Finding Affordable Auto Insurance in NY
Just to give some background, I’ve had two at-fault accidents, one in 2023 and another in 2024, and I currently have 10 points on my driving record—those points are from 2022, over three years ago. I’m currently with Geico but am looking for recommendations for more affordable insurance options. Most of the major insurers I’ve contacted are quoting me exorbitant rates, around $8,000 to $12,000 a year, while I’m currently paying about $5,000 annually. I have minimal coverage and have taken a defensive driving course. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
Finding affordable auto insurance in New York, especially with your driving history, can be quite challenging. Here are a few suggestions that might help you find more budget-friendly options:
Shop Around: Continue to get quotes from various insurance companies. Sometimes smaller or lesser-known companies may offer better rates.
Consider Local Insurance Providers: Look into smaller, regional insurers that may offer competitive rates, especially for high-risk drivers.
Look into Usage-Based Insurance: Some companies offer discounts for low-mileage drivers or for those who demonstrate safe driving habits. Programs like Allstate’s Drivewise or Progressive’s Snapshot could be worth exploring.
Ask About Discounts: Make sure to inquire about any available discounts beyond the defensive driving course, such as bundling insurance policies, low-mileage discounts, or loyalty discounts.
Evaluate Your Coverage Needs: While you mentioned having the lowest coverage possible, double-check if you might be overpaying for certain aspects. Sometimes, adjusting your deductibles can also help lower premiums.
Check for State Programs: New York may have programs or initiatives designed to assist high-risk drivers, so researching state-specific options could lead to potential savings.
Consider Retaining a Broker: An insurance broker can help you navigate different policies and find coverage that fits your budget.
Online Comparison Tools: Websites like The Zebra, Gabi, or Policygenius allow you to compare rates from various insurers with ease.
It’s important to be cautious and make sure you’re not sacrificing necessary coverage for the sake of a lower premium. Good luck, and I hope you find a more affordable option!