How to Know You're Paying Too Much for Auto Insurance in Astoria

Nobody cherishes buying auto insurance, in particular when their premiums are through the roof.

There is such a variety of to buy insurance from, and though it is a good thing to have a choice, so many choices can make it hard to compare rates.

It's important to get comparison quotes occasionally because insurance rates are constantly changing. If you had the lowest rates last year you may be paying too much now. So forget anything you know (or think you know) about auto insurance because you're about to learn the tricks you need to know to save on auto insurance.

Finding Auto Insurance in Astoria, NY

Most major insurance companies like Progressive, GEICO, Allstate and State Farm allow you to get insurance quotes on their websites. Getting online rates doesn't take much effort as you just type in your coverage preferences as detailed in the form. Behind the scenes, the company's rating system will obtain credit information and your driving record and returns pricing information based on these and other factors. Quoting online makes it a lot easier to compare rates but the time it takes to visit multiple sites and complete many quote forms is monotonous and tiresome. But it's very important to have as many quotes as possible in order to find better auto insurance pricing.

A less time-consuming method to get multiple rate quotes uses one simple form that gets price quotes from several different companies. The form is fast, eliminates form submissions, and makes rate comparisons much more efficient. After sending your information, it is rated and you are able to buy any one of the returned quotes. If you find a better price you simply finish the application and purchase coverage. The entire process takes less than 15 minutes and may save quite a bit of money.

To save time and find out what other companies charge, click here to open in new window and complete the simple form. To compare your current rates, we recommend you type in deductibles and limits as shown on your current policy. This way, you will have a rate comparison based on similar coverages.

Astoria auto insurance comparison

Understand what determines the rate you pay

It's important that you understand some of the elements that come into play when calculating the price you pay for auto insurance. Knowing what influences your rates helps enable you to make changes that may reward you with much lower annual insurance costs.

The list below includes a few of the "ingredients" that factor into rates.

  • Older drivers save more - Teen drivers in New York tend to be more careless behind the wheel so they pay higher auto insurance rates. Adding a youthful driver onto your auto insurance can be very expensive. Older drivers are viewed as being more responsible, statistically cause fewer accidents and get fewer tickets.
  • Bundling policies can get discounts - The majority of companies will give a discount to customers who consolidate policies with them in the form of a multi-policy discount. Even with this discount, it's still a good idea to shop around to confirm you are receiving the best rates possible.
  • Special features that cut premiums - Owning a car with a theft deterrent system can get you a discount on your auto insurance. Anti-theft devices such as vehicle immobilizer systems, General Motors OnStar and LoJack tracking systems can help prevent your car from being stolen.
  • Marriage brings a discount - Having a spouse actually saves money when buying auto insurance. It usually means you are more mature and statistics show married couples file fewer claims.

These discounts can lower your rates

Companies don't always advertise all their discounts very clearly, so we break down both well-publicized and also the lesser-known auto insurance savings.

  • College Student - Children who attend school more than 100 miles from home without a vehicle on campus can be insured at a reduced rate.
  • Theft Prevention Discount - Anti-theft and alarm systems prevent vehicle theft and earn discounts up to 10%.
  • Pay Upfront and Save - If you pay your bill all at once rather than paying monthly you could save 5% or more.
  • Sign Online - A few companies will discount your bill up to fifty bucks just for signing your application over the internet.
  • Military Discounts - Having a deployed family member can result in better rates.

Keep in mind that most credits do not apply to your bottom line cost. Some only apply to specific coverage prices like liability, collision or medical payments. Just because you may think adding up those discounts means a free policy, it just doesn't work that way.

For a list of companies with the best auto insurance discounts in New York, follow this link.

Different people need different coverages

When it comes to choosing adequate coverage for your vehicles, there isn't really a one size fits all plan. Every situation is different and a cookie cutter policy won't apply. For instance, these questions might point out whether you could use an agent's help.

  • What are New York no-fault laws?
  • Am I covered when renting a car or should I buy coverage from the car rental agency?
  • What can I do if my company won't pay a claim?
  • Does my personal policy cover me when driving my company car?
  • Am I covered when delivering products for my home-based business?
  • Will I be non-renewed for getting a DUI or other conviction?
  • Am I getting all the discounts available?

If you don't know the answers to these questions, you may need to chat with a licensed agent. If you want to speak to an agent in your area, complete this form or you can go here for a list of companies in your area.

Additional detailed information can be found at the New York Department of Financial Services website. New York consumers can read enforcement actions against agents and companies, read consumer alerts, view a list of available companies, and get help finding coverage.

Astoria auto insurance quote

The best insurance company isn't always the cheapest

As you prepare to switch companies, never reduce needed coverages to save money. There are many occasions where an insured cut uninsured motorist or liability limits only to regret that the small savings ended up costing them much more. Your aim should be to get the best coverage possible at the best price.

Affordable auto insurance is possible online in addition to many Astoria insurance agents, and you need to comparison shop both to have the best rate selection. There are still a few companies who do not provide online quoting and most of the time these regional insurance providers sell through independent agents.