Owning a car is very rarely an inexpensive endeavour. While it can be enjoyable to spend plenty of dollar on upgrading our vehicles, kitting it out with a solid sound system, and so on, some expenses are less pleasant. Take car insurance. It’s something that we all need to have if we’re going to be out there on the roads, but the seemingly confusing – and rarely cheap – costs mean it’s something we get with a frown, rather than a smile. How is the cost worked out, anyway? Read on below: by knowing what’s involved, you might just find you can lower your price when it comes to renewal.
Source: Pexels.com
Your Age
Most people wish they could knock a few years off their age, but in one case, this isn’t the case. If you’re a young driver, then your insurance is going to be more expensive. That’s just the way it is, and with good reason. Statistics show that young people are more likely to be involved in a car accident, which means insurers have to cover the risk they can when they insure a driver under the age of 25. The good news is that time will take care of this issue. Just hold tight!
Where You Live
There’s much that goes into deciding where to live, and you shouldn’t buy – or discount – a home based on how much it’ll lower or raise your car insurance, but it is a factor. If you live in a densely populated area, then you’ll be at greater risk of criminal activity and of being bumped by other vehicles. Conversely, if you live in a rural area that has a population of fourteen, then it’s unlikely that your car is going to be damaged by another person.
Past Driving Experiences
You have little say in the factors listed above, but there is one field where you have a say: your driving skills! If you’ve been involved in a few fender benders during your time on the road, then insurers are going to think you’re a high risk of having another accident – and raise your insurance costs at the same time. Even things like speeding tickets and other violations, such as getting a ticket for not wearing a seatbelt, can influence the final cost. If you receive a violation, you’ll be well served by recruiting a ticket firm and trying to get it overturned. If you’re successful, you’ll be able to avoid paying more for your insurance.
You’re Using Your Car
Now, you shouldn’t be punished for using your car. After all, you paid a lot of money for it; you may as well use it! But look at it from the perspective of insurance companies: the more you’re on the road, the greater your chances of having an accident! As such, it can sometimes be worth investigating other ways to travel, such as cycling or taking public transport, to reduce the number of miles you drive each year. You’ll be helping the planet, and keeping costs down too. Score!
