Smart Shopping: Insurance

WSVN -- Getting behind the wheel, buckling up and driving off in your car can cost you big when it comes to your auto insurance, but nowadays shopping around for a low quote is easier than you think.

Juan Barquero: "Usually, I shop around, check with Geico, Progressive, and which ever gives me a better rate, then that's who I go with."

Thanks to the Internet, you can get instant quotes from several companies.

Elizabeth Lacey: "It was very easy, and I was able to get different quotes and compare them, and then called once I was sure which one I wanted to go with."

But if you prefer meeting an insurance agent face-to-face...

Edson: "I'm really happy with Geico, and I would recommend it."

Try shopping with someone who will help you compare rates.

John Nigrelli: "When you come in, you're not just looking at one insurance company, you're looking at many. We give you the prices of a lot of different companies, and you get to compare, and you get to choose."

John Nigrelli from AAA says their agents will help you land the best quote.

John Nigrelli: "In many markets there's a difference of $400 or $500 a year."

To save big, he recommends getting combined coverage from one company.

John Nigrelli: "You can combine the automobile insurance with the homeowner's insurance and pay one time a year at a reduced discounted rate."

Next, consider your deductible.

John Nigrelli: "If you carry a larger deductible versus a smaller deductible, you can save quite a bit of money."

And keep a clean driving record.

John Nigrelli: "If your accident free and without tickets, you're going to get the best rate."

Reed Cowan: "Another money saving tip is for teens to take advantage of the driver's ed classes in the public school system and to keep up the good grades."

John Nigrelli: "If you are a good student, even a high school student, it's a very smart move to use the good student discount."

You do not have to be a AAA member to enjoy the benefits but joining can save you big.

John Nigrelli: "In fact, it helps if you are because many of our insurance companies will actually give you an additional discount, up to five percent."

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

AAA
7074 SW 117th Avenue
Miami, FL 33183
305-270-6450
www.aaa.com