Insurance Insights

January 16-22, 2017

Tips to save on car insurance

By Allen Kerr

With the new year starting, many Arkansans will soon be up for renewing their car insurance polices.  I strongly encourage Arkansas consumers to review their current coverage, shop around, and ask their agents questions about their policies.  These are the easiest and most important ways drivers can ensure they’re getting the best price for their coverage needs.

I am encouraging Arkansans to follow these simple tips to help keep your auto premiums down:

Maintain a good driving record.  A lack of moving violations over time and no at-fault accidents can result in lower premiums for auto insurance.

Consider raising your deductible.  If you can absorb a larger out-of-pocket payment in the event of an accident, raise your deductible.  However, if you have a lien on your vehicle, check with your lienholder first.

Ask your agent about what discounts may be available to you.  If you have multiple cars, combine your auto and homeowners insurance with the same company, or have safety or theft-protection devices on you car, you might qualify for a discount.

The Arkansas Insurance Department offers an online brochure to help you compare prices.  Please visit http://insurance.arkansas.gov/Consumers/Auto.pdf to download your brochure, or call our Consumer Services Division at 800-852-5494 to have a copy mailed to you or discuss any issues with your auto insurance policy.

Another place for useful information is the Insure U website, www.InsureUOnline.org, which provides insurance information for various life situations. This site is maintained by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners and offers information like “10 Things You Should Know About Buying Auto Insurance.”

It is my pleasure to continue to serve you as your Insurance Commissioner.  For more information on the Arkansas Insurance Department, please visit http://insurance.arkansas.gov, follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/ARInsuranceDept and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/ArkansasInsuranceDepartment.  

Allen Kerr was appointed Arkansas Insurance Commissioner on Jan. 13, 2016, by Governor Asa Hutchinson.