As a wife and mother of four children with varying driving ages, finding affordable car insurance is always at the top of my priority list. With teenagers who are just starting to drive and a husband who commutes long distances for work, it’s essential for our family to have reliable coverage that doesn’t break the bank. That’s why I decided to do some research on cheap car insurance in Orange Cove, CA, and compare quotes from the best companies in the area.
When comparing insurance carriers, I looked at five national companies and their average annual premium costs. It’s important to note that these prices can vary based on a variety of factors, including driving history, credit score, and the type of coverage needed. However, as a general guide, here are the average annual premium costs for each of the five companies:
1. State Farm – $1,200
2. Geico – $1,150
3. Progressive – $1,300
4. Allstate – $1,400
5. Farmers – $1,250
After comparing these rates, I found that Geico offered the most affordable coverage for our family’s needs. Their reputation for excellent customer service and competitive prices made them the perfect choice for us.
In our household, we have six vehicles that require insurance coverage. My husband drives a reliable sedan for his daily commute, while I prefer a spacious SUV to transport the kids to their various activities. Our oldest son recently got his driver’s license and drives a used compact car, while our three younger children are still too young to drive.
Here is a breakdown of our vehicles and their average cost for maintenance and insurance:
1. Husband’s sedan – $800 for maintenance, $1,200 for insurance
2. Wife’s SUV – $1,000 for maintenance, $1,300 for insurance
3. Oldest son’s compact car – $600 for maintenance, $1,500 for insurance
4. Family minivan – $900 for maintenance, $1,400 for insurance
5. Teenage daughter’s car – $700 for maintenance, $1,600 for insurance
6. Family truck – $1,100 for maintenance, $1,200 for insurance
When it comes to insurance coverage, it’s important to consider not only the cost but also the level of protection each policy offers. We opted for comprehensive coverage on all of our vehicles to ensure that we are fully protected in the event of an accident.
In addition to the standard coverage options, there are several other factors to consider when shopping for car insurance. Here are eight sometimes forgotten issues that can impact your coverage and how to deal with them:
1. Teenage drivers – Adding a teenager to your insurance policy can significantly increase your premiums. To offset this cost, consider enrolling your teen in a safe driving course to qualify for a discount.
2. Multi-car discounts – Many insurance companies offer discounts for insuring multiple vehicles under the same policy. Be sure to inquire about these savings when obtaining quotes.
3. Low mileage discounts – If you don’t drive your car often, you may be eligible for a low mileage discount. Be prepared to provide proof of your mileage to qualify for this discount.
4. Credit score impact – Your credit score can have a significant impact on your insurance rates. Maintaining a good credit score can help you secure lower premiums.
5. Bundle policies – Consider bundling your auto insurance with other insurance policies, such as home or life insurance, to save money on your premiums.
6. Deductible options – Choosing a higher deductible can lower your insurance premiums, but be sure to set aside enough money to cover the deductible in the event of a claim.
7. Roadside assistance – Adding roadside assistance to your policy can provide peace of mind in case of a breakdown or emergency. Be sure to inquire about this option when obtaining quotes.
8. Review your coverage annually – It’s important to review your insurance coverage annually to ensure that you have adequate protection for your changing needs. Be sure to update your policy as necessary to avoid any gaps in coverage.
In conclusion, finding cheap car insurance in Orange Cove, CA, is possible with a little research and comparison shopping. By comparing quotes from the best companies, considering your family’s unique vehicle needs, and addressing potential insurance issues, you can secure affordable coverage that meets your needs. With the right policy in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that your family is protected on the road.
* This article was originally published here