5 Things That Can Make Your Car Insurance Rates Go Up
Nobody wants to open up their car insurance bill and see a rate increase. Unfortunately, this can happen when you least expect it. If you know what factors can raise your car insurance rates, you will be less surprised. Here are five things that can make your car insurance rates go up.
Increasing Your Commute to Work
If you got offered a job that requires a longer commute, it can make your auto insurance rates go up. When you have to drive a longer distance to work every day, many insurance companies think you are more likely to get into an accident. Before you accept that new job, think about how it will affect your car insurance rates.
Lowering Your Credit Score
Believe it or not, your credit score can actually affect your credit score. If your credit score recently took a hit, your car insurance rates could go up. Some insurance companies think people with low credit scores are irresponsible and do not pay their bills on time. To prevent this from happening, remember to pay all of your bills on time and do not take on too much debt.
Purchasing a New Car
A newer car is worth more money than an older car, so it will naturally cost more money to insure. If you decide to buy a nicer car, expect your auto insurance rates to get more expensive.
Living in an Urban Area
If you live in an urban area, you will likely be charged higher car insurance rates than someone who lives in the country. Since urban areas have more vehicles, insurance companies may believe you are more likely to be involved in a car accident.
Being in a Certain Profession
It might not seem fair, but your profession can affect how much your car insurance costs. Doctors, lawyers, architects, real estate brokers, executives and salespeople normally get charged higher rates because their jobs are stressful. If you are under a lot of stress and do not get much sleep, you are more likely to get into a car accident on the road.
As you can see, a number of different factors can increase your car insurance rates. If your auto insurance rates recently went up, you should make an appointment with your insurance agent soon. Your insurance agent, such as someone from Affordable Insurance, can explain why your auto insurance went up and offer suggestions on how to lower it.