California Car Insurance: Can You Lower Your Costs?

California car insurance rates have been a big issue since Insurance Commissioner Garamendi's proposal to reward good drivers with better rates. Despite the controversy and what both sides are saying, you may be wondering if there is something you can do to save on your California car insurance. Here are some tips.

California Car Insurance: Can You Lower Your Costs?

California car insurance rates have been a big issue since Insurance Commissioner Garamendi's proposal to reward good drivers with better rates. Despite the controversy and what both sides are saying, you may be wondering if there is something you can do to save on your California car insurance. Here are some tips.

What are your currently paying for? California law requires drivers to carry basic-liability policies with bodily injury liability of $15,000 per person, with a total of $30,000 coverage per accident for injuries sustained by others. It also requires $5,000 in property damage liability insurance for physical damage done to other property. Car insurance companies then offer additional coverages and convenience features such as comprehensive, towing and rental car reimbursement.

Do you really need all of those features? Added features on your policy often add to the cost. Carefully think through if you really need extra features like towing and rental reimbursement. If your driving habits make the need for a long-distance tow unnecessary, or you have alternatives to renting a car, you could save money and do without those extras.

Can you handle a higher deductible? The amount you pay before your collision or comprehensive coverages kick in is your deductible. Car insurance companies will give you a lower premium with a higher deductible. However, you want to make sure you can come up with the money for the deductible if necessary.

Are you missing out on any discounts? Shop around to find out what discounts are available and what you could be eligible for. Make sure the car insurance company or the agent knows about it. You could save money with good student discounts, combining your home and auto insurance, having an anti-lock brake system and more.

Comparison shop. This is one of the most important ways to make sure you're getting the best value on your car insurance. In fact, you might be surprised at how car insurance costs can vary between companies. Get at least three different quotes. Make sure you are comparing the same coverages and features between quotes or your comparison won't be accurate.

Scott Lunt is a freelance writer with over 15 years experience writing insurance-related articles. You can compare California car insurance quotes and find more tips on saving on car, home, life, health and long-term care insurance at LowerYourInsurance.com.