Automobile insurance is a necessity for anyone who drives. In order to get the best rates, most people know they should have a clean driving record, but there are other ways you can save on your monthly car insurance premium that might surprise you. The next time you contact an auto insurance company for a quote, keep a few of these things in mind.

Good Credit Matters

If you have good credit, it can actually help you save on car insurance. People with good credit have a proven track record of being responsible, which can also reflect on their driving style and abilities. Insurance companies also see a pattern with people who have less than stellar credit and filing claims. In other words, those with good credit are typically less likely to file an insurance claim. This gives the auto insurance companies incentive to offer those people lower rates.

Less Miles = Less Money

When you get a quote for car insurance, you might be asked how many miles you typically drive in a week, month, or year. This is because people who drive less can qualify for lower rates. Insurance is based on risk, therefore the less someone drives, the smaller the odds that they'll be involved in an accident. If you use your car to run short errands and drive back and forth to work with a short commute, you may be eligible for lower rates.

Car Features

If your car has an anti-theft device built in or other features like anti-lock brakes, notify your insurance company. Many auto insurance companies offer discounts for extra safety and theft protection features. It is up to you, the consumer, to let them know about any and every possible extra feature your vehicle has. You should be able to get a discount for these items, which can really add up.

Higher Deductible, Lower Rate

There are usually "standard" deductibles set in place by insurance companies, but if you ask to pay a higher deductible, it can lower your monthly premium significantly. Just keep in mind that if you do happen to get into a fender bender or a serious accident, you'll be left with the higher bill. For people who are confident drivers or who would rather pay the higher deductible if the time comes, it can be beneficial when it comes to paying less for your insurance each month. Ask your agent about paying a lower monthly rate in exchange for a higher deductible.

For more information, contact Austin Insurance or a similar company.