Your Smartphone Can Make Driving Easier

So, you jumped on the bandwagon and bought a Smartphone… so why not put it to good use while on the road? Here are five apps that can help make driving in California easier.

1. Google Maps

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iOS

Google Maps was the original mapping software, and it is still considered one of the best. It needs no introduction, and it remains the standard of Internet mapping. The only reason we feel the obligation to mention it is because it no longer comes standard on Apple devices. So be sure to download it before you leave the house.

2. DMV NOW

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DMV NOW is an app created and operated by the California Department of Motor Vehicles with a number of useful features. Drivers who are new to California can take practice tests to brush up on their knowledge of the state’s driving laws. Those who need to hand in forms or speak to DMV personnel at a field office can use the app to find the nearest DMV location and be informed as to what the current wait time is. App users can also access documents and videos that have been posted to the DMV’s website. Perhaps the most useful function though, is that SMS messages can be read aloud, so drivers do not text and drive.

3. Gas Buddy

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iOS

The website that so many of us use every day in order to save money on gas has a mobile version! Gas Buddy, for those unfamiliar with it, tracks fuel prices at gas stations across the country. So wherever you are, simply enter your location and the app will formulate a map showing you where gas stations are in your area and which ones are offering the cheapest prices. It is especially useful in California because the state typically has such high gas costs. It can also be used by tourists who are visiting the state and do not want to pay an arm and a leg in order to drive around and marvel at its wonders.

4. Find My Car

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Although several different companies make their own versions, each of these apps works essentially the same way. Wherever you park your car, note its location on the app’s map using GPS (perhaps a useful memo as well, like which level of a parking structure you left your car on). Then when it is time to return, the app uses your phone’s GPS locator to create a map that helps you to find your car. You will not realize how useful it is until the first time you use it.

5. iWrecked

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iWrecked is last, but certainly not least, because when the worst occurs and you find yourself in a car accident, it behooves you to have this particularly handy app on your phone. iWrecked contains a long, detailed checklist that assists you in obtaining all of the information you need in order to report an accident to your auto insurance company. You can take photos of the accident scene along with the specific damage to both your car and the other party’s vehicle. You can take down insurance information and even use the app to find police officers and towing facilities nearby so you can get your car off the road safely.

Also, remember to keep Auto Insurance Specialists stored in your contacts and saved in your phone’s Internet bookmarks. With AIS, if you’ve linked your account, you are able to go online and see information about your policy, such as your ID cards.

You should have driver-friendly apps handy no matter where you go, but it is also important for you to be able to reach your auto insurance company.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverage’s in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

Helpful Tips for Insuring Your Classic Car

It is likely safe to assume that you would not subject your classic car to rough off-road conditions, icy roadways, or harsh weather conditions. And, you most likely treat your vintage vehicle better than you do your work truck or family sedan. So why would you purchase a standard auto insurance policy for your one-of-a-kind classic? In the event of a claim, these regular policies might not pay anywhere close to what your classic car is worth if it were deemed a total loss.

That is why it is important to secure classic car insurance for your prized possession. Here are the dos and don’ts for getting the proper coverage.

1. DO know which type of “value” you are using to measure your vehicle’s worth. More specifically, you should know the difference between “actual cash value” and “agreed value.” When determining the “Aactual cash value” of your car, your insurance company will look at many factors that, together, represent the market value of your vehicle at the time of the loss. However, this does not always take into account any potential value- increasing customization that is done to the car. “Agreed value” is an amount upon which the insurer and owner agree that the car is worth. Knowing the difference is key when deciding how much coverage you need for your classic.

2. DO get your vehicle professionally appraised. Do not attempt to estimate what your classic car is worth on your own. It is difficult to calculate the value of a vintage vehicle, especially if it has been restored or customized, and your personal tie also influences what you may determine the car to be worth. Therefore, the opinion of a professional appraiser is essential to obtaining an accurate value. The figure he or she provides will help you to determine how much auto insurance coverage to purchase.

