REPORT: Car insurance rates up in past year, how to save on policies

WASHINGTON ( DC News Now ) — The latest Consumer Price Index report signaled car insurance rates increased 16% in the last year, but that doesn’t mean it’s the end of the road to save money.

The average annual premium people pay in the DMV is $2,098 in Virginia, $2,539 in DC and $2,609 in Maryland, according to Bankrate .

After putting gas in your car and making monthly car payments, Rod Griffin, senior director of public education and advocacy for Experian, suggests consumers “use your buying power” to find lower insurance rates.

He said consumers should shop around at least every six months to find a lower rate.

When shopping for policies, consider checking sites that promote their tools to monitor rates, like NerdWallet, Experian and MarketWatch.

Keep in mind that it’s not just your credit score and driving habits that determine individual policies. Other factors to take into account include the number of drivers nearby, accidents in your zip code and whether cars are being broken into or stolen.

“[Look] at higher deductibles potentially, if that will work for you. That will mean more out-of-pocket if you have to make a claim, but it can reduce the monthly premiums that you pay, or your annual premium,” Griffin suggested.

Insurers also offer discount programs that reward good driving habits, tracking, for example, soft braking, how fast drivers take turns and acceleration rates.

The better you drive, the more you’ll save. Keep in mind that bad driving could result in a penalty.

“For some people it makes sense, others might not be comfortable with that,” Griffin added.

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