Changing Your Zip Code Could Cost You Money on Auto Insurance Premiums

If you are thinking about moving then you need to do your homework. Changing your zip code can actually hurt your wallet and this is not about your rent but your auto insurance premium rates.
Most people think that changing their zip code is no big deal because they are not moving to another state but this is not true at all. Your zip code says a lot to your auto insurers. For example, just moving across town brings a new population area and crime rate.
One town may have a lot more car thefts and vandalism reports than another. If you live in a new zip code that has issues with car related crimes then you will pay more for your auto insurance premiums.
An example of this was when a man who owned a 2007 Honda Accord paid more than $400 less for his car insurance premiums than a man with the same car in a nearby zip code. It is a good idea for drivers to understand this because many people are shocked when they change zip codes and face the harsh truth.
It is important to do your homework before you move to a new place. Make sure to know the crime rate, how many acts of vandalism occur, how many cars are reported stolen each year, and how many auto insurance claims are typically filed. It is often better to live in a metro area than an urban one. This is due to the fact that auto insurance companies give more leeway because there are more auto accidents and people to absorb the costs of paying out the auto insurance claims.
Living in a rural area can be great for people who want low auto insurance premiums but you still to make sure that there is not a large presence of crime. Today, many cities are having to deal with the fact that their crime rates are increasing.
Times are tough and many people turn to criminal activities such as stealing cars as a way to make a quick buck. Sadly, it is drivers who have to suffer for this.
It is important to try to deal with more expensive auto insurance premiums if you do move to a new zip code. The first is to shop around for low car insurance premiums. The second is to reduce your risk to auto insurers. Consider buying a car alarm or anti-theft device. This will help to show your insurance company that you are taking steps to make your vehicle more secure so that it is not targeted by thieves.
You should make sure that your car is not left out in the open for a long time. Many people live in zip codes where there are a lot of space and cars get stolen because there are not a lot of people around. Make sure to take public transportation if you can and leave your car parked in your driveway if you can.
You should also try to buy a car that is safer and has good crash test ratings. If you can, before you move you should contact auto insurers and have them do a comparison of your current zip codes and others that you might want to live in. This will allow you to have all of the information that is necessary to move to an area that will not cost you a lot more for car insurance coverage. Make sure to plan ahead so that you can make the right choices. Being able to save a few hundred dollars a year in today’s economy can be a real life saver.