3. DO determine which category of “classic car” your vehicle is in. Here is a list of some common terms used for non-traditional auto insurance:

• Exotics – vehicles that are younger than 15 years old, but are appreciating in value

• Collectibles – vehicles that are 15-19 years old

• Classics – vehicles that are 20-24 years old

• Antiques – vehicles that are 25 years old or more

• Custom vehicles – vehicles that were produced since 1949 and have been altered mechanically or cosmetically

• Street rods – custom vehicles that were produced before 1949 and have been altered mechanically or cosmetically

4. DON’T ignore policy qualifiers and/or restrictions. In order to get classic car insurance for the cheapest rate, you may need a near-spotless driving record and/or to equip the vehicle or its place of storage with an anti-theft system. Furthermore, you may be prohibited from driving the car more than 2,500 miles a year or from taking it anywhere other than to and from a car show. Every policy is different, so be sure to check with your insurance company or agent about which rules apply to you.

5. DON’T settle for an outrageous rate quote. It is a myth that you have to pay a boatload of money for classic car insurance, even if the car is worth more than your regular vehicle. Premiums are based on claim risk, amongst many other factors, which is reduced if you do not drive the vehicle much and store it in a secure location. After all, you are less likely to get into an accident in your classic car if you do not use it as much as the vehicle you drive daily.

If you are interested in finding out how to easily insure your classic car and get the best rates, contact Auto Insurance Specialists today. We will help you find the  the right coverage for your individual needs.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverage’s in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

Your California Auto Insurance and Earthquake Damage – What Would Be Covered?

If you live in California, earthquakes are just a part of life. They can strike without warning and cause untold damage, or just annoyance. But, amid all the reports of structural damage and closed roads, what about your car?

Earthquakes and Your Vehicle

Although the words “earthquake damage” create an image of the Earth opening up and swallowing your car, in truth, this rarely happens. If it did happen, your car would most likely be totaled and, well, what happens next in terms of covering the loss would be determined by the policy coverage you had at the time.

But you should really be far more concerned about the earthquake damage you could be stuck paying for without the right insurance.

In most cases, earthquake damage strikes not from below but from above, in the form of objects falling on to your car. This can cause anything from chipped paint and broken glass to your car being completely destroyed if the falling object is big and heavy enough. If a tree falls on most cars, it’s unlikely to be repairable.

How Much Will It Cost?

The problem with this type of damage, especially with older cars, is that the damage often comes in at a total cost of repairs that’s only a bit more than your deductible, while well under your car’s total value. For example, if some falling debris hits your hood, it’ll likely ding the hood and chip the paint… and then may promptly bounce off into your windshield. This kind of damage will mean a pretty penny at the auto shop, and most of it will likely be coming out of your pocket, depending on your deductible amount.

Protecting Your Car (and Your Wallet)

There are two things you can do to ensure that earthquakes don’t wreck your car and your wallet: carry appropriate insurance and act to reduce your risk.

The first is fairly simple, surprisingly enough. All you need to do is obtain comprehensive insurance. “Comprehensive” coverage, as you may have guessed, covers a wide variety of scenarios involving damage to your car that aren’t covered under standard collision insurance. Important here is that comprehensive coverage usually covers damage to your car’s glass and paint, as well as fire, flood, vandalism, and impact with an animal.

You have heard that comprehensive insurance on a used car isn’t worth it, but take a second look before agreeing: It may protect you from a surprising degree of earthquake damage, and peace of mind may be worth the money.

As for reducing the risk of earthquake damage to your car, make sure and clean up objects near where you park, especially ones that may be above your car. Check to make sure items are secured and won’t fall off roofs or balconies. And, if possible, park as far away from buildings as you can.

