MINT HILL, NC – Q: I saw your column about the factors that impact your car insurance premium. What can I do to lower that cost?

A: There are a few easy ways to lower your car insurance premium. They include:

• Using one insurance company for multiple insurance policies. Combining the purchase of an auto policy with the purchase of a home policy, sometimes called bundling, can save you money.
• In some states, younger drivers are able to take driver safety courses that could lower your premium. 
• Check with your insurance company to see if they have a telematics program, like Drive Safe & Save™ from State Farm. These usage-based car insurance programs record the miles you drive and use that information to help determine your premium. The less your drive, the more you may lower your car insurance.
• Other discounts include those for good students, children no longer driving while away at college, insuring multiple vehicles, installing anti-theft devices, taking defensive driving courses, and accident-free driving. See your local agent for a full list of discounts.
• Ask whether your insurer offers a discount for paying the six-month term in advance. There could also be savings for having your monthly payments automatically deducted, but check whether this will incur a fee from your bank or credit card company.
• As always, it’s a good idea to talk to your agent about what policies are best for you and your situation.

Have further questions? I’d love to answer them! Feel free to call or text my office at (704) 526-0887 or visit us in person at 9539 Idlewild Road or online at MyMintHillAgent.com.