Car insurance is a necessity for any driver, but it can be a significant expense. If you’re looking for ways to save money on car insurance in Cicero, Illinois, you’re in luck. In this article, we’ll explore some tips to help you find the cheapest car insurance rates in Cicero.
1. Shop Around
The first step to finding cheap car insurance in Cicero is to shop around. You can begin by getting quotes from multiple insurance companies. Comparing quotes from different insurers can help you find the best rates for your coverage needs.
2. Consider Your Coverage Needs
When shopping for car insurance, it’s important to consider your coverage needs carefully. You don’t want to pay for more coverage than you need, but you also don’t want to be underinsured. Make sure you understand what each type of coverage entails and how much you need to be adequately protected.
3. Raise Your Deductible
One way to lower your car insurance premium is to raise your deductible. A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. The higher your deductible, the lower your premium will be.
4. Bundle Your Insurance Policies
If you have other insurance policies, such as homeowners or renters insurance, consider bundling your policies with one insurer. Many insurance companies offer discounts for customers who have multiple policies with them.
5. Drive Safely
Your driving record is a significant factor in determining your car insurance rates. If you have a history of accidents or traffic violations, you’ll likely pay more for coverage. On the other hand, if you have a clean driving record, you may qualify for discounts.
6. Take a Defensive Driving Course
Some insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who complete a defensive driving course. These courses teach safe driving techniques and can help you avoid accidents and traffic violations, which can lower your car insurance rates.
7. Drive a Safe Vehicle
The type of vehicle you drive can also impact your car insurance rates. Cars with high safety ratings and low theft rates are generally cheaper to insure. If you’re in the market for a new car, consider the insurance costs before making a purchase.
8. Maintain Good Credit
Believe it or not, your credit score can affect your car insurance rates. Insurance companies use credit-based insurance scores to help determine your rates. Maintaining good credit can help you qualify for lower car insurance rates.
9. Ask About Discounts
Don’t be afraid to ask your insurance company about discounts. Many insurers offer discounts for things like good driving habits, safety features on your vehicle, and low annual mileage. Ask your insurer which discounts you qualify for.
10. Consider Usage-Based Insurance
Usage-based insurance is a type of car insurance that charges you based on how much you drive. If you don’t drive often, this can be a great way to save money on car insurance. Some insurance companies even offer discounts for safe driving habits.
11. Choose a Higher-Rated Insurer
When choosing an insurance company, consider their financial strength and customer service ratings. Higher-rated insurers are more likely to provide good customer service and pay out claims quickly and fairly.
12. Pay Your Premiums Annually
If you can afford to pay your car insurance premiums annually instead of monthly, you may be able to save money. Many insurance companies charge extra fees for monthly payments.
13. Avoid Making Small Claims
It’s best to avoid making small claims on your car insurance policy. Insurance companies may raise your rates after a claim, even if it’s a small one. Consider paying for small repairs out of pocket instead of filing a claim.
14. Consider Your Commute
The more you drive, the higher your car insurance rates will be. If you have a long commute, consider carpooling or using public transportation to reduce your mileage and lower your insurance rates.
15. Choose a Higher Deductible for Comprehensive and Collision Coverage
Comprehensive and collision coverage are generally more expensive than liability coverage. If you choose to include these types of coverage in your policy, consider raising the deductible to lower your premium.
16. Ask About Low-Mileage Discounts
If you don’t drive very often, you may qualify for low-mileage discounts. Some insurance companies offer discounted rates for drivers who drive less than a certain number of miles per year.
17. Keep Your Insurance Policy Current
Make sure you keep your car insurance policy current. If you let your policy lapse, you may have to pay higher rates when you reapply for coverage. Some insurers also charge extra fees for reinstating a lapsed policy.
18. Consider a Usage-Based Insurance App
Some insurance companies offer usage-based insurance apps that track your driving habits. These apps can help you save money on car insurance by rewarding safe driving behaviors.
19. Ask About Student Discounts
If you’re a student, you may qualify for discounts on your car insurance. Many insurance companies offer discounted rates for students who maintain good grades or complete a driver education course.
20. Choose a Car with Lower Insurance Rates
The type of car you drive can impact your insurance rates. Cars with high safety ratings and low theft rates are generally cheaper to insure. Consider the insurance costs before purchasing a new car.
21. Avoid Adding Teen Drivers to Your Policy
Teen drivers are generally more expensive to insure than older drivers. If you have a teen driver in your household, consider having them get their own insurance policy to avoid raising your rates.
22. Keep Your Driving Record Clean
Your driving record is a major factor in determining your car insurance rates. Avoid traffic violations and accidents to keep your driving record clean and your rates low.
23. Consider Pay-Per-Mile Insurance
Pay-per-mile insurance is a type of car insurance that charges you based on how much you drive. If you don’t drive often, this can be a great way to save money on car insurance.
24. Choose a Higher-Rated Vehicle
The safety rating of your vehicle can also impact your car insurance rates. Vehicles with high safety ratings are generally cheaper to insure. Check the safety ratings of a vehicle before purchasing.
25. Ask About Safety Feature Discounts
If your car has safety features like anti-lock brakes, airbags, and a backup camera, you may qualify for discounts on your insurance rates. Ask your insurer which safety features qualify for discounts.
26. Consider a Higher Liability Limit
Liability coverage is mandatory in Illinois, but the minimum coverage may not be enough to protect you in the event of a serious accident. Consider choosing a higher liability limit to ensure you’re adequately protected.
27. Ask About Group Discounts
Some insurance companies offer discounts to members of certain organizations or professions. Ask your insurer if you qualify for any group discounts.
28. Consider Paying for Roadside Assistance Separately
Roadside assistance is a valuable service, but it can be expensive to include in your car insurance policy. Consider paying for roadside assistance separately to save money on your car insurance premium.
29. Compare Rates Annually
Car insurance rates can change from year to year, so it’s important to compare rates annually. You may be able to find a cheaper rate from a different insurer or qualify for new discounts.
30. Work with an Independent Insurance Agent
An independent insurance agent can help you find the best car insurance rates in Cicero. They work with multiple insurance companies and can compare rates to find the best coverage at the best price.