If you want to make sure you’ve got insurance to cover many of the possibilities California may throw at you, contact AIS Insurance. For nearly half a century, we’ve been working with Californians to protect their cars, homes, businesses, watercraft and even weddings. AIS can help you find the best price on the best insurance for your needs.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverage’s in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

Follow These 10 Tips and Find the Best California Auto Insurance Rates

Do you know someone who is paying less for auto insurance than you are? Is there no obvious reason for the price disparity? Are you suspicious of how this person obtained his or her low rate?

The reality is probably simpler and a lot less sinister: the person knew the tricks for getting a lower auto insurance quote. But there’s no reason that this important knowledge should be kept secret. Here are ten “tricks of the trade” that could save you money on auto insurance.

1. Drive fewer miles. For many insurance companies, the threshold for lower premiums is 7,500 miles per year. If you currently drive 9,000 miles annually, carpooling or taking public transportation to work once a week could drop you below the 7,500 level. So make a pledge to do this, and your quotes will likely be lower.

2. Trade cars with your spouse. In the above example, if your spouse only drives 5,000 miles per year, swapping cars two or three times per week would allow both of you to drive fewer than 7,500 miles annually. Then you could benefit from lower rates on both vehicles.

3. Opt for a higher deductible. When you get a quote from an insurer, it is often computed on the assumption that you will pay a certain deductible in the event of a claim. But you can adjust that deductible upward if you like (say, from $250 to $500 or $1,000) and pay less in premium for your policy. Just be sure you fully consider that the higher deductible means that your out of pocket expense will be higher in the event of a covered loss.

4. Offer to pay up front. Almost every business likes to get money in its bank account sooner rather than later — and insurance companies are no different. If you are willing to pay for six months or a year’s worth of insurance in advance, you’ll likely get a lower quote than for a policy with monthly payments as you’ll avoid the typical installment fees that most carriers charge due to the additional paperwork and processing costs.

5. Bundle your policies. Consider your entire insurance coverage portfolio (homeowners, flood, earthquake, boat or RV, etc.). If you can purchase your auto insurance from a company you’re already doing business with, chances are good that the insurer may be able to offer you a price break in the form of a multi-policy discount.

6. Take an online drivers’ course. Insurance companies offer discounts of anywhere from 2% to 10% if you just complete a driver’s education course. Since these classes are widely available online, allocating four to eight hours (which can be spread over several days) for this type of instruction is definitely worth your time.

7. Invest in a security system. If your vehicle doesn’t already have an anti-theft system or vehicle theft locator device installed in it, consider having one put in. Auto insurance companies will give you a discount for vehicles with these types of systems.

8. Mention your vehicle’s safety features. When insurance companies assess your vehicle for its safety, they may not know about any additional safety features you may have opted for when buying it (like a reverse camera, anti-theft devices, or additional airbags). Pointing out these features may lower your auto insurance quote.

9. Study hard and excel in school. Full-time high school or college attendees are often eligible for good student discounts (usually an A or B average). So if you’re hitting the books, you’ll qualify for a cheaper insurance quote.

10. Ask about lower rates. It’s so simple, yet far too many people forget to do it. Simply asking how you can pay less for auto insurance may allow an insurer to find a discount or coverage arrangement that you hadn’t considered. After all, insurance companies want your business — and they’ll try to find ways to keep it.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverage’s in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

Health Insurance in California – What You Should Know

Obtaining health insurance can be a thorny, complicated job, even when you’re getting it on a group plan, through work. Not everybody, however, has that advantage.

If you’re buying health insurance on your own in California, it really just comes down to being smart about shopping; if you’re prepared, you’ll come out more satisfied. Here are five tips to help you find the best plan.

1. Run an Inventory of Your Health Needs and What You Can Afford

Start with the most basic fact of all: What product, precisely, do you need to buy? Inventory your pre-existing conditions, as well as the condition of the family members who will be covered by the plan, and think about the future. A young couple with a newborn is going to have far different medical needs compared to a middle-aged couple with a few teenagers running around the house, especially if those teenagers are prone to skateboarding.

