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Eleven Money-Saving Auto Insurance Tips For Senior Drivers
By: 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.
About the Author:
Matt McWilliams is one of the co-founders of HometownQuotes.Com, an online insurance quotes web site. He is originally from Pinebluff, NC and attended Middle Tennessee State University in 2002. He is considered an expert in the field of online insurance shopping and finding new ways to help consumers save money on their insurance. For more information visit http://www.hometownquotes.com. |
