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Insurance companies often view couples as less risky. Combining your policies can lower fees without affecting the quality of coverage. Keep reading to discover the reasons behind lower auto insurance costs for married couples and how to take advantage of this benefit.
Key Factors
Couples are often perceived to be more financially stable due to their combined incomes and additional insurance availability, such as adding health coverage and homeowners insurance. Having multiple vehicles could also lead to less expensive auto insurance, depending on the vehicles you own.
Even if you’re married and have insurance, your insurance company won’t automatically cover your spouse unless you add him or her to your policy. Therefore, contact your insurance provider to make your spouse an authorized driver.
Driving Less Often
One reason married people pay less for auto insurance is that couples often share their daily responsibilities. For example, if you need to go to the store but the location is further away, you can switch that responsibility with your spouse. If it’s quicker for your partner to visit the store, it decreases your time on the road.
Additional miles to drive and higher risks associated with more frequent trips could increase your policy costs. However, you and your spouse are more likely to reduce those insurance rates by sharing responsibilities. Doing so will shorten your commutes and give you more time to focus on other responsibilities.
Reasons Insurance Might Increase
Even though providers often offer more affordable car insurance rates to couples, this isn’t always the case. Some factors could cause joint coverage to increase significantly, such as you or your partner having a poor driving record or a low credit score. The type of vehicles you own could also lead to higher coverage rates, particularly if the cars are more expensive or made with difficult-to-replace parts and technology.
Even though discounts are available for couples, these setbacks could make finding affordable options more difficult. However, taking a defensive driving course, boosting your credit rating, avoiding DUI convictions, minimizing or having no traffic violations, and considering usage-based programs are ways to improve a driving record. After doing so, you can inquire about discounts and benefits to add yourself or your spouse to the policy.
Steps to Take
You and your spouse should thoroughly research insurance policies before selecting a plan. This means connecting with trustworthy insurance providers and learning about their policy options. Based on your driving record, representatives will decide if you meet the low-risk requirements.
Remember to also ask about requirements and disadvantages that might play a role in your expenses. Find out if you must be married and for how long, and ask if you can be dating but living under the same roof. Knowing the requirements lets you discover if adding a loved one to your policy is the best choice or if you should maintain single coverage.
Drivers who are searching for affordable, reliable auto insurance should reach out to the friendly agents at Altra Insurance Services. In addition to auto coverage, we offer a variety of insurance policies, including motorcycle, business, and homeowners insurance. San Diego residents can call one of our knowledgeable team members today for a free quote.