2. Look Carefully at What You Can Afford

Similarly, you should look at your finances and think carefully about how much you can afford. We recommend against skimping and that you are realistic within the confines of your budget.

3. Check to See What Your Doctor Accepts… and What His Staff Likes

Contact your doctor’s office and find out to what networks he or she belongs to. And while you’ve got somebody from the doctor’s staff on the phone, tell them you’re looking for insurance plans and ask them if there are any insurers out there that you should look at or avoid. While you shouldn’t treat their advice as gospel, per se (when it comes to paying medical bills there are many sides to the story), it is useful to know who makes life easy for their customers and who might not be so great in that regard.

4. Don’t Look at Just the Deductible

Most of us look only at the overall deductible — and it is true that in many respects, the lower the deductible the better. But the deductible isn’t the only cost you’ll pay: Many plans have a low deductible but plenty of drawbacks that make them not worth it. For example, some low-deductible plans have high co-pays, or “co-insurance.” “Co-insurance” is essentially an agreement where you pay a percentage of any costs above your deductible to a maximum amount… if there is a maximum amount.

So if you have a $3,000 procedure and have a $1,000 deductible, you’ll pay $1,000… and then if you have 20% coinsurance, another $400 on top of that.

5. Trust Your Gut

If a deal sounds too good to be true, it very likely is. If you’ve never heard of an insurer, check up on them and ask for referrals.

If you’re worried about finding the right insurance for your family, call AIS Insurance. Through our trusted partner, we help Californians find, price, and buy the best health insurance for their needs. There’s no reason to go it alone when it comes to insurance: Call AIS today.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverage’s in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

Addressing Some Common Auto Insurance Myths

Today, you have the ability to go on the Internet and obtain a great deal of information about auto insurance. But that doesn’t mean everything you read is true. In fact, there’s a lot of misinformation floating around in cyberspace.

With that in mind, let’s bust ten commonly-heard myths about auto insurance.

1. Insurance rates always rise after a claim or traffic ticket. If you changed the word “always” to “typically,” then the statement would be true. But if you have a clean driving record, it’s possible that a single citation or minor accident won’t lead to a change in rates.

2. New cars will cost you more to insure than older ones. It depends on the vehicle. A new economy car with lots of safety features might carry a lower premium than a five-year old, high-powered sports car.

3. Less expensive cars are less expensive to insure. Again, make and model are more important factors. For instance, if a car has a lower sticker price but is stolen more often than a sport utility vehicle, then the SUV may cost less to insure.

4. Thieves tend to target newer cars, which means they are costlier to insure. Not really. Certain cars are more popular with car thieves because their parts are worth more money on the black market. That’s what insurance companies look at when setting rates.

5. Insurance rates are unaffected by factors like marital status and home ownership. Statistics show that married drivers and homeowners are typically involved in fewer accidents than their unmarried and renting counterparts. What’s more, adding a home or second vehicle to your policy helps you qualify for multi-policy discounts.

6. Full coverage means coverage on everything. The word “full” actually means “great, but not absolute.” In fact, full coverage may exclude things like rental car insurance, gap coverage, emergency road service, and uninsured motorist coverage. If you want these coverages, be sure to ask if they are included in your policy.

7. Auto insurance covers items inside your vehicle. If your car is stolen and your laptop is inside it at the time, or someone T-bones you and breaks a TV that’s in your trunk, those items likely aren’t covered by your car insurance (though they might be under your homeowners’ or renter’s policy).

8. You never need coverage for uninsured or underinsured motorists. Not true, and in some cases it may be a good idea. California is a tort state, meaning that the driver responsible for an accident pays all damages. But if that driver doesn’t have insurance (as is the case for 15% of California drivers), then your policy may not cover all the accident costs. This is where uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage would protect you.

