AAA Helps Consumers Find Best Insurance Rates
Phoenix, Ariz., February 18, 2009. At a time when Arizonans are watching every penny, it’s imperative that consumers take advantage of the best insurance rates they can get – an effort that could not only enhance financial security, but also keep more money in their pockets at a time when they need it the most.
“Families get busy, and may consider checking their insurance rates a hassle,” said Brad Oltmans, vice president of insurance services for AAA Arizona. “However, those who take the time to review their policy will find that the little time required of them in the process is well spent, since asking their insurance agent a couple of key questions can help them save money at a time when everyone is cutting back on their spending.”
It’s vital that the search also compare coverage levels offered with each rate, as state minimums do not always cover the true expense of a vehicle and medical costs associated with a collision. And when seeking home insurance, always tally up belongings and report any new purchases, to be sure everything is covered. The best result for consumers is a policy at a great rate that also covers true expenses in the event it is used.
“One member recently saved $455 on her annual policy by switching to AAA Insurance after watching her premiums rise despite never being in a crash,” Oltmans said, adding, “She not only saved a substantial amount of money, but was surprise to learn she was able to do so while receiving better coverage.”
To help consumers find the best insurance rates, AAA Arizona has compiled the following list of tips for consumers:
- Ask for discounts! Many consumers may already qualify for discounts they have not thought to ask for, such as discounts for safe driving habits, customer loyalty or for holding an organizational membership or affiliation. AAA Arizona offers teenSmart, a comprehensive driver training program for teens and their parents that can earn families up to 30 percent off their insurance. In addition, the online Mature Driver Safety Course by I DRIVE SAFELY can earn seniors 5 percent off their insurance rates.
- Install security systems. A home or auto security system can help lower policies, from installing alarms that alert the police if disconnected at home, to etching your VIN number on vehicle windows.
- Combine policies. Combining policies can result in immediate discounts. Grouping multiple vehicle policies or an auto policy with home and life can help consumers achieve savings. By combining policies, consumers can save anywhere from12 to 15 percent on auto policies, and as much as 30 percent on homeowners’ insurance.
- Increase your deductible. An often unused way to decrease monthly payments is to increase your deductible, which is the amount of money a consumer must pay when filing a claim.
- Check your credit! Often, mistakes on a credit report or poor credit result in higher insurance rates. Consumers have the right to request a free credit report, and those who improve their credit rating should make their insurance agent aware to receive a better rate.
- Before you buy. Insurance rates can vary widely depending on the make and model of a vehicle, which means consumers looking to save should incorporate their insurance agent into their car buying process. It’s also important to check with your home insurance before making a purchase that may not be covered or may change premiums, including a pool, trampoline or even some canines. Insurance agents can help car buyers examine different rates based on their plans.
- Review your property values – if the estimated cost to rebuild your home in our current market has lowered, your insurance could as well. Contact your insurance agent for more information on your home’s rebuild value, which will be different than its appraised value.
“The most important thing to keep in mind is that you maintain sufficient coverage for your individual needs,” Oltmans said. “Many consumers face financial disaster by holding policies that don’t offer enough coverage for big emergencies.”
In an effort to encourage consumers to research their insurance options often as life changes, AAA Insurance is offering a $10 Target gift card for no-obligation quotes. For a limited time, consumers will also be entered into a weekly drawing for a $1,000 Target gift card. Consumers will be educated by trained agents on different rate options and what each covers. To get a free quote and gift card, consumers can visit their closest AAA branch office or call (800) INSURANCE.
AAA Arizona, the Arizona affiliate of AAA, provides automotive, insurance and auto travel services to nearly 800,000 Arizona members. Annually, AAA’s Emergency Road Service responds to more than 450,000 calls for help on the streets and highways of the state as well as providing insurance, travel, and financial services to AAA members and motorists. Since its founding in 1927, AAA Arizona has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.
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