Consumer Alert: How to keep car insurance costs down

When it comes to insuring your car, experts say that it is not always about price. Car owners should use a company that will give them good service and pay their claims when they file one.
But there are some ways to keep the cost of car insurance down.
Michael Barry with the Insurance Information Institute says that consumers should take look at their deductibles first, which is what a person has to pay before their coverage kicks in.
“A lot of people keep that member at about $500,” he says. “If you were to up that to $1,000, that would immediately be a noticeable drop in your monthly premium.”
Barry also says that drivers should try not to make claims for small amounts. Drivers should also shop around for insurance, especially if they have bad credit. He says that some insurance companies will check credit scores, while others do not.
Insurance experts also say to insure your home and car with the same company because the company will usually give a discount.
Young drivers may also be able to apply for a good student discount if their school scores are decent.
Drivers should also keep track of the number of miles they drive each year. If that number is below 10,000 miles a year, make sure to let the insurance company know. The price may go down.