Our Cincinnati Zimmer Insurance Agency clients often look for ways to control auto insurance costs.  TV commercials would have you think the only way to reduce your automobile insurance rates is to switch companies. While that may sometimes be the case, it’s pretty rare with our clients because we’re an independent agent and represent several insurance companies. This means we’re not locked into one company and their rates so we can select what is best for you, without having our hands tied to one company.

It’s important to remember that you also play a role in determining your rates. In later posts, we discuss safe driving tips but today we want to give you a few tips to keep your costs down.

  • Request higher deductibles. Most damage claims are for less than $1,000. While that’s not an amount to sneeze at, the savings in premiums over a few years make it worthwhile. Increase your deductible from $200 to $500 and you could lower the cost of collision and comprehensive by 15%  to 30%. Increase the deductible to $1,000 and you could save over 40%
  • Cancel coverage you don’t need. If you have a car that isn’t worth much,  it makes sense to cancel collision coverage. Between the cost of the premium and the deductible, it may not be worth it. You can check the approximate value of the car at the Kelly Blue Book web site.
  • Drive less. Most insurance companies offer discounts for low mileage usage. Since the odds of a claim increase with the amount of driving, you are a lower risk.
  • Add safety and security devices. Air bags and seat belts are standard on cars but you can still add security anti-theft and other security devices to reduce your rates.
  • Drive safely, be a defensive driver and practice good driving techniques. The surest way to have rates increase is to get in accidents or get tickets due to careless or reckless driving. Watch the speed limit, avoid distractions like cell phones, don’t ever text while driving, be aware of driving conditions and pay attention to the road.

These tips can help you control your auto insurance costs. If you are a Cincinnati Zimmer Insurance Agency client and have questions about your policy, just give us a ring at 513-381-1919. If you’re concerned that your auto insurance rates may be too high or coverage inadequate, you will want to talk to the experts at Zimmer Insurance Agency.

We look forward to serving you!

Read control auto insurance costs tips six to ten by clicking here.