Do Car Insurance Rates Ever Go Down?

It seems prices on just about everything are rising. It can make us feel a little helpless. When it comes to your car insurance rates, however, there may be hope ahead. Here are some instances and circumstances when car insurance rates may actually go down.

When in the 18-19 year Range

If you have a new teenage driver, hang in there. If they can keep a clean driving record for just a few years, you could see a rate reduction when they reach their upper teens. Once new teen drivers have proven themselves, some car insurance companies provide relief.

At Age 25

Generally, car insurance rates can be expected to be lower once a driver reaches 26 years old. This is the point where car insurance premiums may begin to level off.

You Get Married

When you get married, be sure to contact your independent car insurance agent. It is a good time to update any name changes, and it just may qualify you for lower auto insurance rates.

Your Driving Record Improves

As traffic violations expire from your driving record, you could expect improved car insurance rates. These discounts can be dramatic for high-risk drivers who have proven that they can keep their driving record clean.

You Move

Auto insurance rates are affected by where the car is kept. If you move to a different state or even a new neighborhood, your car insurance rates could go down. Of course, it’s possible your rates could also increase when you relocate.

Comparing Rates

One of the best ways to save on your car insurance costs is to compare rates. One of the easiest ways to do this is through one of our independent insurance agents. Answer just a few questions, and our agents will search multiple companies to find the most competitive rates. Some discover savings, and others find better coverage. You may be able to secure both. You can compare rates at any time and at any age, no matter what your driving record may be. Contact us to get started.

Comparing car insurance rates and even switching companies is easier than many people believe. We can help. Reach out to one of our independent auto insurance agents today.

Six Easy Tips to Safer Driving

It has been said that one of the best ways to save money on car insurance is to become a safer driver. Being a safer driver, however, may not have an immediate impact on your rates. Some car insurance companies offer driving monitoring devices and apps that can provide some more immediate impact, but restoring a clean driving record can take time. Here are some easy-to-implement safe driving tips you can begin using today.

Drive Safely Intentionally

Many of us get behind the wheel with a million things on our mind. We may have a schedule to keep and errands to run. We should all take a few seconds to remind ourselves that our main goal is to get to our destination safely. This can be done by adjusting your seat belt, mirrors, and checking the fuel level before putting the car in “Drive”.

Drive Like the Car Behind You is Law Enforcement

Have you ever noticed how much more carefully you drive with a police car in your rearview mirror? Odds are, you won’t be on your phone, and you may have two hands on the wheel. You certainly won’t speed.

Become Familiar with the Vehicle

Driving a rental or borrowed car provides additional challenges to safe driving for several reasons. You may not be familiar with how the car “feels” at certain speeds. You may not be familiar with how to work the wipers, lights, or cruise control. The infotainment system may be confusing. When driving an unfamiliar vehicle, take the time to get used to its controls before pulling away.

Avoid Driving at Night

Accidents increase dramatically after dark, especially in the late-night hours. Many drivers, especially as they age, can have challenges seeing clearly in the dark. If this doesn’t include you, it could include other drivers on the road.

Avoid Driving in Bad Weather

Wet, snowy, or icy roads can be hazardous. Even a small amount of rain mixed with oils and chemicals on the roads can make them slick. This can be particularly true after extended dry periods. If you don’t have to drive in inclement weather, don’t. It could make you a safer driver.

Let It Go

Does your blood pressure rise when someone cuts you off? Frustrated by a driver who waits just a second too long when the light turns green? Want to shout “Get off the phone!” when passing a slow or erratic driver? One key to becoming a safer driver is to take a breath and let it go. The other person may not even know their actions offended anyone and be oblivious. But it may impact your attitude and safe driving habits for ten or twenty minutes.

Are you paying too much for your auto insurance? How would you know unless you compare? We can help with one call. Our independent insurance agents can check our network of companies for options to fit your budget. Contact us today.

Six Easy Tips to Safer Driving

It has been said that one of the best ways to save money on car insurance is to become a safer driver. Being a safer driver, however, may not have an immediate impact on your rates. Some car insurance companies offer driving monitoring devices and apps that can provide some more immediate impact, but restoring a clean driving record can take time. Here are some easy-to-implement safe driving tips you can begin using today.

Drive Safely Intentionally

Many of us get behind the wheel with a million things on our mind. We may have a schedule to keep and errands to run. We should all take a few seconds to remind ourselves that our main goal is to get to our destination safely. This can be done by adjusting your seat belt, mirrors, and checking the fuel level before putting the car in “Drive”.