9. Members of the armed forces pay more for car insurance than civilians. In fact, all military members qualify for an auto insurance discount. And if they are deployed overseas, they won’t be driving their vehicle as much, so their premiums will likely be lower anyway.

10. Car color impacts your auto insurance rates. You may have heard that red vehicles carry higher premiums because their drivers get more tickets, or black cars cost more to insure because they’re harder to see at night and are therefore involved in more crashes. But since no hard data exists to prove these assertions, color is not a factor in setting insurance rates.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverage’s in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

Referring a Friend Feels Good and Can Save You Money!

At AIS, we’ve found that the most effective form of advertising is our happy customers telling their friends about the great service they’ve received. And, of course, every time we get a referral, we ask what they’ve heard about us.

Here are a few reasons you should tell your friends about AIS insurance…

1. We’ll Look At Dozens of Insurance Providers to Find Your Friend the Best Deal

AIS Insurance is the “one-stop shop” for all kinds of insurance. Instead of having to go to multiple sites, or visiting sites that may present hard to understand “comparison quotes”, AIS goes to work for you!  We collect dozens of quotes from a variety of top insurance companies and offer the information to you, so you can see your options, and pick the quote that best fits your budget portfolio – saving you valuable time!  We find discounts from insurers, so that you never leave money on the table.

2. We Work Closely With Our Customers to Ensure They Get What They Need

AIS has been putting Californians on the road for nearly half a century, and one key lesson we’ve learned is that every customer has different needs when it comes to insurance. Some drivers just need a basic policy to get on the road; some drivers are concerned about personal liability or uninsured drivers hitting them; some drivers have a spotless driving record, but have a car on its last legs. We get all the information from our customers to ensure that they get the best quotes and that all of their needs are met before they get on the road.

3. We Help Californians Find All Kinds Of Insurance

We’re a lot more than just auto insurance: AIS has developed expertise in finding the best rates for businesses, homes, motorcycles, watercrafts, condos… we even offer wedding insurance for those worried about the big day!. Even better, our knowledge helps us find package deals that you may not be aware of, allowing you to drive down your overall rates while getting the quality insurance that you need.

4. We Make It Easy for Anyone to Adjust Their Policy as Their Needs Change

Once you have insurance through AIS, our website offers convenient self-service features 24/7. In addition to viewing your policy online, you can printing ID cards, or request changes such as updating your address, or adding a vehicle.  No lunch hours stuck on the phone – we give you the tools you need to keep your insurance up to date, and make sure it’s simple to do.

5. And, Of Course, We Reward Referrals

If you’ve been doing the work of finding us customers, we want to make sure you keep doing it. That’s why AIS has a generous referral program in place that rewards our customers for spreading the word about AIS. If you’d like to know more, speak with one of our customer licensed representatives.

AIS works hard to make sure you get the best insurance before getting on the road, buying a home, or getting on the water. So if you’re looking for a policy, call us today: We’ll find the best coverage at the best price for you today by shopping multiple companies.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverage’s in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

Get a Traffic Ticket? 6 Tips to Help Keep Your Rates Down

You’ve been busted. Maybe you were speeding. Maybe you didn’t come to a complete stop before making that right turn. Either way, it’s going to cost you.

You already have to pay the ticket. But is it possible to keep your car insurance premiums from going up as well? After all, each driver’s rates are assessed based on their driving record, and now you no longer have a “clean” record.

Here Are Five Ways to Help Minimize the Impact

1. Stick It Out with the Same Company

Loyalty is valuable in an age with so many options. It’s easy for customers to cancel a policy and take their business elsewhere. If you’ve been with the same company for a long time, a rate hike may be offset by accumulated discounts.

Insurance providers don’t raise rates after a ticket as punishment. Drivers who get tickets are more likely to be in an accident, so they’re a greater risk than those with clean records.

