New drivers invariably face steep car insurance rates due to a lack of experience. Your driving history is the #1-factor impacting rates. As a new driver with no experience, expect to pay higher initial premiums. But this over your first policy term by maintaining a clean record free of accidents, moving violations, and offenses like DUI. Drive defensively and avoid distractions to keep a violation-free history.
Take a defensive driving course
Many insurance carriers offer discounted rates for completing an approved defensive driving curriculum that shows commitment to safe habits. Driving courses are often available online for convenience. Refresh your knowledge periodically to continue qualifying for the safety course discount. Avoid adding multiple vehicles to your policy. Insurers view this as a higher risk and will apply surcharges. Stick to covering yourself on one family car at first.
Select a lower-risk vehicle
The car you drive impacts rates too. As a new driver, avoid opting for high-powered sports cars, which cost more to insure. Rather, choose a safety-focused sedan or family vehicle with a standard engine and inexpensive repairs. A vehicle with ample safety features score well too. Let your folks know you are opting for a “safe” car to keep insurance costs down.
Increase your deductible
Accepting higher deductibles means less premium outlay. Opting for a $500 or $1000 deductible reduces monthly payments, provided you have savings to cover the deductible if needed positions you as less of a risk to insurers.
Avoid coverage gaps
While minimum state liability insurance may seem tempting for the huge premium savings, coverage gaps spell financial disaster with just one accident. Strive to keep medical, uninsured motorist and collision on your policy despite the increased cost. Take advantage of any other discounts like a good student, completing driver’s ed, affinity memberships, paying in full, or bundling insurance products from the same provider. Every percentage matters when you start saving. how to buy car insurance in Thailand reach out to insurance companies that offer the type of coverage you’re interested in.
Regularly shop for better rates
As you gain experience years, your rates will incrementally decrease. But still, compare quotes from insurers periodically to ensure you have the best deal. Improved driving skills, new discounts, and life changes like marriage all potentially open doors for savings.
Maintain good credit
While you may not have much credit history as a new driver, keeping your report in good standing still factors favourably into insurance scoring models. Pay all bills on time and avoid unnecessary debts that damage your score. Every point counts.
Consider usage-based policies
Some insurers now offer policies priced based on actual vehicle usage and driving behaviors versus estimates. These usage-based options lower costs for less frequent drivers like students.
Drop comprehensive coverage on an older car
Once your vehicle becomes 5-7 years old, strongly consider dropping comprehensive and collision coverage to avoid overpaying on rapidly depreciating assets. Just retain liability coverage on older cars. As you get established in your career, periodically increase liability limits to provide stronger financial protection in the event of an at-fault accident involving injuries or major damage. Higher coverage costs are offset by career earnings.