The Insurance Weblog

19 Ways To Save On Auto Insurance

If you want to cut back your auto insurance spending, you can always cut the coverage to the bone. But this may not be a good idea for your financial safety in the long run. Follow the 19 recommendations from Bankrate's Dana Dratch and you are sure to land a bargain in your next auto insurance purchase.

1. Spend your insurance dollars wisely.
2. Don't just look at your total liability -- also look at your coverage per person.
3. Consider buying an umbrella policy.
4. Seek out good advice.
5. Keep a good credit rating.
6. Make your insurance company pay for a rental after an accident.
7. Shop around.
8. Take advantage of every discount.
9. If your teen is away at college, change the policy or take him off it.
10. If you drive an older car, consider dropping collision insurance.
11. Shop service, as well as price.
12. Understand the claims process when you buy your policy.
13. Ask about "diminished value."
14. Call your agent as soon as you can after an accident.
15. If you have a claim, start a diary.
16. Do what you can to further the claims process.
17. Include everything in your loss estimates.
18. Give an adjuster the benefit of the doubt -- but press on for what you need.
19. If you switch insurance companies, notify your old company.