If the provider raises your rates, consider sticking it out. It might take a while, but your premiums will probably go back down. . In the interim, ask your company if there are other ways in which you can save on your premium. You may be surprised to find that most insurance companies will do as much as they can to help keep your rates down.

2. Don’t Get Another Ticket

Getting a traffic ticket is one thing, but don’t make a habit of it. It’s easy to go with the flow of traffic and miss a speed limit sign, especially in an area where the roads aren’t familiar. More than once or twice, and it becomes a pattern of risky driving behavior.

Some providers offer a grace or forgiveness plan to drivers with one or two incidents. If yours doesn’t offer it, check around for another provider that does.

3. Consider Contesting the Ticket.

Contesting the ticket works in some situations. An officer writing you a ticket doesn’t automatically mean it will hold up in court. Contesting the ticket might keep it off your record permanently.

4. Customize Your Policy

If your rates go through the roof after a ticket and you’ve got a comprehensive policy, talk with your provider about temporarily changing to a lesser plan. Vehicles that are paid off have more insurance wiggle room than those you’re still paying for.

Finance companies insist on full coverage to protect their interest in the vehicle. If you own the vehicle outright, a policy with all the bells and whistles isn’t mandatory.

But don’t go too far with a bare-bones plan. Although any insurance is better than none, too little is risky in the event of an accident.

5. Consider a Special High-Risk Company

If you’re getting nowhere with your current provider, shop around for a quote with a special high-risk insurer. Getting a quote isn’t a commitment, and it lets you know what the industry thinks about your ticket and what level of risk you represent.

High-risk providers are different from big-name providers that offer a high-risk plan. Because they focus on drivers with less-than-perfect records, they often have more options. The switch doesn’t have to be permanent; it can bridge the time between getting the ticket and having it removed from your record.

6. Traffic School Can Help

Traffic school isn’t just for people who’ve had a DUI or other serious incident. Enrolling in traffic school shows that you’re responsible.

Ask your provider whether taking a course would help your rates. Classes may be a couple of days or a few online sessions long, but the payoff could make you a more attractive customer and a better driver.

Car insurance is a part of life: if you’re on the road, you’ve got to have it. Most drivers will get a traffic ticket at some point, but being a smart consumer can help keep costs manageable.

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverage’s in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

Not All Companies and Insurance Products Are the Same

When people think about auto insurance companies, some of them think that the entire industry sells the same basic product that’s just marketed in different ways. Part of this assumption comes from a jaded view of the insurance industry in general, while another aspect may have more to do with the public’s limited understanding about how the insurance industry actually works.

Whatever is behind the “everyone’s the same” opinion of auto insurers, the fact remains that these companies are most definitely not the same. Here are five reasons why:

1. They go after different types of drivers. Believe it or not, drivers come in all “shapes and sizes” in the eyes of auto insurance companies. Some are careful drivers with spotless records, while others have a history of tickets, accidents, or DUIs. Some people are high-mileage drivers, while others have teenagers on their policies. And some policyholders need as much service as an insurer can provide, while others simply want the minimum protection required by law and to be left alone. Insurance companies sometimes tailor themselves to a certain classification of driver; and if you’re in that category, they may offer you a lower rate than another insurer.

2. They use different statistics and data. Some people may assume that all insurance companies assess risk (and therefore set premiums) by viewing the same information and making the same calculations to reach the same conclusions. This is simply not true. Like in other industries, insurers are looking for an edge over their competition; so they’re constantly trying to better assess risk and make higher profits. One way to do this is to tweak their risk-assessment algorithms or place more emphasis on certain types of data than others. This can lead to a wide variety of rates, business practices, and product offerings.

3. There are different types of companies. The organization and the makeup of an insurance company have a huge impact on how it does business. A publicly-traded company is accountable to its shareholders, so it may try to boost profit margins more than a privately-traded insurer (or a mutual company, which is actually owned by its policyholders). Also, some insurers may not be licensed to issue auto insurance in all 50 states because of regulatory differences or other reasons. Finally, auto insurers may offer several other types of insurance coverage (like home, flooding, or health), or simply stick to insuring cars.

