The state you live in, your driving history, your age, and your credit score are just some of the factors affecting your auto insurance premium. Here are a handful of ways to obtain inexpensive car insurance and the best coverage:

1 - Shop Around

It's easy to get swayed by flashy ads claiming a particular company offers the cheapest car insurance. Instead, get quotes from different companies and compare them to find the most affordable options. By shopping around, you'll be surprised to discover the difference in quotes ranges from just a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. This could be because of exclusive deals offered to specific categories of applicants such as veterans or students in good standing. Most insurance companies also offer good driver and credit score discounts.

2 - Utilize Online Resources

One way of comparing different rates to find the best deal on car insurance is to use online resources. Almost every reputable insurance company has a website and an online quote generator that can give you an idea of how much you can expect to pay for auto insurance. All it takes is a few clicks to get a list of available deals. Some companies offer deep discounts seasonally or on special holidays.

3 - Check Out Smaller Companies

You can turn to local or regional car insurance companies versus big-time national brands. Check out local and regional insurers that might be able to offer you a more affordable quote. For example, smaller insurance agencies tend to be more focused on customer satisfaction. As a smaller entity, they tend to bring a more personal touch and better ratings to the table. They might also be more open to negotiating a better rate compared to national companies.

4 - Opt for a Higher Deductible

Did you know opting for a higher deductible can help reduce your insurance rate? At the same time, make sure the deductible being presented is affordable. A deductible is a cost-sharing agreement between you and the insurance network. It refers to the amount you will have to pay for every claim while the insurance provider pays the rest. If you are a good driver and confident in your driving skills, then this is an option you should strongly consider.

5 - Tweak Your Insurance Coverage

If you don’t routinely drive long distances, you may want to consider a pay-per-mile or usage-based insurance policy. Insurance providers usually have a specific miles limit when determining rates. If you use your car less than that limit, you could be eligible for a lower rate. This option is ideal for people who work from home, carpool frequently, and drive less than 10,000 miles annually. Similarly, if the car you're insuring is old and has a low market value, you could opt out of comprehensive and collision coverage to lower your overall rate.

It's Always a Good Idea to Keep Your Options Open

Apart from these key points, factors such as the make and model of the vehicle will also come into play. Remember, any add-on benefits you have, like roadside assistance, will mean higher rates. In conclusion, take your time and keep your options open when trying to keep your car insurance costs low.