Why It Pays to Compare Auto Insurance Rates Every Year

If you have auto insurance, you may believe that creating a policy is a one-time deal. We might customize our auto coverage once, let the payments renew automatically, and forget about how our needs and budget may have changed in the meantime.  

Even if you’re perfectly happy with your current policy, it can be helpful to review your coverage and compare car insurance rates every year. A quick review may reveal savings, new discounts, or additional coverage options you may have initially missed. Here, we’ll discuss how conducting car insurance rate comparisons may help you save money and how Infinity Insurance Agency, Inc. (IIA) can help you find coverage that works for you. 

Car insurance rates can change 

Insurance rates aren’t typically set in stone. Insurance carriers may change them yearly based on factors like inflation, repair costs, accident trends, and even weather patterns. 

This means that your premium could also shift from year to year. You might have a great driving record and the same car, but your rate may still fluctuate simply because the market changed. 

Because of changes that may be out of your control, it can be helpful to review your policy yearly with an insurance agent. Understanding your premium fluctuations may help you find insurance that better matches your budget. 

Life changes that may affect your premium 

Changes you may have made in the past year or two could affect how much you pay for auto insurance. Here are some common changes that could contribute to your insurance rates: 

  • New address: Moving to a new area, city, or state may escalate or decrease your insurance premium. 
     
  • Vehicle updates: Bought a new car? Installed anti-theft or safety features? These updates could change how much you pay for your auto coverage.  
     
  • Changes in driving habits: Depending on how long your work commute is or how often you drive may increase your premium.  

When your life shifts, your insurance could shift with it. If you’re worried that you’re spending too much on insurance, it may be helpful to compare rates yearly.

 

Comparing car insurance rates 

It can be helpful to compare car insurance quotes yearly because you may be able to find a policy that better aligns with your budget. Also, carriers may be introducing new discounts from time to time, which could help you get a lower premium. Your life changes may also qualify you for a discount, like if your spouse purchases their own car and you’re able to bundle it with your vehicle on your existing policy.   

Even if you’re unsure, comparing quotes could help you find lower rates than you initially expected.  

Auto insurance coverage needs may change

Your needs may have transitioned or evolved since you bought your policy. If you moved to an area with higher traffic accidents, you may want to change your liability or collision limits. You may also be missing additional coverages, like uninsured motorist coverage or roadside assistance, which could help you navigate certain accidents.  

A yearly review of your policy can help you align your auto insurance with your current situation and needs.  

Signs it’s time to compare car insurance rates 

Not sure if you should shop around? Here are some signs that it may be time for you to compare insurance rates: 

  • Your renewal premium just increased.
  • You’ve had a major life change like a new job, new home, or recently got married.
  • You recently moved, even within the same city.
  • You haven’t reviewed your coverage in over 12 months. 

If these situations sound familiar, it may be worth it to compare rates and see if you qualify for discounts or a lower premium. 

How IIA can help you

We know comparing quotes sounds like a hassle, but IIA can guide you through this process. We work with more than 20 trusted carriers, allowing you to review different rates to see how they may align with your budget.  

Our carriers can offer flexible coverage options and payment plans that can help fit your lifestyle. If you’re looking for personal auto insurance or commercial auto insurance for your small business, you can get a quote online or call us at 1-855-478-3705. 

Our knowledgeable, Spanish-bilingual team is here to assist you through your insurance journey. By speaking with an IIA agent, you may be able to find discounts you qualify for or discover a car insurance policy that better matches your budget. Head to our website to get a free personalized quote today!

 

Disclaimer:

This material is for general informational purposes only. Any products, services, and discounts referenced herein are not available in all states or from all companies. All statements are subject to the terms, exclusions, and conditions of the applicable policy. In all instances, current policy contract language prevails. Coverage is subject to individual policyholders meeting the insurer's underwriting qualifications and state availability. Other terms, conditions, and exclusions may apply.

The content is provided on an “as is,” and “as available” basis without representation or warranty of any kind whatsoever. The materials available are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should contact legal counsel to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. Use of this website or any of the links contained within the website does not create representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.