As a senior driver, you want an auto insurance policy provider that caters to you. You’ve been a safe, responsible driver your whole life, you don’t get in accidents or moving infractions. You pay your premium on time, and you take all the necessary steps to be as safe as possible behind the wheel. Shouldn’t you receive a benefit for this? We think so. So, how do you go about finding an insurance premium and coverage provider as a senior? Consider these important aspects of choosing your policy.
The insurer: Do they cater to you?
Again, you want to save. You’re not driving every day, you’re safe on the road, you take required courses to keep premiums down, what more can you do? Go with an insurer like the Hartford, for example! Why?
- They cater policies to seniors. If you’re 50 or older, your rates are locked in for life after 60 days
- They offer discounts for anti-theft devices and other safety features
- You get discounts if you are a good driver, accident free, and don’t have any infractions
- Your policy rates are “vanishing” meaning they reduce the more time you are accident free and safe behind the wheel
This insurer specifically caters to seniors, and if you are an AARP member, even better! You want a premium and policy provider that reward you for your good work and safety behind the wheel. So, make sure you find an insurance provider that caters to you.
Acceptance rates
Another relevant factor in choosing your insurance policy and insurer, is going with an insurer that accepts senior drivers. Many companies don’t offer policies if you are a certain age, or if you don’t bundle. Some providers hike up rates to keep you from getting behind the wheel. So, you’re going to want to choose an insurance provider that doesn’t discriminate based on age. It happens with young drivers, but it also happens to seniors as you get older. Many companies think you’re dangerous, and distracted. So, they either won’t insure you, or they will, but for an absurd price. How do you know which companies to choose and which to avoid?
Shop around! There’s no other way to determine acceptance rates, premium rates, and understand what each insurer offers, if you don’t compare the policies and premiums you’re considering purchasing as a driver.
Discount offerings
Choose an insurer that offers discounts. As a senior, some discounts to be on the lookout for are
- Bundle policy discount (home, life, auto, retirement, etc.)
- Coverage rate drops for no accident and no moving infractions
- Discounts for safe drivers and those who complete driving courses
- Safe car discounts (back up cameras, lane warning detection, etc.)
- Senior discount rates (some companies which cater to seniors, will oftentimes offer lower rates based on their driving record and where they live)
Also look for companies that offer set rates after a certain number of years you’ve been covered. The longer you stay with an insurer, the cheaper your policy rates should be. So, make sure to inquire about these and other discounts available to seniors.
Satisfaction rating
Not only do you want a reliable company, but one that is highly rated by the customers they insure. Geico, Allstate, the Hartford, these are all reputable companies, and they offer excellent customer service. This is what you want to look for when the time comes to choose your insurance premium as a senior driver. The more coverage options they offer, the better their customer service, and the more options they offer for senior drivers, the better it is and the more likely it is you are going to want to consider these insurers when you’re deciding on your auto insurance policy.
You can’t get around the fact that you need to buy an auto insurance policy if you plan on driving. As a senior, you obviously want to be rewarded as a safe driver, and as a long-time customer with an insurance provider, you’re with. These are a few simple tips to help you choose the right insurance policy, and the right provider, for the savings you seek (and deserve) and to ensure you have the right levels of coverage based upon your state requirements and age bracket.
