Automobile insurance is not a "one-size-fits-all" purchase. You can save money by taking advantage of the discounts that apply to you and your family. Here are some ideas to help you get started:

Comparison Shop - Try to get quotes from at least three different companies to compare rates.

Raise Your Deductible - (The amount you pay before the insurance company pays the balance for repairs for any accident) - The higher your deductible, the lower the premium (annual rate) will be.

Drop Collision and Comprehensive Coverage on Older Cars - (Collision covers damage to your own vehicle caused by an accident. Comprehensive coverage is for damage caused for reasons other than an automobile accident; i.e., fire, theft, earthquakes, and such.) Consult the Kelley Blue Book listings or the used car values at www.Edmonds.com to become aware of the replacement value of your older car. Each year your car gets older and worth less. If you haven't updated your policy in a while, you might be over-insuring your car today.

Buy a "Low Profile" Car - As much as you want to drive that new sports car, can you really afford the insurance? Insurance rates vary by the style of car, in part because certain cars have a high rate of theft. To see which cars are the most popular to steal, look at the National Insurance Crime Bureau's Top 10 Vehicles Stolen list. Compare the savings by driving a sedan instead of a sporty coupe.

Low Mileage/Restricted Mileage - If your commute is small or you use public transportation and keep the mileage on your car to a minimum, you may be able to save money.

Safety Features - Standard features on your newer car may help you save money on insurance. Do you have anti-lock brakes Automatic seat belts Air bags?

Anti-theft Devices - More and more vehicles today have installed anti-theft features. If your car has an alarm, ignition and fuel cut-off systems, wheel locking devices or other theft deterrent extras, you could qualify for a discount.

Multi-Car Policy - Some insurance companies will offer a discount if you insure all your vehicles with them on a single policy.

You will also save money if:

• You are over 55 years of age.
• You are a non-smoker.
• You completed a driver-training course.
• You carpool to work.
• You have a safe driving record.
• You are a student (or insuring a student) with good grades.
• You are a student (or insuring a student) living away from home without a car.
• You pay your premium in a lump sum and save service charges.
• You are married.
• You have maintained your insurance policy with the same company for many years.
• You purchase multiple insurance products from the same insurance carrier.

Of the possible discounts listed above, at least one of them applies to you. When you are shopping for insurance, ask about the discounts you think might apply to you and find out about other discounts being offered by the carrier. Keep a record of the discounts offered by the different insurance companies and as your situation changes, comparison shop frequently. For additional tips about car insurance, see the Insurance Information Institute article9 Ways to Lower Your Auto Insurance Costs.

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• The Basics of Understanding Auto Insurance - Knowing the basics of automobile insurance will help guide you toward the best policy with the most coverage at the lowest cost. Quickly familiarize yourself with the coverages available to make the best informed decision.
  
  
• Tips for Choosing Renter's Insurance - If you rent property, it is important to understand that none of your personal belongings are insured. Buying renter's insurance will protect you from losses you may experience while residing in a property you do not own. You can base the level of coverage you need on the outline provided and instantly protect yourself and your possessions from unexpected disasters.
  
  
• Lower your Insurance Premium by Increasing your Deductible - Without changing the actual level of benefits provided under your insurance policy, you can lower the premium you pay for the coverage by increasing the amount of your deductible. This is a quick, easy way to save money. But first, determine whether an increased deductible works for your specific situation.