will also have a significant impact on your car insurance premium, so if you can afford to raise your deductible by even a couple hundred dollars you could save hundreds of dollars in premiums over the course of a year. It is generally a good idea to choose a higher deductible anyway, since submitting a small claim to your insurance company could cause your rates to rise. If you can afford to self-insure a higher deductible, you may be able to save yourself a lot of money.

Who lives in your household can also have a strong influence on your car insurance rates. If someone in your household has been convicted of a DUI, or if the individual has had his or her license suspended, you may be looking at significantly higher rates. These higher rates can be triggered even if the individual in question does not drive your vehicle. You may not be able to do much about this problem without sending your friend packing, but it is important to be aware that the members of your household can impact your insurance rates.

By understanding the factors that can cause your car insurance rates to increase, you will be in a better position to get a good deal on the insurance you need to stay safe on the road. By shopping around carefully you can save a great deal of money without sacrificing the coverage you need.