When it comes to car insurance, people want to get the best coverage for the lowest price. The majority of people recognize the big-name insurance companies. These companies advertise their services in print and digital media in the hopes of garnering customers.
However, these insurance companies only have one product to sell and can be purchased through a captive insurance agency. This is an agent who works for one company and can only sell the policies of that particular company.
Does that mean they are the best choice for cheap NY car insurance? It’s possible but not always so!
This is where an independent agency can come in handy. They represent more than one regional and national insurance company that can offer you much more than you can get with a single company. Think of insurance shopping as car shopping. Would you shop at a car dealership that offers a single make and model or one that offers several different models with various features?
This is what an independent agency can offer you. They can access various insurance companies and provide you with quotes for each one so you can compare the cost and features. You can find the best coverage options for you and what you’re looking for.
9 Factors That Affect Your Insurance Quote (How Much You Pay)
- Driving Record – The one key factor that affects how much you’ll pay for car insurance is your driving record. Do you have any at-fault accidents or traffic violations on your record? If so, then you’re likely to pay more because you are seen as a risk.
- Age – Records show that people who have been driving for several years are less likely to be involved in a car accident or have traffic violations. Teenagers and 25 years old and younger drivers tend to experience more accidents, which means their car insurance rates are generally much higher. People 30 and 64 years old tend to be much more reliable in their driving habits.
- Gender – According to statistics, men are much more likely to get into an accident than women because they often take risks, such as driving and driving. Women who get into accidents tend to get into less serious and fatal accidents. As such, women will not pay as much as men for their insurance.
- Credit Rating – Many insurance companies will use your credit history to determine how much you pay. The credit-based insurance score is a rating that makes up some or all of your credit information and can significantly impact your premium.
- Location – Where you live can also play a role in how much you pay for insurance. Is your area prone to theft, vandalism or accidents? If so, rates are generally higher.
- Car Type – The kind of vehicle you need to insure will also play a role in your premium quote. There are several reasons for this: theft possibility, repair costs, engine size, vehicle safety record, etc. Vehicles with safety equipment will often lead to major discounts.
- Vehicle Use – If you’re driving to and from work long distances, your premium will likely be higher.
- Vehicle Mileage – The more you drive your vehicle, the higher your premium could be. Several companies have started eliminating this factor unless the vehicle is used for work-related reasons.
- Insurance Coverage and Limit – How much you add to your policy will also determine your premium. For instance, if you add in personal injury protection, deductible coverage, liability coverage, roadside assistance, new car replacement, glass coverage, collision and comprehensive coverage, all this will add up. The more add-ons you have, the more expensive the policy will be.
When it comes to auto insurance coverage and NY car insurance quotes, you don’t want to skimp out. But, you need to be mindful of when too much is too much and get rid of things you do not need. While you can’t change every factor – age and location – you can change many others that can help reduce your premium. Insurance doesn’t have to be expensive. Just know where to look, and don’t settle until you find a policy that fits your needs and budget.
