A recent industry study has found that the average car insurance cost in the United States is about $1,416, making it one of the most expensive elements of owning and operating a vehicle. Fortunately, you can take proactive measures to lower your auto insurance premiums. Here are 6 ways to lower your auto insurance premium:

1. Bundle Up

Insurance companies tend to offer discounts when you bundle policies. When you have more than one type of policy with your insurer, you may receive a multi-policy discount, allowing you to cut your auto insurance premiums. For example, you can buy your home insurance, auto insurance, life insurance, and boat insurance from the same insurance company. Besides discounts, having multiple policies with one insurer makes life easier because you don't have to deal with different insurance companies.

2. Automate Your Insurance Payment Process

Insurance-related paperwork is generally difficult to manage because of issues such as mail pile-up and misplaced insurance bills.  Such issues can delay your payments, leading to penalties or even policy cancellation. Automating your insurance bill payment process ensures that you don't deal with snail mail and are able to pay your bills at convenient intervals. Find out whether your insurer offers ways to pay your coverage bills automatically.

3. Increase Your Deductible

Depending on your auto insurance policy, you may have to pay a specific amount of dollars out-of-pocket before your insurer covers a claim. Auto insurers typically use this out-of-pocket amount, or deductible, to set auto insurance premiums. Hence, make sure to choose a high deductible.

4. Maintain a Clean Driving Record

While it may be difficult to avoid accidents altogether, if you're able to maintain an accident-free record, you may enjoy lower auto insurance premiums. For example, your auto insurer may offer a discount if you've had no at-fault car accident for a specific number of years. One of the things you can do to reduce your risk of being involved in a car crash is to enroll in a defensive driving program. In fact, some auto insurers have discount programs for drivers who complete a defensive driving course.

5. Keep Your Car in Good Shape

If your car is in good condition, you may be able to avoid costly repairs and towing fees that could quickly add up. Ensure you follow the manufacturer's maintenance guidelines. For instance, check your tires monthly, and change the oil and the oil filters as per your car owner's manual.

6. Review Existing Coverage Limits

To determine whether or not you have sufficient coverage for your automobile, review your auto policies regularly. In general, your coverage limit should exceed your state's minimum coverage limit. To determine how much more extra coverage you should get, consider factors such as your budget and coverage needs. This will ensure you're not overpaying for auto insurance premium or buying unnecessary coverage, and therefore, reduce your auto insurance premiums. These are some of the ways to lower auto insurance premiums. For the car insurance policy to fit your needs, contact Bell Black Insurance today! We serve all insurance needs for those in Idaho Falls, Island Park, Driggs, Victor, Swan Valley, Ashton, and the neighboring communities in Idaho, as well as Jackson and Star Valley in Wyoming.