Some drivers that don’t drive very much at all complain about paying the same rates that people who drive a lot pay. After all, low-mileage drivers are, logically, less of a risk. Insurance companies are beginning to experiment with devices based on the OnStar system that allows drivers who spend more time at home than on the road to pay a bit less. The same is true for drivers with safe records.
Recording Behavior
These devices record the amount of driving an insurance holder does and, if it’s below a certain amount, those drivers may get a discount. Their habits could also play into this discount. Of course, this brings up the issue of privacy and whether drivers would rather pay the full amount or have their driving habits tracked in exchange for a discount. The program is currently available to drivers in Texas and, if you’re shopping around for insurance, it may be something that you want to consider to lower your rates.
Driving Averages
According to a press release, some insurers are offering discounts of up to 30% for drivers that have safe habits and that drive very little. Most Americans drive around 12,000 miles every year, according to the same press release. Cutting down on commuting by taking the bus or other forms of transportation, therefore, might result in significant savings for drivers beyond what they save on the miles they put on their cars.
Maintenance
One thing drivers should keep in mind if they decide to cut back is that maintenance still needs to be done on vehicles on the regular schedule if you’re leaving your vehicle to sit. Your oil has to be changed at certain intervals and your brakes and other vital systems have to be checked. Still, cutting down on the amount of driving you do can bring with it significant savings, especially with these new programs, provided you’re comfortable with the tracking element of them.
Insurance companies can sometimes be difficult about paying out claims, even if they’re clearly owed to their clients. If you have trouble with an insurance company, consider contacting a vehicle accident lawyer.