Drive Like the Car Behind You is Law Enforcement

Have you ever noticed how much more carefully you drive with a police car in your rearview mirror? Odds are, you won’t be on your phone, and you may have two hands on the wheel. You certainly won’t speed.

Become Familiar with the Vehicle

Driving a rental or borrowed car provides additional challenges to safe driving for several reasons. You may not be familiar with how the car “feels” at certain speeds. You may not be familiar with how to work the wipers, lights, or cruise control. The infotainment system may be confusing. When driving an unfamiliar vehicle, take the time to get used to its controls before pulling away.

Avoid Driving at Night

Accidents increase dramatically after dark, especially in the late-night hours. Many drivers, especially as they age, can have challenges seeing clearly in the dark. If this doesn’t include you, it could include other drivers on the road.

Avoid Driving in Bad Weather

Wet, snowy, or icy roads can be hazardous. Even a small amount of rain mixed with oils and chemicals on the roads can make them slick. This can be particularly true after extended dry periods. If you don’t have to drive in inclement weather, don’t. It could make you a safer driver.

Let It Go

Does your blood pressure rise when someone cuts you off? Frustrated by a driver who waits just a second too long when the light turns green? Want to shout “Get off the phone!” when passing a slow or erratic driver? One key to becoming a safer driver is to take a breath and let it go. The other person may not even know their actions offended anyone and be oblivious. But it may impact your attitude and safe driving habits for ten or twenty minutes.

Are you paying too much for your auto insurance? How would you know unless you compare? We can help with one call. Our independent insurance agents can check our network of companies for options to fit your budget. Contact us today.

Vehicle Manufacturing Quirks of Which You May Not Be Aware

The automotive industry is full of interesting stories and quirks. Here are a few you may have missed.

The Original Ford Mustang

Lee Iacocca based his vision of the original Ford Mustang on the frame of the existing Ford Falcon. This made it easier to introduce quickly to the market and made it more affordable. The final model year of the Falcon was 1970.

The PT Cruiser

The Chrysler PT Cruiser was actually considered a truck by the NHTSA. It was designed as such to help Chrysler meet its overall corporate fuel mileage average for the EPA. It was built on a heavily modified platform that was used for the Dodge Neon. By the way, PT stands for personal transport.

The Ford F150 Pickup

In 1975, Ford introduced the F150 to fill a gap between the F100 and the F250. The F150 was also made to help Ford meet increasingly stringent EPA rules, but it turned out to be a marketing genius. The F Series trucks started their reign in 1948.

A New Car Smell is Neither Good nor Healthy

That new vehicle aroma many consumers love is actually a mix of smells produced by benzene, plastics, polyethylene, glues, and fabrics. Some believe extended exposure to these smells could be harmful.

Fiat

You may be driving a Fiat and not know it. Many brands now fall under the Fiat umbrella including Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, and Jeep.

Manufacturers May Buy Their Own Cars to Improve Sales

Some manufacturers have been known to buy a large number of new models to help establish a successful new car sales trend and to boost consumer appeal. The process is known as punching, and these cars are frequently resold later as pre-owned vehicles to consumers.

Engine Sound Is Orchestrated

Like its styling, a vehicle’s engine sound is designed for maximum appeal for its intended market. It has little to do with its performance. Manufacturers know which vehicles can benefit from a quiet engine and which ones need something more. Engine sound is not an accident.

Would you be adequately covered in a car accident, even if it involved an uninsured motorist? Our independent auto insurance agents can help determine your present coverage and see where you may be at risk. They can search our network of companies to find competitive pricing while possibly improving your coverage. Contact us today for your no-obligation review and price quote.

Bigfoot and the Inception of Monster Trucks

Today, Monster Jam shows fill stadiums across the world over 300 times a year. The events, known for their giant monster trucks, involve tons of dirt and dozens of junk cars for the mechanical beasts to crunch, climb, and soar over. These spectacles, however, can trace their history to the creation of a modified pickup truck, created as a promotional vehicle for a parts store in Missouri. Monster truck madness all started with Bigfoot.

The OG Bigfoot was a 1974 Ford F250 pickup that was converted with large tires, bigger axles, and a raised chassis. What started as a fun and interesting promotional project kept growing and growing. As drive trains and pieces broke, they were constantly replaced by bigger, heavier, and more durable parts. By 1979, Bigfoot had evolved into the nation’s premier monster truck. It was making national appearances, had fan clubs, and was making money through licensing deals. Others took notice.

Chevrolet came up with USA-1 to challenge Bigfoot, with some success. Monster truck racing became a thing. In 1983, USA-1 and Bigfoot took their feud to national television with an episode on the popular That’s Incredible show. The pair would continue as rivals through the 1990s.