4. They may emphasize some risk factors more than others. For example, if an insurance company has a higher rate of claims on full-size sport utility vehicles in a given ZIP code, you’ll probably be charged a higher rate by that company than many others if you own a large SUV in that geographic area. In fact, one recent study found that 48 different auto insurance companies charged different premium amounts for the same (hypothetical) 25-year old male Honda Accord driver living in Los Angeles with one ticket on his record. And the annual premiums varied by as much as $4,250!

5. They may provide different auto insurance policy choices. Some companies may just have one or two basic policies for a given type of driver, while others may offer a plethora of options. That’s one of the great things about an insurance agency like the Auto Insurance Specialists. Because AIS has access to dozens of different insurance companies, it can pick the policies that meet the specific needs of every single applicant. Furthermore, AIS usually provides quotes from several different companies to choose from, no matter what the applicant’s history, age group, or driving record may be. So whereas some auto insurance companies are like a burger joint with a limited menu, AIS is more like a grand buffet, which lets you pick out exactly what you want!

This content is offered for educational purposes only and does not represent contractual agreements. The definitions, terms and coverage’s in a given policy may be different than those suggested here and such policy will be governed by the language contained therein. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.

Discounts Are a Great Way to Save Money on Your Car Insurance

Sometimes, it pays to shake the car insurance apple tree to see which discounts fall out. After all, many aren’t even advertised. Here are four auto insurance discounts that just may surprise you.

1. Bundling Saves a Bundle

When it comes to discounts, company loyalty can really pay off. Most service-providing companies offer bundles, usually known as “multi-policy discounts”, designed to save the customer money and encourage company loyalty. With auto insurance, the savings is often substantial.

More than insuring all vehicles in the household with the same company, this discount encourages customers to also put their homes, personal property and life insurance in the hands of the same company.

Multi-policy discounts put big-name insurance companies on a more competitive plane with cheap insurers, which make this an attractive option.

2. A Paying Customer Is a Good Customer

Paying your bills on time is doubly important with car insurance, and it can lead to savings. Pay late, and you could lose more than affordable coverage; you might become uninsurable without a special high-risk and high-rate policy. Some insurance companies reward automatic withdrawal payments with lower rates.

Many insurance companies are also going green, which equals paperless billing. With this option, your monthly statement is emailed or downloadable at the company website.

Discounts for automatic payments and paperless billing might be small, but they add up over time. Combined with other discounts, they make a difference.

3. Stable Isn’t Boring; It’s Smart

You don’t have to insure your home and car with the same company to receive some discounts. Homeowners are viewed as lower risk customers.

Owning a home means the car insurance company knows you pay your bills and probably have a steady job. Married homeowners often get more savings, as marriage can mean two household incomes and even more stability.

Stable customers are low-risk customers, and insurance companies appreciate that.

4. Be Smart. It’s All It’s Cracked Up to Be

Being smart will get you far, even to the point of car insurance discounts. Some companies reward customers with advanced degrees, and some provide teen driver discounts when kids do well in school.

You don’t have to be a super-genius to earn this type of discount. Some are offered to sorority and fraternity members, employees of certain companies and other group memberships.

As with other signs of stability, membership in noteworthy organizations and good grades show that you have your ducks in a row.

While discounts always seem like a good thing, remember that percentage discounts at another company might not save you any money in the long run. If the company’s rates are 10% higher to begin with, a 10% discount puts you right back where you started.

When in doubt, ask your insurance company if there are other ways to save. Asking can’t hurt, and could add up to a better auto insurance quote and lower premiums. Auto Insurance Specialists shops multiple carriers for you and can help you find discounts you may not know about. AIS can help you find the best combination of rates, coverage and discounts so you get the best deal on your insurance.

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