Simple Steps to Shop Around for Car Insurance Deals

Has it been a long time since you shopped for auto insurance quotes? You can potentially save thousands of dollars in car insurance premiums by switching providers. Most experts recommend looking for new rates every 6 to 12 months, or anytime you have a big policy change like a new driver or vehicle. Fortunately, the process of shopping around for auto coverage doesn't have to be stressful if you use these smart strategies.

Take Advantage of Online Tools

You don't have to spend time on the phone or visit an insurance agent to find a more affordable policy. Most insurance companies have online quote systems. You can also use web tools that let you compare policies from multiple companies after filling out one form. If you find a better rate for similar coverage, it typically takes just a few minutes to switch. Before you start, write down pertinent information like the car's mileage and VIN, the date of birth and driver's license numbers for all drivers on the policy, and the details of any claims you've had in the past several years.

Compare Equal Policies

When looking at prices across different companies, make sure you compare "apples to apples" in terms of coverage. You don't want to save money by downgrading your policy since you could end up paying out of pocket for expenses if you have an accident. In addition to the actual coverage, look at benefits that may only be available from specific providers, like unique discounts or loyalty programs.