Research done by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics shows the cost of car insurance increased by 22.6% in April compared to the last year (2023). So, you’re right to feel you’re paying too much for auto insurance VA. The good news is that understanding factors that affect car insurance rates can help you reduce how much you pay. One of these factors is driving record. If you’re like most other people, you might not understand how your driving habits and records affect your premiums. Read on to uncover the impact of driving records on auto insurance rates in VA.
How Do Insurance Companies Calculate Premiums?
Car insurance companies in Virginia assess risk to determine the premiums. They consider factors such as age, gender, location, and vehicle type. They also check an applicant’s driving record to predict future driving behaviors. So, if you have a history of safe driving, this can be an indication of being a low-risk client, leading to lower premiums. Conversely, if you have a history of traffic violations and accidents, the insurance company might classify you as a high-risk client, leading to higher rates.
Benefits of a Cleaning Driving Record
Having no record of accidents, traffic offenses, or DUIs can greatly reduce what you pay for vehicle insurance. Auto insurance companies classify drivers who have clean driving records as low-risk customers. They predict that these drivers are less likely to file claims in the future. This leads to reduced charges for such drivers.
For instance, a driver who had no violations or accidents for the last five years is likely to pay much less in terms of insurance compared to a driver who has more than one violation or was at fault in an accident. Some insurers in Virginia offer “good driver” discounts that further lower premiums for policyholders without any blemish on their records. So, when searching for auto insurance VA, look for companies that offer such discounts to cut costs.
How to Maintain a Clean Driving Record
To maintain a clean driving record, there is a need for consistent and cautious driving habits. Always follow traffic laws like speed limits and traffic signals. Avoid driving distractions such as using your phone while driving, and do not drive while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. Additionally, regular maintenance of your vehicle can also prevent accidents caused by mechanical breakdowns.
Common mistakes leading to poor driving history encompass aggressive and reckless driving as well as speeding through red lights. Likewise, failure to indicate before making turns, skipping seat belts during drives and sleep-driving may lead to offenses and crashes too. Taking a defensive driving class can also help, as it can increase awareness of surroundings.
Conclusion
When searching for auto insurance VA it can be helpful to learn how your driving record will affect your premiums. Look for a company that can guide you more on factors that affect auto insurance rates. The goal is to make changes like improving your driving habits to lower your rates.