Bigfoot is used mainly for displays and special events. There are actually five Bigfoot models on tour today, with seven drivers on the team. It still wows crowds across the country and is a fan favorite.

Modified, customized, and raised trucks are almost commonplace on the roads today. Some of these “daily drivers” could compete with the original Bigfoot. Owners are certainly making significant investments in their trucks through lift kits, massive bumper upgrades, larger rims and tires, and LED lighting.

If you have a lifted, modified pickup truck, make sure it is properly insured to protect your investment.

Our independent car insurance agents can search our network of companies to find specialized coverage for your vehicle. A standard insurance policy may not be enough for your modified truck. Contact us today for your free quote. We can keep you truckin’ on!

What You Don’t Know About Car Insurance Companies

If you had to guess how many car insurance companies insure automobiles in the United States, how many would you guess? Dozens? Hundreds? A few thousand? The fact is, there are over 5,000 car insurance companies in the country. If you give it some thought, you may be able to name ten or twenty of them. That means there are thousands of car insurance companies you have never heard of. With that being said, what are the odds you have chosen the best company at the best price for you? Furthermore, how do you get a quote from these smaller, yet trusted companies?

The answer is an Independent car insurance company.

While the big, brand-name companies are certainly successful and conduct their share of business, there are plenty of companies that provide reliable protection. Many of these companies have generations’ worth of experience and pride themselves on personal, professional service and innovative products. Many of these companies are available through your independent insurance agent.

A lot of these companies specialize in unique vehicles, like classic or collector vehicles. Some provide insurance protection for high-risk drivers. Still others insure high-value super cars. Most, however, insure everyday drivers in everyday cars.

The point is, beyond the large, big-brand companies that offer car insurance, there are thousands of other choices. We can help you sort through many of them to find the one that fits your needs and budget.

How do you get started? Contact us and provide some basic information. We will search our network of these independent insurance companies (and some big ones too) and provide you with some coverage and pricing options. You may be able to find a better price or improve on the coverage you have for a similar price. You make the final choice.

Let us help open up the world of car insurance choices to you. Contact us for a no-obligation quote today. With over 5,000 choices, why limit yourself?

Six Tips to Sell Your Car for More

Car-buying services have become an increasingly popular way to sell cars. You can call or go online, enter some details, and they promise you a quick pickup and a check. The challenge is that these buying services can quickly reduce offers if they see an unreported nick or dent or if mileage is under-reported. Offers are often low-ball, bottom-line ones, allowing them to resell your vehicle at a profit.

If you want to get the most from selling your car, try these six tips.

Sell It Yourself

It takes time, effort, and maybe a few no-shows, but selling a car to a private individual on your own can help maximize your return.

Sell a Clean Car

Take the time to clean your car thoroughly, inside and out. Clear and clean out the trunk, windows, tires, interior, and upholstery. Make sure your car smells nice and fresh.

Keep Maintenance Records

Maintenance records can demonstrate that you have taken care of the vehicle and can build trust. Make sure you are protecting any personal information that may be on receipts.

Change the Oil

Even a casual car buyer may take the time to check the oil when considering purchasing a used car. When they see that clean, clear 10W40 on the dipstick, it just may help you get the price you want.

Listen to Your Running Car

Over time, you become familiar with your car and the noises it makes. These may be normal to you but may sound alarms to a potential buyer. Slight tapping may indicate it is low on oil. Squealing may be a sign of a worn belt. The sound may be an easy and inexpensive fix.

Check Electronics and Mechanicals

Make sure everything works, especially if fixes are affordable. Check the windows, lights, blinkers, and infotainment features. Avoid the embarrassment of them discovering these issues on their own.

Selling or buying a car? Now’s a great time to start exploring what other insurance companies may offer. Our independent insurance agents can help you do just that. If you want to make the most of your next automobile transaction, include an auto insurance and price quote in the process. Reach out to us today.

Car Detailing Tips to Keep Your Car Looking Great

Car finishes today are so advanced, and an occasional car wash can keep them looking great for years. But if you really want to step up the appearance of your car, you may want to have it detailed once in a while. Detailing is an up-close and personal, deep cleaning of your vehicle that can have it looking brand new. Here are some detailing tips you can do yourself.

Use an Old Toothbrush

An old toothbrush can be your best friend when detailing a car both inside and out. It can allow you to get into vents, in close to trim, and around knobs.

Pay Attention to Wheels and Tires

Some complex wheel designs can make keeping them clean challenging, but it can be worth it. Use an appropriate wax or polish. Clean tires with a brush, dry them, and apply a tire shine product to give them a like-new appearance. Clean and shine tires around the first couple of inches onto the tire treads.

