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You are encouraged to have long-term, mutually beneficial relationships with service provides. If you have been going to the same dentist or doctor for years, you have likely come to trust him and know what kind of service he provides.
The same goes for your car insurance company. The longer you renew your car insurance policy with the company, the longer you know you can expect great customer service. But what about your car insurance premium? Is this long-term relationship helping or hurting how much you pay for car insurance?
Car insurance experts say the longer you’re with your car insurance company, the less likely it is that you are getting the best rate possible for your car insurance premium. But this situation is easily remedied.
Call Your Car Insurance Agent
Because car insurance companies constantly offer new services, packages and discounts, there is a good chance there is one that could save you money that you are not aware of. Unfortunately, your car insurance agent isn’t going to call you to alert you of the ways you can save money. It is up to you.
Give your car insurance agent a call and schedule some time to discuss any programs or discounts that you may be eligible for. Your status may have changed, which may give you a wider range of options. For example, if you recently purchased a home, you can get homeowners’ insurance with the same company and get the cost savings offered to policyholders who carry more than one type of insurance with the same company.
Or perhaps you are driving fewer miles than in years past. Ask your agent if you qualify for a low mileage discount. Many car insurance companies are starting to offer pay-as-you-drive policies, which could help you save even more on car insurance.
Shop Around
If your car insurance agent finds nothing that will help you save on car insurance, and you have several years’ clean driving record, shop around for quotes on a car insurance premium with other car insurance companies. See what sorts of discounts and specials they offer. Then ask your friends which companies they recommend. If the rates are cheaper elsewhere for the same (or better) service, consider switching car insurance companies. Your long-term relationship is only useful as long as it is beneficial to you.
