When’s the last time you gave more than a second thought to your car or truck insurance? Did you know that there’s no harm in changing insurance carriers often? Actually, it can be a very good thing. Keep reading to see why!

Do you think about your auto insurance rates very often? Like many, you probably only consider your rates when it comes time to renew. You may be surprised to learn that auto insurance companies periodically raise insurance rates across the board.

So, you might have gotten the best deal for your insurance when you first bought your policy, but you could now be paying more than you thought for your auto coverage.

It’s a great idea to periodically call an independent insurance agency, they do all the work so you don’t have to. They’ll help you to re-shop your auto insurance rates at least once a year to see if you can get equal or even better coverage for less than what you’re now paying. (FYI, agencies like Hettler Insurance Agency in Lubbock, Texas, don’t charge you for their services, so having them shop around for you can only save you money. Changing insurance carriers from time to time can be good.) Plus, you may experience other situations that should trigger a re-shopping of your rates for auto insurance.

The following situations could affect your rates:

1. When you buy a new car.

When you buy a new car, have an independent insurance agent look at auto insurance rates at various companies. It’s smart to look at rates early in the car-shopping process to compare rates for the make and model of car or truck that you’re considering buying. Why? Because, you don’t want a big surprise when you finally choose the perfect car and find out that it’s going to cost you too much to insure.

* So, before you choose and buy a vehicle, have your insurance agency check rates with multiple insurance carrier companies.

2. Is your teenager about to start driving?

It’s time to explore insurance coverage rates. Some auto insurance companies offer very good rates for new teen drivers while others are much more expensive. Find out early on.

* A few months before your teenager takes to the highway, have your agent check the expected auto insurance prices. Your agent already knows which ones are reputable and dependable.

3. Accidents.

If a driver on your policy recently had an accident, your auto insurance company most likely increased your rates. Interesting fact, if you look at what other insurance carriers would charge you for auto insurance, you could find that you can get much lower rates, even after a car accident.

* So, if you or another driver in your family recently had an auto accident claim, it’s smart to check insurance rates with other companies in order to keep your premiums low.

4. Have your monthly mileage and driving habits changed?

If you change the amount of miles you’re driving your car, you should take the opportunity to check car insurance rates. Your current company might be willing to cut your rates. Your independent insurance agent can help you find out if you can save some money.

* There are insurance carriers that base your rates on how much you drive your car in a week, month, or year.

5. Has your car’s value decreased?

As your car get older, it’s smart to adjust the coverage on the car. Adjusting the value will reduce the amount of your auto insurance premium. You might have full coverage on a new car, but after a car is 3 or 4 years old, most auto insurers suggest that your reduce your coverage to save money on your auto insurance premiums.

* As the value of the car goes down, the amount of car insurance you pay should go down, too.

6. Any recent life changes?

Has household income decreased? Or, you get a divorce or get married. Or, Maybe you switch from full-time work to part-time work. Or, maybe you’ve recently retired.

* When there are periods of change, that’s an opportunity to evaluate how much money you’re paying for car insurance.

In summary

It’s possible to save over $500 a year just by comparing auto insurance companies. So, periodically contact your independent insurance agent and explore rates at various auto insurance companies. Compare them with the rates you’re paying currently. It feels good to put money back into your pocket when you can.