Tightwads Tips for Saving on Amherst Auto Insurance

Nobody cherishes buying auto insurance, particularly when the cost is way too high. Consumers have many to buy insurance from, and even though it's nice to have multiple companies, it can be more difficult to compare rates.

It's important to compare rates occasionally because prices are constantly changing. Just because you found the best price a few years ago you will most likely find a better rate today. Ignore everything you know about auto insurance because we're going to demonstrate the quickest way to eliminate unnecessary coverages and save money.

Don't pay full price with these discounts

Companies offering auto insurance don't list all their discounts very clearly, so we took the time to find both the well known and also the lesser-known discounts you could be receiving. If you're not getting every credit you qualify for, you are throwing money away.

  • Bundle and Save - If you have multiple policies with the same insurance company you may earn up to 20% off your total premium.
  • Anti-theft Discount - Vehicles with anti-theft systems prevent vehicle theft and earn discounts up to 10%.
  • Multiple Cars - Having all your vehicles on one policy can get a discount on all vehicles.
  • Sign Online - Certain companies may give you up to $50 just for signing your application over the internet.
  • Accident Forgiveness - Certain companies allow you one accident before your rates go up as long as you don't have any claims prior to the accident.

Keep in mind that some credits don't apply to your bottom line cost. Most only reduce specific coverage prices like collision or personal injury protection. So when it seems like all the discounts add up to a free policy, it just doesn't work that way.

New York auto insurance quotes

Your personal situation dictates your coverage

When it comes to buying the right insurance coverage for your vehicles, there isn't really a perfect coverage plan. Every situation is different and your policy should reflect that. Here are some questions about coverages that might point out whether or not you will benefit from professional help.

  • What is the difference between comprehensive and collision coverage?
  • Do I need special endorsements for business use of my vehicle?
  • Am I covered if I wreck a rental car?
  • Does my liability insurance cover pulling a trailer or camper?
  • I have good health insurance, so how much medical payments coverage do I need?
  • Does my personal auto insurance policy cover using my vehicle for business use?
  • Do I have coverage when using my vehicle for my home business?

If you can't answer these questions but you think they might apply to your situation, you may need to chat with a licensed insurance agent. To find lower rates from a local agent, complete this form or you can go here for a list of companies in your area. It's fast, doesn't cost anything and you can get the answers you need.

The auto insurance bait and switch

Consumers in New York get pounded daily by advertisements for cheaper car insurance by GEICO, State Farm and Progressive. They all seem to have a common claim that you can save if you change to their company.

How does each company claim to save you money? It's all in the numbers.

All companies have a certain "appetite" for the driver that earns them a profit. For example, a desirable insured might be between the ages of 40 and 55, owns a home, and has a short commute. A customer getting a price quote that hits that "sweet spot" will get the preferred rates and therefore will save when switching.

Potential customers who don't measure up to these standards will have to pay a higher premium and this can result in the customer not buying. The ads state "customers who switch" not "everyone that quotes" save that much. That is how insurance companies can make the claims of big savings. Because of the profiling, you should get as many quotes as possible. It's impossible to know which company will fit your personal profile best.

For more New York car insurance information

Additional detailed information can be found at the New York Department of Financial Services website. Visitors are able to view agent and company licensing information, read consumer alerts, find out which companies have the most complaints, and get help finding coverage.

Amherst auto insurance quote

Best coverage at the best price

As you shop your coverage around, never buy lower coverage limits just to save a few bucks. In many instances, an insured cut physical damage coverage only to regret at claim time that saving that couple of dollars actually costed them tens of thousands. The ultimate goal is to get the best coverage possible at the best price.

Affordable auto insurance can be sourced both online and also from your neighborhood Amherst agents, so you should be comparing quotes from both to have the best rate selection. Some insurance providers may not provide you the ability to get quotes online and most of the time these regional insurance providers sell through independent agents.