If you think there isn’t much you can do about your car insurance premiums, you are mistaken. Depending on your circumstances, there may be multiple options for you to save. Here is a look at 10 of them.

1. Buy a safer car.

One of the data points a car insurance company will consider is how safe the vehicle is that is being driven. Before you buy your next car, new or used, look up the government’s safety ratings. You can also ask your insurance agent to inquire about rates on a particular car before you buy.

2. Increase your deductible.

A deductible is the amount you would have to pay first before insurance kicks in. By increasing that you will reduce your premiums. Contact your insurance carrier and see if the savings are worth increasing your risk.

3. Bundle your policies.

Most companies will offer discounts for clients who have more than one type of policy with them such as homeowner’s or renter’s insurance.

4. Improve grades.

Many companies will give “good student” discounts. If you are a student or the parent of a teen who drives, hitting the books can mean a lighter hit on the checkbook.

5. Obey traffic laws and avoid citations.

A good driving record is critical to improving your auto insurance rates. Traffic tickets themselves can be expensive. When you add in the increased costs of insurance it is worth obeying the rules of the road.

6. Use defensive driving tactics to avoid accidents.

Accidents are the quickest way to increased insurance rates.

7. Compare rates and companies.

Things in your life may have changed since the last time you compared rates. There is no downside in requesting quotes as they are generally provided at no cost or obligation.

8. Live closer to where you work and reduce the amount of miles you drive.

The less you drive the lower your auto insurance rates will be.

9. Take an online defensive driving course.

Many insurance companies will give you a discount just for completing an online defensive driving course. Your cost for the course could be more than made up by the savings. Ask your company if they offer discounts.

10. Get married.

Understand we aren’t suggesting to get married to save on your car insurance, but many are surprised to realize it can have that effect. If you have recently gotten married, let your car insurance carrier know!

Get busy and start saving on your auto insurance today! Be sure to let us know your results!