The cost of car insurance in Arizona was $837 in 2014 – just under the national average of $866. Average costs have been ticking up over the years, leaving many Scottsdale area drivers wondering what exactly goes into the cost of coverage. Some of it is caused by rate hikes across the board, thanks in part to an increase in car accidents and in the number of distracted drivers on the road. However, there are many individual variables that can factor into your personal rates. Continue reading to learn what could be contributing to the cost of your coverage and what you can do to get a more competitive quote.
Car Insurance Cost Variables
Insurers create special formulas designed to help them assess the amount of risk they will take by insuring a particular driver. Many different components can be considered in those calculations, with varying amounts of weight on each variable between insurers.
Examples of factors that affect your costs include:
- The vehicle you drive (make, model and year)
- Whether your vehicle has special safety features (i.e. airbags or anti-theft devices)
- The primary reason you drive your vehicle (i.e. business, commute, leisure)
- The number of miles you drive each year
- How much it would cost to repair your vehicle locally
- How much it would cost to replace your vehicle
- The number of vehicles you are insuring under your policy
- The age, gender, marital status, and occupation of the drivers on your policy
- Where you live
- Whether you own your home
- Violations on your driving record
- Information in your credit report
- The number of car insurance claims you have made in the past five to seven years
- And more
Ways to Save
Saving money on car insurance is something nearly anyone can do if they know the right steps to take. Competitive rates can be found, and we here at The Don Neeley Agency are here to help you find them.
What Not to Do
First and foremost, never cut your coverage to save on car insurance. Lowering the limits on your policy might save a few dollars up front, but it could cost you big when the time comes to file a claim or if you are sued for an accident-related liability. Don’t sacrifice your family’s financial security for the sake of a lower rate.
Look for Discounts
Most insurers offer discounts on coverage for drivers who meet certain qualifications. For example, teen drivers might pay more for car insurance, but those who maintain good grades in school might qualify for discounts. Other discounts may be available if you insure multiple vehicles on your policy, combine your home and auto insurance with the same carrier, or enroll in an approved driver safety course.
Talk to an Independent Agent
If you are not already working with an independent agent here at The Don Neeley Agency, pick up the phone and give us a call. As an independent agency, we work for you – not the insurer. That means we can shop around on your behalf to find a policy with a competitive rate that is just right for you.
