A Few Things That Make Your Car Insurance Go Up

If you have a vehicle registered to drive on the streets of the United States, you need to have insurance coverage or some type of proof of financial responsibility. Some states will allow you to purchase a bond from them in an amount they feel will cover any expenses from a car accident you caused. If you are like most people, you have researched the different ways that will lower your insurance premiums. However, there are also things that will cause the rate to rise. Here are just a few you need to be aware of.

Expected Increases

Most people understand that their driving record has an impact on their insurance rates. If you have moving traffic violations, or are involved in an accident you can expect to see an increase. Many people, however, think that if the infraction or accident occurred in a different state it will not go on your record and won't affect your insurance. Technology has made it very easy for states to communicate traffic infractions though, so a speeding ticket across the country will now do the same thing as one at home.

Another common cause for an increase is the make, model, and year of the vehicle. The more it would cost to replace the auto, the more the insurance will be.

Unexpected Increases

Where you live is also a consideration for insurance rates. Even if you live in the same city, if you change zip codes or move to a different area within the same zip code, it may impact your rates.

Your age is another cause for insurance increases. You are probably aware of the fact that younger drivers pay more, but did you know that so do older drivers. To make matters worse, many companies start the increase at age 50. You may be young, healthy and an experienced driver, but the insurance companies feel you are at a higher risk for accidents.

In addition, your marriage status can cause your premiums to go up. Married people get lower rates than their single friends.

Finally, some insurance companies will increase how much you have to pay if you have poor credit. While it would seem that a higher payment would be more likely to cause you to miss one than a lower payment, they are not willing to take as much of a risk on your continued payments.

What You Can Do to Lower Your Premiums

While it is impossible to avoid all accidents, you can take measures to have traffic violations reduced to non-moving violations that won't affect your insurance. Do not just pay the fine and forget about it. Go to court and speak with the attorney present, in many situations the charge will be changed.

When considering a move, check with your insurance company about rates in the new area, an increase should be considered when budgeting for the new place.

Anytime you notice a premium increase, call your insurance agent to find out the reason. Then, ask if there is anything you can do to change it back. You may need to attend driving school, but it will save you a lot of money in the long run.

For more information, contact companies like the Kesner Insurance Agency Inc.

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