As gas prices continue to climb, motorists may again start looking to swap out their low mpg vehicles for more fuel-efficient models, but fuel economy isn’t the only place where savvy consumers can save.
You can trim the cost of auto insurance by purchasing a vehicle that has enhanced safety features, accident avoidance technology and anti-theft devices. In newer models, many of these features are now standard.
The first step is to contact your insurer, recommends David Snyder, spokesperson for the American Insurance Association.
“Because each insurance company’s rating system is different, if you currently have insurance, check with your company to learn which cars have a more favorable rating than others,” Snyder says.
Certain variables that factor into your insurance rate can’t be changed: where you live, how often you drive the car, and the age of the drivers. But knowing what to look for in a car purchase and what to avoid gives you control over the variables that could lower your insurance rates.
