Reader’s Question:

I’m told that I should only hire a car insurance broker if I really want to get cheap car insurance. Is there any truth to this?

Francois

Layton, UT

Brokers or agents are no longer your sole option when it comes to getting cheap car insurance these days. With the help of car insurance comparison websites (like this one) you can run a free quote check and be able to compare the best offers coming from a lot of different insurers quickly and easily. This saves you substantial amount of time and effort. Here are five more mistakes that you should avoid when it comes to car insurance:

Allowing Your Credit to Slide

A number of insurers (both major and local players) are using your credit standing as an indicator of how safe and responsible you are as a driver. Letting your credit fall can cause you to pay higher car insurance rates.

Not Knowing about Discounts

Discounts are one of the easiest ways to lower your car insurance costs. So it’s a sin not to ask your insurer about discount options. Some of the many include: defensive driver, good student, good driver history, low-mileage, and safe vehicle discounts.

Buying Too Much/Too Little Insurance

Too much car insurance and you’re throwing good money away, too little and you’re still throwing good money away! (if you cause a car accident, that is). Find the right balance by factoring in the current price of your vehicle (check out the Kelly Blue Book website), the minimum state liability requirements, and if how much Personal Injury Protection you can afford.

Not Looking at Deals “Every Once in a While”

While it’s great to be loyal to one company, excellent car insurance deals are offered everyday. Use car insurance comparison websites (like this one) to get quick and easy car insurance free quotes and determine if better offers are available.