Alberta auto insurance is expensive. It is, in fact, one of the costliest purchases that we hope we never have to use. If you want to get the coverage you need at a price you can afford, you need to use some strategies to get the right discounts from your insurance provider. We bring you the top 10 tips to reduce your premium costs without taking unnecessary risks.
1. Consider the Vehicle You Drive
The type of car you drive will significantly impact your insurance rates. A Honda can cost around $1100 to insure, while a Mercedes AMG can cost more than $3800. Before you buy a new car, always check with an insurance provider to get estimate quotes.
2. Adjust Your Deductible
If you can bear the loss, consider raising your deductible from $100 or $250 to at least $500. If you can go up to $1000, you can save between 9 and 15% on your premiums.
3. Bundle Your Policies
If you combine your home insurance with your Alberta auto insurance, you can qualify for great discounts. Plus, it will be easier to work with one carrier than multiple companies.
4. Move when Possible
Though it may seem extreme, the area where you live can impact your insurance rates. If you’re anyway contemplating a move, it is a good idea to keep auto insurance in mind. Opt for safer neighborhoods with fewer thefts and lower traffic volumes to reduce your premiums.
5. Pay Annually or Semi-Annually
Though all insurance companies offer the option to pay monthly, it will cost you a lot more when you calculate at the end of the year. Always choose to pay annually or semi-annually to save more. You can save up to 5% by doing so.
6. Rethink Collision Coverage
If you’re driving an older car, you might not require a collision coverage. If your car’s value is less than or equal to your deductible, you can cancel your collision coverage and use the savings towards buying a new car.
7. Drive Better
Your insurance premiums can get affected by your driving record. Stay calm on the road and try to avoid accidents. Any ticket violations can have a negative effect on your premiums for three years and accidents can affect up to six years.
8. Install an Anti-Theft Device
When you have an anti-theft device, your car’s risk of getting stolen is drastically reduced. By adding extra safety features like an alarm or immobilizer, you can further reduce your rates.
9. Review Your Policy
As you make life changes, your premium rates can change. Make sure to review your policy from time to time and make the necessary revisions to get extra discounts.
10. Take Advantage of Discounts
There are many things you can do to get additional discounts from your carrier. Students with good grades, new drivers with a driver-training course, any driver with a defensive driving course, members of certain affinity groups, older drivers with a refresher course, reduced driving distance, better parking situations, etc. all qualify for discounts from your provider.
When looking for Alberta auto insurance, you don’t need to overspend to get the right coverage. You just need to think smart and do the best you can to get maximum discounts without hampering your policy.