Three Easy Ways For Drivers To Reduce Their Auto Insurance Rates

If your auto insurance policy is about to come up for a renewal, it's time to start thinking about some ways of making sure that you pay less for this bill during the year ahead. Getting a lower auto insurance rate doesn't have to involve calling multiple insurance providers to obtain quotes; while often effective, this time-consuming process is far from the only way to reduce your rate. Instead, you can make some simple changes to your insurance policy or make an effort to improve your driving skill to experience some savings. Here are some easy ways that you can reduce your auto insurance rate before you renew your policy.

Bundle Different Policies Together

One of the simplest ways to reduce the amount of your auto insurance bill is to bundle several insurance policies together. If you have your auto insurance on one policy, your home insurance on another policy and your life insurance on yet another policy, call your insurance agent to get the policies grouped together. Additionally, grouping the policies of a spouse or partner can translate into additional savings. This process is beneficial beyond saving you money -- it will also mean having to manage fewer bill payments per month.

Get Certified As A Defensive Driver

Drivers who have to make fewer accident-related claims will see their auto insurance rate decrease over time, but you can speed up the process by getting certified as a defensive driver. Find a defensive driving program in your city and sign up. In the class, you'll learn driving tips such as how to avoid accidents, how to control your vehicle in inclement weather and even how to improve your awareness of other drivers' actions. Once you graduate from the course, send your auto insurance agent a copy of your certification and the company will reciprocate with a drop in your insurance rate.

Find Another Way To Commute

Swapping your personal vehicle for mass transportation or another way of travel can lead to a decrease in your insurance rate. By finding another way to travel to and from work, you won't be risking an accident -- especially when the roads are congested and the odds of getting in an accident are higher. Depending on where you live, you might be able to take a subway, train or bus to work. Alternative methods include riding with a neighbor, or a fitness-focused approach, such as biking.