If your current rates seem high (or low), here are some possible reasons. If your rates are high, altering your lifestyle or vehicle choice can have a big effect. While criteria varies slightly from company to company, the major determining factors fall into four basic areas:

· WHO ARE YOU?

Your age, gender, marital status, driving record, and record of prior claims play a major role in determining your risk level and therefore the premium you will pay. Traditionally, males under 25 years of age represent the highest risk, while married, middle-aged, non-smoking mothers represent the lowest.

· WHERE DO YOU LIVE?

Living in an urban area typically triggers higher rates due to increased incidence of theft and accident claims - both of which are statistically higher in and around cities.

· WHAT DO YOU DRIVE?

The type of vehicle you drive greatly affects the rates you pay. Those vehicles that have a high frequency of claims (sports cars) or are expensive to repair (luxury cars, SUVs) are prone to higher premiums. However, larger vehicles tend to be safer in collisions, which can sometimes offsets costs.

· HOW DO YOU USE YOUR VEHICLE?

Statistically, the more miles you drive, the greater chance you have of being involved in an accident. High annual mileage will result in higher premiums.

Vehicles used off road or for business can also impact your rates.

Many insurance companies offer discounts for the following:

· Multiple Automobiles
· Multiple Line (Home & Auto)
· Passive restraint
· Driver training
· Accident free
· Air Bags

· Low Mileage
· Carpool Discounts
· Preferred 4 Door Vehicles
· Anti-theft Device
· Defensive Driving Course
· Good student

One way to reduce your premium is to increase the amount you self-insure. Raising your deductible amounts will help reduce premiums. Deductibles apply to comprehensive and collision coverage. Your deductible amounts may be limited depending on your situation, so check with your financing company or leasing company before raising deductibles.

NOTE:
Keep in mind, if you raise your deductible, then you are responsible to pay the deductible amount in the event of an claim.

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