Average Arizona Auto Insurance Rate
In 2005 Arizona was ranked as the 13th among the 50 states for the highest average automobile insurance rate. At slightly over 1 grand, average Arizona car insurance rates tower over states like North Carolina and South Dakota which sit comfortably in the high forties with averages in the 700s. Residents in the states of Wisconsin and Iowa should count themselves lucky as their states rank 49th and 50th respectively. Both of these states have premiums in the 600s, a number that is depressingly low to those in Arizona. However, before you decide to pack up and move to another state, a look on the bright side will show that 12 unfortunate states have rates that are higher than Arizona. New Jersey has the highest automobile insurance rates. Its average premium is over $1300. The District of Columbia, which is not technically a state, was about $10 more than New Jersey’s steep total.
But that was several years ago. Since 2005 the average cost of car insurance has gone up and down. Although 2008 was a fairly low year, 2009 is one of the higher years. This makes it even more important to find a good price on car insurance.
So far in 2009, Arizona’s average is slightly over $1,800 which is about $50 over the national average. All in all, Arizona isn’t doing too bad.
Can Rates Really Be Compared Evenly?
It is difficult to compare rates because of the many different kinds of coverage. People with more thorough automobile insurance will obviously have higher rates than those at the bare minimum required. However, when looking at the nation as a whole rates can be compared from state to state with more accuracy than on a person level.
Is It Really Worthwhile to Compare?
In this economy, every dollar counts. By changing your insurance policy you could easily pocket $50-100 and even more. Companies all have their own individual deals and it is important that you find one for yourself. No single company offers the best price in a particular policy for all age brackets, which makes it impossible to take friend’s advice and get the best deal.
It is easier than ever to sift through insurance companies online and customize a policy to fit your needs. Limits and deductibles are both customizable, which allow you to get a perfect fit. Don’t settle when an even lower insurance policy might be one mouse click away.
What Discounts Can I Get?
Many factors go into a car insurance quote. Some, such as driver characteristics and location, are pretty much unchangeable. Although it is possible to move from Arizona to a cheaper neighbor state, this would most likely make it necessary to find a new job and would just further complicate your life. Your driving record and your age also weigh heavily on the amount of insurance you will pay. When these characteristics change, it will be beneficial to get a new quote, but waiting for them to change is not an option.
So what factors can get you a discount? An older car with safety features will significantly lower your premiums. Younger drivers who tend to have the highest costs can join a family member’s policy to get a discounted rate. Keeping school grades up will also be helpful. Opting for a higher deductible can cut a chunk off of your premium. You may be able to get a discount if you use the same company for multiple kinds of insurance. Also, if you have used the same insurance company for a few years, you may qualify for a loyal customer discount. You can use your loyalty as a bargaining chip if they are not very helpful in reevaluating your insurance. Don’t be afraid to switch companies. You may be pleasantly surprised with the deals that you can find.
Don’t let the average Arizona car insurance rate for the state of Arizona scare you. Whether your current premium is above or below that average, it will be beneficial for you to get a few new quotes and check out other companies to see if you are paying too much for your car insurance.