Clean Foggy Headlight Covers

Age, the sun, dust, and road chemicals can all create foggy headlights that can diminish their effectiveness and appearance. There are expensive products and buffers you can buy to clean foggy headlight covers, but often a mildly abrasive toothpaste and soft cloth can do the job. Simply buff the toothpaste into the cover using circular motions until it dries and then buff it off. Depending on how foggy your headlights are, it could take several applications.

Clean Door jams and Rubber Seals

Even the most spotless of cars can lose their luster if the door jams are dusty, dirty, or have leaves trapped in them. Take the time to clean and dry door jam areas with the door open, and use a protectant to shine and keep rubber seals flexible.

Pay Attention to Windows

Some car designs make cleaning interior windshields challenging. Make the effort to carefully reach into corners. Be sure to slightly roll downside windows to clean and dry widow tops and edges.

If you take pride in your car, you want to protect it. Our independent car insurance agents can help with a no-cost, no-obligation insurance review and price quote. Contact us, answer a few questions, and we’ll even help you with switching your coverage. Get started today!

Car Insurance Myths

As long as car insurance has been around, there are still many misconceptions about this valuable coverage. Here are some common myths regarding auto insurance.

MYTH: You have no control over your car insurance rates.

Not true. You can start by driving safer. You can explore discounts. You can drive a safer car. You can raise your deductibles. You may even be able to take a driving course to earn savings. There’s more you can do than you may think.

MYTH: Car insurance companies are all the same.

Car insurance companies can vary dramatically, including their service, response, and even rates. Some offer discounts for monitored driving. It can pay to look around.

MYTH: You should stay with the same car insurance company year after year.

It is far better to compare rates annually. Car insurance companies know drivers don’t like to search for different insurance coverage. This can lead to rates that creep up year after year.

MYTH: Changing car insurance companies is a hassle.

Changing car insurance companies may only take minutes, and one of our independent insurance agents can help. It is usually easier than most believe.

MYTH: State Minimums are adequate.

Car insurance state minimums are generally adequate to keep you driving legally, they may not be sufficient to protect you. Consider raising your coverage limits and/or adding uninsured driver’s coverage. The added expense may be less than you may think.

MYTH: Insurance agents are all the same.

Car insurance agents generally fall into one of two broad categories. They may be captive agents or independent agents. Captive agents represent the products of one brand or company. Independent agents represent the insurance products of multiple companies. Independent insurance agents can offer more choices and frequently better value.

When comparing car insurance rates, it is important to include quotes from an independent agent. In essence, they can do the shopping for you. Contact one of our independent insurance agents today for your no-obligation review and price quote. Put the myths aside and start saving by contacting us today.

Car Horn Laws and Etiquette

Car horns have been around as long as cars themselves. They quickly became necessary components of early cars when people weren’t used to seeing them on the road. Back then, steering, brakes, and drivers were a lot less reliable, and accidents were frequent. Today, however, working car horns are a required element of all roadworthy vehicles.

We’ve all been on either the receiving or sending end of a car horn while driving. Today, it is frequently used to alert distracted drivers that the light has just changed. But are there laws governing vehicle horns and their use? Are there certain etiquette standards for using a car horn? Can a car horn be too loud?

What Is the basic purpose of a horn?

It is designed to serve as a warming device to other drivers. If you are not using it as a warning, you are probably using it wrongly and possibly illegally.

Can I use a horn to say “I’m here” or “Goodbye” when visiting friends?

Technically no. Some communities even have noise laws banning such use throughout the overnight hours.

So blowing horns during a wedding procession is illegal?

Yup. Although a case could be made that it serves as a warning.

Can a horn be too soft or too loud?

Most states say that horns must be able to be heard under normal traffic conditions up to 100 feet away. After-market horns that are loud and sound like a ship’s horn, train horn, or semi-tractor horn are illegal in most states.

Can I blow my horn at an inattentive driver at a stoplight?

Technically, it can be illegal, but unless there is a policeman in front of you, you likely won’t be cited. Care should be taken to keep horn use short and “friendly.”

Why do people six cars back blow their horns as soon as the light turns green?

Dunno.

Some people get triggered by a car horn, even if they deserve the horning. It can pay to have a bit of patience and keep any horn usage to a “toot.”

Consider this a friendly reminder that if you haven’t compared auto insurance rates in a year or more, now may be a good time. Our independent car insurance agents have access to a network of companies. This allows them to compare rates in search of your best value. Getting started is easy. Just contact us, answer a few simple questions, and we’ll take it from there. Of course, the final decision is always yours. We look forward to assisting you.