Eleven Money-Saving Auto Insurance Tips For Senior DriversBy Matt McWilliams
Like all drivers, senior citizens (or as I like to call them “seasoned citizens”) want to get the best rates on their auto insurance policies. What they may not be aware of is that older drivers may present a higher risk than other drivers, usually leading to higher auto insurance rates.
Following a few simple tips and taking these measures will ensure that you are getting the lowest rates possible on your auto insurance policy.
1. Avoid more Accidents, Pay Close Attention at Intersections. Auto accidents involving seniors often occur at intersections. Make sure to look ahead if you plan to quickly change lanes after an intersection. Pay attention to protected left turn lanes with their own arrows, and always keep your tires pointed straight ahead when stopped, so that a rear-end accident doesn't push you into oncoming traffic.
2. Follow the flow of traffic, Drive at the at or near the speed limit. Driving too slowly can be just as dangerous as speeding, especially when entering or exiting interstates or freeways. It can also trigger dangerous "road rage" in less patient drivers. You don’t have to be Mario Andretti, but keeping to the right and following the flow of traffic is the safest bet.
3. Many violations include failure to yield right-of-way, improper turning or incorrect lane changes, so keep current on the traffic laws relating to new traffic designs.
4. Sit high enough in your seat so that you can see at least 10 feet in front of your car, advises the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. If your car seat does not adjust to allow this, add a cushion. This will make it easier to see pedestrians and bike riders, and reduce problems from oncoming headlight glare at night.
5. Do not wear sunglasses or tinted glasses when driving at night. For many older drivers, night vision is reduced, so safety dictates not driving at twilight or after dark.
6. Make sure you learn how to operate a New Car. Things like Anti-lock brakes, for example operate differently in slippery situations. If you have never driven a car with anti-lock brakes, sure to get training on proper use.
7. Senior drivers can refresh their skills and knowledge -- and get a discount on auto insurance in many states -- by taking a refresher driving course, such as the eight-hour "55 Alive" course offered by AARP. More than two-thirds of states mandate auto insurance policy discounts for such courses, and many insurance companies offer the discounts voluntarily.
8. Look for cars with rear-view mirrors that automatically dim and filter out headlight glare.
9. Air bag technology has become more advanced, with sensors that deploy air bags based on the weight of the occupant, reducing air-bag-related injuries. Some new cars also have side air bags in the seats or door frame that offer better protection.
10. Consider fit and comfort in your new car. Seat belts that comfortably fit over your shoulder and low on your lap will keep you safer. Automatic transmission, power steering and power brakes require less physical effort.
11. Last but definitely not least, Check to see which companies offer specific ‘Senior Discounts’ While shopping around for the best auto insurance rates is important, which insurance company you choose might depend on how they treat senior drivers. You'll get their best rates if you're healthy and drive a safe, modern vehicle.
|
Where Drivers Pay the Most -- And Least -- For Car Insurance
Average auto insurance costs can vary from one major U.S. city to another by as much as nearly 200 percent, with Detroit leading the pack in premiums,
Car Insurance Ontario CA: Target Up Insurance is Expanding
ONTARIO, Calif., Sept. 4, 2014 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Car Insurance Ontario CA - Car insurance is a necessity in California. While many may argue they do not need insurance because they are safe drivers, car insurance is not to protect them. Car insurance protects the consumer from other drivers. Those who live in Ontario, Calif., will be pleased to know that a 30 plus year veteran of the ...
8th Sep 2001, 17:33
Yeah! I just bought mine (KH non turbo). I just think the comfort level should be 6 or 7 out of 10 however, can't complaint cos it's a sports car and. It's fast alright but mine needs a few mods.
New Program from Liberty Mutual Insurance Play Positive? Renews Spirit of Sportsmanship in Youth Sports
BOSTON, Sept. 8, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- With schools back in session and fall sports practices across the country underway, Liberty Mutual Insurance looks to shine a new light on the importance of sportsmanship in youth sports. Liberty Mutual today introduces the Play Positive? Pledge, an opportunity for youth sports teams and organizations to earn $2,500 for pledging their commitment to ...
Why you should get health, accident insurance
MANILA, Philippines ? Getting health and accident insurance isn?t very popular in the country because most Filipinos do not prioritize preparing for illnesses or accidents.
Best Used Cars for Teens
Suitable Choices for First-Time Drivers
New Bern body shop loves the classics
Tony Wolter, left, and Jim Boyd together operate S.T. Restoration, specializing in Corvettes and special projects. They have been invited to bring a 1996 Accura to a large car show held in Las Vegas in November.
This industry doesn?t want GM?s ?almost? driverless car to catch on
Despite all their troubles of late, GM is touting the planned release of ?super cruise control,? the next (first?) step toward a truly driverless car for the average consumer.
Your insurance claim denied?
When insurance works like it's supposed to, it can be a little like the movie where the sheriff rides into town and rescues you from the bad guys.
U.S. Attorney: Lufkin man pleads guilty to wire mail fraud in 'soggy Bugatti' case
A Lufkin man on Tuesday admitted to intentionally driving a million-dollar sports car into a saltwater marsh to collect on an insurance policy.
|
