Auto insurance can also be costly, as your premiums impose yet another bill on your budget amid an unpredictable economy. That’s why you should leave no stone unturned when considering ways to reduce your rates. Fortunately, modern vehicles may offer many cost-saving features.
The Impact of Safety Features 
Your auto insurance costs are typically calculated after a thorough analysis by your carrier. Insurers must carefully consider various aspects of your situation, including your location, driving record and coverage limits. Additionally, your vehicle’s specifications may play a significant role in determining your rates. While make, model and year also matter, safety features can be particularly impactful, as they may reduce your chance of having to file a claim and make insurers consider you a less risky customer.
Understanding Cost-saving Features
Several types of automobile features might have a beneficial impact on your insurance rates. Consider the following:
- Advanced driving-assistance systems (ADAS)—Many modern vehicles include these systems, which can intervene while you’re behind the wheel and potentially help you avoid catastrophic accidents. For instance, ADAS may alert you if a vehicle or object is in your blind spot. Alternatively, emergency braking can help stop or at least slow down your vehicle before a collision, reducing the severity of an accident or even preventing it altogether.
- Anti-theft features—Vehicle theft remains a prevalent concern for motorists and insurance carriers throughout the United States. While comprehensive coverage can address these incidents, you may enjoy paying less if your automobile has anti-theft features. These devices, such as alarms and GPS tracking systems, can make it more difficult to steal a vehicle and help law enforcement recover it, potentially deterring criminals.
- Telematics—Usage-based auto insurance is a rising trend in the industry and may help you achieve better rates. These systems work by tracking your driving history and habits. For example, telematics may provide carriers with data regarding where and when you drive, as well as if you speed or tend to accelerate and brake aggressively. By displaying safe and responsible behavior while behind the wheel, telematics can help insurers feel more at ease covering you.
Learn More
Contact Dixon Blackwood Insurance Agency Inc. in Sumter, South Carolina, today to learn more or get a free auto insurance quote.
This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.