Find Cheaper Staten Island Auto Insurance

Shopping online for Staten Island auto insurance can seem complicated if you've never compared online quoting. But relax because comparing prices is actually very simple.

Automobile Insurance Quotes in Staten Island, NY

The are a couple different ways to compare rate quotes from different Staten Island insurance companies. The recommended way to find the cheapest insurance rates is to get quotes online. This can be accomplished using a couple different methods.

The first (and easiest) way to compare a lot of rates at once is a comparison rater form like this one (opens in new window). This easy form eliminates the need for repetitive form submissions for every auto insurance company. A single form gets rate comparisons from multiple companies. It's the fastest way to compare.

A harder way to shop for auto insurance online is spending the time to visit the website of each company to complete their respective quote request forms. For instance, let's assume you want to compare , and . To get rate quotes you would need to go to every website and enter your policy data, which is why the first method is quicker.

For a list of links to companies insuring cars in Staten Island, click here.

It's up to you which method you use, but make absolute certain that you use the exact same information on every quote you get. If you are comparing higher or lower deductibles you can't possibly determine which rate is truly the best in Staten Island. Quoting even small variations in limits can result in a big premium difference. And when quoting auto insurance, remember that comparing a large number of companies will increase your chances of finding the best price.

How to Lower your Auto Insurance Rates

It's important that you understand the different types of things that help determine auto insurance rates. Understanding what influences your rates empowers consumers to make smart changes that will entitle you to lower auto insurance prices.

The following are a few of the "ingredients" used by your company to calculate prices.

Special features that cut premiums - Owning a car with a theft deterrent system can save you a little every year. Theft prevention features such as LoJack tracking devices, vehicle tamper alarm systems or GM's OnStar system can help prevent car theft.
Do you know you're credit rating? - Having a bad credit history is a big factor in determining your rates. If your credit is not that good, you could be paying less to insure your by repairing your credit. People with good credit tend to be more responsible than those with lower credit scores.
Please use or commuting - Driving more miles each year the higher your rate. Almost all companies price each vehicle's coverage based on their usage. Cars and trucks left parked in the garage qualify for better rates compared to those used for work or business. Make sure your auto insurance coverage is showing the proper vehicle usage.
Better crash test results mean better rates - Cars with high safety ratings can get you lower premiums. The safest vehicles protect occupants better and better occupant protection means less money paid by your insurance company and lower rates for you.

Policy discounts you shouldn't miss

Auto insurance companies don't necessarily list every discount in an easy-to-find place, so we took the time to find some of the best known and also the lesser-known savings tricks you should be using.

Lower Rates for Military - Being on active duty in the military may qualify for rate reductions.
Anti-lock Brake System - Vehicles with anti-lock braking systems can reduce accidents and will save you 10% or more.
Life Insurance - Some companies give lower rates if you buy a life insurance policy as well.
Claim Free - Good drivers with no accidents can save substantially when compared to frequent claim filers.
Accident Forgiveness - A few companies allow you one accident without raising rates if your claims history is clear prior to the accident.

Keep in mind that most discount credits are not given to your bottom line cost. The majority will only reduce specific coverage prices like liability and collision coverage. So even though they make it sound like it's possible to get free car insurance, it just doesn't work that way.

For a list of insurance companies who offer auto insurance discounts in Staten Island, click here to view.

Insurance agents can help

When it comes to choosing the right insurance coverage for your vehicles, there is no single plan that fits everyone. Your needs are not the same as everyone else's.

For example, these questions might point out whether your personal situation would benefit from professional advice.

Am I covered when pulling a rental trailer?
Can I get a multi-policy discount for packaging my home and auto coverage?
What happens if I owe more than my vehicle is worth?
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 covered if I wreck a rental car?
Does my policy cover me when driving someone else's vehicle?

If you're not sure about those questions, you might consider talking to an insurance agent. To find an agent in your area, complete this form.

Additional detailed information can be found at the New York Department of Financial Services website. New York drivers can view a list of available companies, find out industry alerts, and file complaints about an insurance agent or broker.

Final considerations

People change insurance companies for a variety of reasons including unfair underwriting practices, policy cancellation, delays in paying claims and delays in responding to claim requests. No matter why you want to switch, finding a new auto insurance company is not as hard as you think.

While you're price shopping online, you should never reduce needed coverages to save money. There have been many situations where an insured cut physical damage coverage only to discover later they didn't purchase enough coverage. The proper strategy is to buy the best coverage you can find at the best price while still protecting your assets.

Affordable auto insurance can be purchased on the web as well as from independent agents in Staten Island, and you need to price shop both to have the best rate selection. Some companies don't offer online quoting and these regional insurance providers work with independent agents.