5 Ways to Lower Your Car Insurance Premium in Bend, Oregon
Car insurance premiums can be a significant expense, but there are several ways to reduce the cost, especially for residents in a city like Bend, Oregon. From adjusting your coverage to taking advantage of discounts, here are five effective strategies to lower your car insurance premium:
Bundle Insurance Policies
One of the most straightforward ways to lower your car insurance premium is to bundle your auto insurance with other policies, such as homeowners or renters insurance. Many insurance companies offer discounts when you purchase multiple types of insurance through them. In Bend, where many residents own homes or rent properties, this is a great opportunity to consolidate policies and save. Not only can bundling make managing your insurance simpler, but the savings can be substantial—sometimes as much as 25% off your total premium.
Maintain a Clean Driving Record
Your driving history plays a crucial role in determining your insurance premium. If you have a record free of accidents, speeding tickets, or other violations, insurers will view you as a lower-risk driver, which results in lower rates. In Bend, where there can be variable weather conditions—especially in the winter—safe driving habits are even more essential. Avoiding accidents and violations over a period of time can lead to significant discounts on your policy. Some companies even offer safe-driving incentives, such as accident forgiveness programs or discounts for drivers who use telematics devices to monitor their driving behavior.
Increase Your Deductible
Another way to reduce your car insurance premium is by opting for a higher deductible. The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance covers the rest of the claim. By choosing a higher deductible, you take on more financial responsibility in the event of an accident, but in return, your monthly or annual premium will be lower. This is a common strategy for drivers in Bend who are confident in their driving skills and who may not expect to file a claim regularly. However, it’s important to make sure you can afford to pay the higher deductible if an accident does occur.
Take Advantage of Discounts
Insurance companies often provide various discounts that can significantly reduce premiums. These discounts may include safe driver discounts, good student discounts, military discounts, or discounts for installing anti-theft devices in your vehicle. In Bend, where outdoor activities and long-distance driving to explore the surrounding natural areas are common, consider asking your insurer about low mileage discounts. Some companies reward drivers who drive fewer miles annually, which may apply to those who work remotely or don’t commute far. Additionally, signing up for defensive driving courses can often lead to additional savings.
Review Your Coverage Regularly
Many people stick with the same insurance coverage for years without reviewing or updating it. However, it’s essential to periodically reassess your policy to ensure you’re not paying for coverage you no longer need. For instance, if you drive an older car that isn’t worth much, you might consider dropping comprehensive or collision coverage, which could significantly reduce your premium. Residents of Bend who don’t drive as often or use public transportation for commuting may also be able to adjust their coverage to reflect their reduced risk. Keeping your policy up to date with your current situation can help you avoid overpaying.
Contact Us
By bundling insurance policies, maintaining a clean driving record, increasing your deductible, taking advantage of discounts, and reviewing your coverage regularly, you can significantly lower your car insurance premium in Bend, Oregon. Each of these strategies allows you to optimize your policy for your specific needs and lifestyle, ultimately saving you money while ensuring you’re adequately covered.
To get an affordable insurance quote, contact us today by calling (541) 318-8835 or click here to connect with us online.