Though crime rates have dropped steadily over the past decade, Miami has seen a huge decline in auto theft. That doesn’t mean that you should skimp on your auto insurance, especially Florida has the second highest population of uninsured drivers. You need to cover accidents and the resulting damage, plus your own liability in case you are at fault in an accident. Yes, rates can be very high here in Miami, but a local independent insurance agent can help you put together a package of coverage that is both affordable, comprehensive, and comprehensible.
Here are some tips to help you get the best car insurance rate available
- Drive a car no one wants to steal. If you have something like a Toyota minivan, you’re in luck. The 2012 annual insurance premium for the average driver was $1,111. Pickup trucks like the Chevy Silverado are also on the list of inexpensive vehicles, too. However if your whip is a Jaguar, Mercedes CL, SL, or S class, or a smoking hot new BMW, you will be on the hook for $2000-$3000.
- If you’re a guy, get married. Married men and single or married women get favorable rates. However, those under age 25 can expect to pay substantially more, especially if you’re male.
- Show that you are a trustworthy driver. Tickets, accidents, and DUIs will drive up your rate and – if there’s enough of them – might see your insurance canceled altogether.
- You can also reduce your premium by taking a higher deductible on your policy. However, this can be a two-edged sword. A higher deductible means that you will pay more money out of pocket in the event of an incident, accident, or theft.
- Take a defensive driving class. AAA offers these classes for drivers of all ages, and so does the AARP.
- You may also be able to get a break by bundling your insurance policies together. Bundling together your home, auto, boat, and life insurance policies under the same company can often bring a hefty discount.
- Work with your insurance agent to find out what discounts are available for things like car alarms, LoJack, or other antitheft devices. Discounts may also be available for those with short commutes, students with good grades, retirees, and other groups.
- Some companies are offering pay-as-you-go policies, with premiums tied to your annual mileage.
- If you and your spouse each have your own auto, you may be able to bundle both cars under one multiple vehicle policy. Multiple drivers can also be added to the same insurance policy, even if they’re not in the same family. Spouses, kids, significant others, and even roommates could be eligible.
- Keep your credit report clean. Some companies are known to use credit report scoring to determine risk, though it is possible to be a really good driver with a really bad credit score.
Finally the best tip of all is to work with an independent insurance agent like E&L Insurance to shop around for the best car insurance rates. E&L Insurance will be able to guide you to the policies that are best suited for you instead of a slate of company product.