A recent article shows the average monthly premium for a PA driver with full coverage is $221. How do insurance providers determine your costs? They look at your driving history, your age, and the type of car you drive among dozens of other factors. Looking for new auto insurance in Allentown? Here are a few simple tips to make buying your auto policy as easy and affordable as possible.
1. Ask for Discounts
Let’s face it—insurance is just expensive these days! Thankfully, most insurance providers offer discounts, most commonly for good driving, paying annually (versus monthly) and bundled policies across auto and homeowner policies.
When shopping for quotes, take the time to ask about any current promotions or discounts. Once the representative or agent starts digging, they often find at least one money-saving option, and the more information you share, the easier it is to find these options.
2. Think About Your Car
Older cars are often cheaper to insure in the first place (antique cars require special coverage), and you can often lower your costs further. Take a look at the resale value of your car. Is it lower than the premiums you’d pay for comprehensive coverage over the year? If the answer is yes, consider cutting back on your collision or comprehensive coverage. It could be cheaper to pay for repairs out-of-pocket.
If your car is newer, keep your coverage limits high and look for other ways to save.
3. Be Mindful of Your Credit Score
Insurance companies consider your credit score when determining your premiums.
If you have a low score, start working on building your credit. Pay down existing debts and avoid taking out any new loans or credit cards. Once your score increases, schedule an insurance review or start shopping for new coverage.
4. Consider a Higher Deductible
The deductible is what you pay out-of-pocket anytime you file a claim. When you have a low deductible, the insurance provider covers more of the repair costs when you file a claim.This results in higher monthly premium payments. Why? Because the provider wants to recoup their money as much as possible.
The higher your deductible, the lower your monthly premiums will be. This means you can get higher quality coverage for a lower monthly premium. But remember to use your own risk/discretion, knowing your ability to pay a deductible should you need to file a claim.
5. Maintain a Good Driving Record
Safe drivers are less of a risk for insurance companies. It’s only when you get in accidents that you cost the company money.
Do your best to maintain a good driving record. Always go the speed limit, avoid texting and driving, and do everything you can to avoid getting into accidents. Another consideration is taking a defensive driving course to further improve your skills, while possibly lowering your insurance rates! Speak with your agent to see if you’re eligible.
6. Schedule Annual Insurance Reviews
A lot can change in a year and insurance is no exception. Schedule an annual insurance review with your insurance agent. They’ll look at your current insurance needs and see if you’re eligible for any new discounts or coverage savings. They’ll want to consider life changes like:
- Personal information: basic info like mailing address, phone number, email address and all the members of your household, plus any family changes like marriage, divorce or birth of a baby
- Covered drivers: if you have a teen almost ready to drive or are considering purchasing a new vehicle, proactively discuss these updates with your agent
- Home updates: major home improvements can increase the value of your home, meaning you may want to increase your coverage
- New purchases: consider valuables or “toys” likes a boat or ATV and appropriate coverages for all
- Job changes: if you’re working from home now, you may be able to get lower insurance for reduced mileage
In some cases, they’ll even find a better insurance policy that helps lower your costs.
7. Bundle Your Policies
Juggling policies with multiple providers is time-consuming. But it can also cost you a small fortune.
By bundling your homeowner’s insurance with your auto insurance policy, most providers offer you a significant discount. When shopping, find out what types of bundles the provider offers and how much combining coverage can save you. It might not be enough to make the switch, but you’ll never know unless you ask.
8. Keep It Local
It’s tempting to shop for auto insurance online, but it’s not the best idea. A local insurance agent looks out for your interests and also understands geographic nuances like trends for auto insurance in Allentown!
Large national chains and online-only providers won’t give you that kind of service. This makes it more difficult to file a claim, make sure things get settled fast, and make changes throughout the year.
Instead of checking the computer first, make an appointment with your local insurance agent. Let them assess your insurance needs and find the best coverage possible. This way, you’ll always have someone to turn to, notably when making a claim. And it won’t be a faceless stranger in a call center.
9. Compare Value vs. Price
When you’re buying auto insurance in Allentown, Pennsylvania, it’s tempting to base your decision on price alone. After all, you have bills to pay and loved ones to care for.
But when you pick a policy on price and nothing else, you could end up with inferior coverage. Instead, pick a policy based on the overall value.
Paying a little more for much better coverage and higher insurance limits is far better than paying less for too little.
Find the Best Auto Insurance in Allentown, Pennsylvania
Buying auto insurance in Allentown, Pennsylvania doesn’t have to be stressful. You just need to follow these tips and speak with your local insurance agent. There’s never a bad time to start looking for a policy.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our friendly agents will help you find the coverage you need at an affordable price!
