There are rules when it comes to finding cheap car insurance. Memorize them and save.

#1 Shop Around!

Always get at least three insurance quotes before you commit to a specific company. Rates vary and the difference could add up to hundreds of dollars!

#2 Get a Quote BEFORE You Buy the New Car

The car you choose will have a huge impact on your insurance rate. Most people know to stay away from the new, expensive and sporty models if you are looking for cheap car insurance. But even similar practical and safe cars can look very different under the insurance company “risk” microscope. So if you have a couple of cars in mind, give your insurance agent a call and get quotes for the different models.

#3 Hike Up the Deductible for Cheap Car Insurance

This is the quickest and most sure fire way to cut down on your car insurance costs. According to National Association of Insurance Carriers (NAIC), going from a $250 to a $1000 deductible can save you up to 40% on your policy.

#4 Don’t Over-Insure Older Cars

If you’re paying for comprehensive and collision coverage on an older car, you’re likely paying more for insurance than the car is actually worth.

The NAIC suggests the following formula to determine if you’re overpaying:

Add what you’re paying for comprehensive and collision coverage, multiply it by ten. If your car is worth less than that then cut, cut, cut.

#5 Care About Your Credit

Not paying your bills on time could cost you big time if you're trying to get cheap car insurance. Recent studies have shown a correlation between credit history and a driver’s level of risk to insurance companies. So it’s no surprise that bad credit could mean up to 50% higher car insurance rates.

#6 Drive Less, Pay Less

A lot of insurance companies will give a discount to drivers who have a lower than average annual mileage. So if you have a short commute, participate in a car pool or do anything else that translates into less miles – a discount may be in store for you.

#7 Need Cheap Car Insurance? Ask About Group Insurance Discounts

You could be part of an organization that gets discounts and not even know it! Members of certain organizations and professions (teachers, veterans, engineers) are often given group discounts. Give your company a call and ask for a list of the groups they offer discounts to.

#8 Special Discounts

Special safety features on your car, good grades on your young driver’s report card and even reaching senior citizen status could land you a sizable car insurance discount.

#9 Keep Cover

Even if it’s short, a lapse in your coverage could disqualify you from discounts you'd qualify for otherwise. Don’t skip premium payments and if you're switching insurers, don’t quit your old carrier before the new one takes effect.

#10 Pay Up Front

Breaking your premium into monthly installments can get expensive. Most carriers charge an administrative fee for those who pay in installments, so save money by paying your premium annually or every six months.