5 Risk Factors That Could Be Driving Up The Costs Of Your Insurance Policy

As a driver in the United States, it is a legal requirement that you hold auto insurance that will cover damages in the event you are in an accident on the roadway. While auto insurance proves to be valuable on a variety of levels, it is easy to look at this mandated expense as unnecessary if you are a safe driver. However, you never know what could be waiting for you when you get behind the wheel. Therefore, it is logical to take a look at where you can save money on auto insurance.

When you initially sign up for a policy with an insurance company, your policy cost will be determined by assessing several risk factors. It is common knowledge that things that cannot be avoided, such as age or gender, can have a direct impact on overall costs. Yet there are other risk factors involved that you may be able to eliminate from the equation.

1. Lack of Safety Equipment

The lack of safety equipment, such as anti-theft devices or anti-lock brakes and airbags, will mean that an accident is more likely to occur. Making these modifications could lower the costs of your insurance.

2. Poor Student Status

Students who make good grades are considered to be less of a risk than those who are not in good standing where their education is concerned. For this reason, insurance companies often offer good student discounts, but some companies will require grade records to determine your risk as a driver.

3. Bad Credit

It has become common practice for insurance companies to perform credit checks on drivers and use the results either for their benefit or as a determining factor of related risk. Those with bad credit may be more prone to auto accidents or lapses in coverage, which is considered a risk.

4. Unmarried

Single drivers are assumed to be a greater risk than those who are married, for obvious reasons. Therefore, just getting married could be enough to help you save a little money on your insurance premiums.

5. Luxury Car Classification

Luxury cars are not only equipped with special parts and features, they can be more expensive to repair. Therefore, if your car is classified as a luxury vehicle, this may be considered a risk factor by the insurance company.

When it comes down to the price you pay for auto insurance, there are several factors that will come into play that you could change if you really want to. Be sure to check with your auto insurance provider to find risk factors that could be driving up the monthly costs of your insurance policy.